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Student of the Month (이달의 유학생)

27
(January 2025) Chen Zhongyang (Department of Global Convergence) 신규게시글

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? Applying for a dormitory has been a bit difficult so far. Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? Kangwon National University is a very special place for me. It's where I can gain knowledge and work on self-improvement. The university has excellent educational resources and a team of professional professors who help me dive deeper into my studies and build my skills. It’s also a fantastic social platform where I can meet friends and classmates from different regions. Plus, the variety of club activities on campus is meaningful and helps me better understand Korean culture. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? I want to improve my Korean skills so I can communicate more smoothly with locals. At the same time, I aim to complete my thesis successfully and graduate without any issues. Q4. What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying in Korea? Focus on learning the language well and make sure to respect the local culture and customs. Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? I’ve started to enjoy playing soccer with people here. After playing, we often eat together or hang out, and I really like that. Q6. Did you have any meaningful or fun experiences observing the cultural differences between Korea and Colombia? One thing I’ve noticed is how polite people are in Korea. For example, juniors bow to their seniors as a formal way of showing respect, which feels very meaningful. Another thing is how much emphasis Koreans place on Chuseok. It feels similar to how we celebrate the Lunar New Year in China, with many restaurants and businesses closing so people can go home and spend time with their families.
- 26
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2025.03.17
- 조회수43
25
(Decemer 2024) Carlos Mario Melendez Medina (Department of International Trade)

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? One of my biggest challenges while living in Korea has been learning the Korean language. My master’s program is conducted in English, so I don’t need Korean for academic purposes. However, it quickly became clear that Korean is essential for daily life, whether it’s communicating with locals, navigating public services, or simply engaging with the culture on a deeper level. It was particularly challenging to understand and adapt to situations where people didn’t speak English, such as at local markets, restaurants, or even in transportation. These moments made me realize how much easier and more fulfilling life in Korea would be if I could communicate in the language. Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? Kangwon National University honestly feels like my second home. From the moment I arrived, it’s been a place where I’ve felt welcomed and supported. I’ve made so many amazing friends here, and those friendships have really helped me adjust to life in Korea and feel like I belong. What I love about KNU is how much it has to offer outside of academics. There are so many programs, clubs, and festivals that make student life exciting and fun. I’ve had the chance to experience things I never would have back home—like attending festivals full of music, food, and performances, or joining activities that let me connect with students from all over the world. These moments have created incredible memories that I’ll carry with me forever. KNU isn’t just a university to me; it’s where I’ve grown as a person, explored new opportunities, and found a place that truly feels like a second family. It’s played such a big role in shaping my time in Korea, and I’m so grateful for everything it’s given me. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? The countdown has definitely started, I'm in my third semester now, which means I only have one left! My main goal is to graduate successfully and finish my program strong. At the same time, I want to focus on improving my Korean language skills. Even though my classes are in English, being better at Korean would make everyday life so much easier and help me connect more with people and the culture. Q4. What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying in Korea? If you’re thinking about studying in Korea, here’s my advice! First, try to learn a little Korean before coming, it doesn’t have to be perfect, but knowing some basics like greetings or how to order food can make a big difference. Once you’re here, join a university club or group. It’s a great way to make friends, meet new people, and really immerse yourself in campus life. Also, if possible, connect with a foreign student who’s already living in Korea before you arrive. They can give you tips, share their experiences, and help you understand what to expect. Adjusting to a new culture can feel overwhelming at first, but having someone guide you through the basics, like transportation or navigating the university system, can make things much easier. Most importantly, stay open-minded and enjoy the experience—it’s a unique opportunity to learn and grow! Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? One new habit I’ve developed while staying in Korea is taking off my shoes or slippers before going inside a house. This is such a normal part of life here, but it was a big change for me because, in Colombia, we don’t have this habit. At first, I would sometimes forget, but now it’s become second nature, and I actually really like it. It makes the house feel cleaner and cozier. It’s one of those little cultural differences that has stuck with me and changed how I think about my daily routines. Q6. Did you have any meaningful or fun experiences observing the cultural differences between Korea and Colombia? Yes, I had a meaningful experience observing cultural differences during a camp I attended with Korean people for four days. When we arrived, I noticed that the bathroom was a large open room with many showers. Curious, I asked if everyone showered together there, and they said yes. This was a big surprise to me because in my country, Colombia, it’s not common to have shared shower spaces like this. At first, I was a little embarrassed but later I got used to it.
- 24
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2025.02.10
- 조회수178
23
(Novemer 2024) Farhana Binti Haslan Farouk (Department of Computer Science and Engineering)

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? Living in Korea has definitely taught me to be self-reliant, even with little things, like struggling to open a stubborn jar of tomato sauce, haha! Although I came prepared to live far from family and friends, the reality of making new friends and finding my place here has been a journey. I really miss Malaysian food, even though I enjoy Korean dishes. And of course, there’s the language challenge, since most of my classes are in Korean, I’m always working to keep my skills sharp. It’s been a mix of new experiences and small challenges, but each one has made this journey feel worthwhile. And honestly, I still can’t get used to the Korean winters! It’s so cold and gloomy, with hardly any sunshine. Even with all the layers, the chill still feels new every time. But I guess that’s all part of the experience, learning to adjust not just to a new culture and language, but even to a whole different climate! Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? KNU means so much to me! It’s a big part of my youth and my 20s that I’ll always remember. Coming here was my first experience living away from home, and it’s where I’ve started to figure out what it means to be independent. KNU is not just a place for studying, but it’s where I’m making memories, learning from amazing professors, and enjoying the little things that make KNU so special to me. It is my youth. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? I feel like I’m already checking off a lot of things on my 2024 goal list! This year, I really hope to build more confidence in myself and get a clearer idea of what’s next after graduation. I want to finish my junior year well, too. But I also know that focusing on the present is just as important as planning for the future, so I’m excited to keep growing and just enjoy the journey along the way! Q4. What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying in Korea? I bet a lot of people have tons of worries when thinking about studying in Korea, especially with the language being so different from what you're used to. But honestly, that's the exciting part! It might be tough at first, but it's definitely not impossible. Korea has such a unique culture that’s deeply rooted in its history, and there’s so much to learn from the people here, especially their hardworking mindset and the respect they have for one another. What stands out to me is how much people here value education and the effort universities put into providing quality learning experiences, something I've felt at KNU, where I’ve been able to grow both academically and personally. Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? Since moving to Korea, I’ve developed a bit of a habit! I’m always on the search for events and activities to join. Whether it's online or through word of mouth, I love keeping myself busy and trying new things! I also got really into volunteering events because it’s such a meaningful way to connect with the local people here. The best part? In Korea, it's so easy to get around to go to events, thanks to the amazing transport system, which is something I can't quite get in Malaysia! As a result, my schedule is basically packed from the moment I wake up! Sometimes it feels like I’ve overbooked myself, but honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. It’s all part of the fun and adventure of living in Korea!
- 22
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.12.23
- 조회수629
21
(October 2024) Gani Bezalel Yunana (Department of Mechatronics Engineering)

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? Language at first was my biggest challenge and is still a challenge. However, as a student without scholarship another big challenge for me is finances. Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? KNU is home to me. It is place where I feel comfortable but also a place where I’ve seen growth in many aspects of my life. So, to me KNU is a place I will dread leaving. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? This is my third year in school and before I know it, I would be graduating in a minute. So, my goal is to figure out my next step from here. I want to be able to prepare for my final year project and exams and even for the journey ahead of that. But I also want to enjoy every moment of my school days. Q4. What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying in Korea? Most especially for undergraduate students Korean is a must. If you want to go places in Korea, learn Korean. Do this and thank me later. Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? I began taking pictures after I came to Korea. I never knew I would enjoy traveling too until I tasted the freedom to do so here.
- 20
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.11.18
- 조회수177
19
(Sepember 2024) Reski Hanesty Izi (Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering)

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? The biggest challenges while living in Korea has been adapting to new culture environment. Surviving to find halal food and place for worship in public places is so difficult that it overwhelmed me. Differences in language of course also made me feel challenged because I had to understand the lectures in high educational Korean vocabularies as well as managing academic responsibilities. With high motivation and eagerness to improve language skill and study hard with patient, the experiences have greatly gave me huge impact to develop my personal growth and perspective to find solution Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? For me, KNU is a place where I grew up and a place where I learned, full of joys and sorrows with unforgettable memories. KNU and the people in it are witnesses as well as support systems and second parents who accompany me in my process to achieve my dreams. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? I hope this year I could upgrade my language skill, complete my third-year credit very well, and get more advantage of new experiences a head. Q4. What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying in Korea? To students who are interested in studying in Korea, it is better to start looking for information about what majors you are interested in, learn Korean culture and its language. Although our campus has available course in English, I think it is good to have smooth communication while living in Korea. Learn Korean environment, observe and try to go to someplace to adapt with Korean culture and Korean people. Because learning a language is learning a culture, in other word, when you close to the culture you have opportunity to use Korean language appropriately, and improve your Korean language skill. Be mindful of environment that you want to live in including living expenses, transportation, daily necessities. And finally, it is important to be proactive to have good relationship with local and other international friends too. It helps you to build good network, communication skill or even to share your concern and get new prospective Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? While staying in Korea, I developed my new life habits to become accustomed to walking everywhere, improved my cooking skills because I love cooking for myself, had the opportunity to travel around Korea. Sometimes I made short videos for my lasting memories in my leisure time. And then, I also love to join extracurricular activities at the Indonesian embassy to practice Indonesian traditional dances, to balance my academic and non-academic life.
- 18
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.10.18
- 조회수270
17
(August 2024) Mehdi Syed Ejaz Hussain (Department of Biological Environment)

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? The biggest challenge I faced is the language or the communication problem. I encourage aspiring students to learn a little bit of the Korean language before coming here it would help them a lot. Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? KNU holds a very special place in my life as it brought back my learning energy, developed my new skills that will help me throughout my life, and especially KNU brought back my peace of mind as I explored a lot of places, met many amazing people and experienced this beautiful culture in a very short period. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? Ummm being a research student, my primary goal is to be recognized as a distinguished researcher in my field this year. I aspire to publish some innovative research that can truly make a difference in the lives of many people around the world. I believe that through my work, I can address significant challenges and provide valuable insights that can help others. My commitment to this goal drives me to work diligently, ensuring that my findings contribute positively to society. Q4. What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying in Korea? I would like to appreciate the students who have planned to study in Korea as they have chosen the amazing place to pursue their higher studies which will help them to find the best of themselves. My advice to those students is to learn some basic Korean language as it will help them to learn to adapt quickly and experience the amazing time here in Korea. Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? While staying in Korea, I have developed new habits and hobbies that have greatly enriched my experience. The stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenic views have inspired me to explore various locations more frequently, fostering a sense of tranquility and relaxation. I have taken up hiking, which not only allows me to connect with nature but also emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and mental well-being. This focus on outdoor activities has significantly contributed to my overall health, providing a fulfilling balance between exploration and self-care.
- 16
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.09.23
- 조회수201
15
(July 2024) Kevin Troy Chua (Department of Accounting)

Q1. What do you consider your biggest challenges while living in Korea? Adjusting to life in Korea presented a significant challenge for me, particularly in mastering the language. Over time, however, this hurdle has diminished as I've enjoyed spending time with Korean friends and consistently engaging in language programs offered by KNU. Through these experiences, my understanding and fluency have steadily improved, making the language less daunting with each passing day. Q2. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? KNU is also my own “KNU” – Kevin’s beloved Nurturing University. This esteemed institution has not only enriched me academically but has also been instrumental in shaping my personal growth. It has revealed to me the extent of my capabilities and the heights I can reach. Moreover, KNU has provided me with invaluable opportunities in the field of accounting research, leading to the publication of three papers this year alone. I am deeply grateful for the profound impact KNU has had on both my academic journey and my personal development. Q3. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? This year, I look forward to completing all three parts of my dissertation and contributing further to the accounting literature through additional publications. Alongside these academic pursuits, I aim to cherish more moments with friends and continue exploring the enriching experiences Korea has to offer. Q4. What advice would you give to students interested in studying in Korea? Studying abroad comes with its share of hardships and challenges, yet dedicating yourself wholeheartedly to your endeavors, coupled with perseverance and unwavering commitment, opens doors to achievements you never thought possible. Embracing the Korean language, immersing yourself in its rich culture, and forging new friendships will undoubtedly enrich your academic journey in Korea, making it a truly fulfilling experience. Q5. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? Living in Korea has sparked my passion for coffee! It seems everyone here shares a deep appreciation for coffee, and I've wholeheartedly embraced that culture. I've developed a particular fondness for Iced Americano, which now serves as my go-to pick-me-up on sleepy days—a ritual I never imagined before coming here. Additionally, my time in Korea has allowed me to explore stunning local destinations, such as the picturesque city of Chuncheon, enriching my experience with unforgettable memories of its beauty.
- 14
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.09.03
- 조회수226
13
(June 2024) Anneke (Department of Applied Animal Science)

Q1. Could you tell us what kind of place or meaning KNU holds in your life? Kangwon National University holds a special place in my life as a center of learning and growth. It has provided me with quality education, excellent facilities and technology, and a diverse community. KNU has broadened my cultural understanding, helped me form lasting friendships, and fostered resilience. Overall, it has been a transformative experience shaping my future. Q2. What is your goal, or what would you like to achieve this year, hopefully? This year, my main goal is to complete my research successfully as a Ph.D. student. I’m dedicated to advancing my academic work and contributing to my field through impactful publications. By achieving success in my research, I aim to make significant contributions to my academic field and pave the way for future opportunities in academia or industry. Q3. What new habits or hobbies have you developed while staying in Korea? While staying in Korea, I’ve had the opportunity to explore various aspects of the culture and lifestyle. Although I haven’t ventured into new hobbies yet, I’m open to discovering new interests as I continue my journey in Korea.
- 12
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.08.01
- 조회수215
11
(May 2024) Qayumov Mehrubon (Department of International Trade)

1. Please briefly introduce yourself. Hello! I am Mehrubon Qayumov but mostly known as ‘Rahim’ in KNU. I am currently doing a second Master, under the Global Korea Scholarship in Korea. 2. Why did you choose KNU for your studies? Instead of saying I chose KNU, I believe destiny chose it for me. I had applied to different universities under the GKS program before, but nothing seemed right during the preparation. It was not until I decided to pursue a degree at KNU that things seemed to fall perfectly in place. 3. To whom would you recommend KNU? I would recommend KNU to those who want to have the best of both worlds. If you're the type to do a lot of reflection then the beautiful sceneries and nature in the city of Chuncheon will offer that healing. However, on days when you want to be immersed in a concrete jungle, then Seoul is just around. 4. What has been the most memorable experience during your university life? Some of my most memorable experiences while being a KNU student were taking part in activities organized by OIA and can’t name them because I took part in almost all activities. Secondly making international friends through football and spending time in a healthy way. Lastly, the KNU shared volunteering links where I participated in the Chuncheon Taekwondo International Championship which made me meet athletes from all over the World. 5. What are your plans after graduation? Academically, I aim to leverage the knowledge and skills gained during my master's program to contribute meaningfully to the field of international trade. I intend to continue my academic journey by pursuing a Ph.D. or engaging in further research initiatives focused on areas such as trade policy, global supply chains, or sustainable development. Professionally, I am keen to pursue opportunities that allow me to apply my expertise in international trade to real-world contexts. Whether in the public sector, private industry, or non-profit organizations, I am eager to work on projects that involve cross-border trade, market analysis, trade negotiations, or international business development. 6. Any heartfelt advice for students aspiring to study in Korea? I am sure this has been said by previous students of the months but I will back them up and insist on learning the Korean language before coming, at least the basics. I also recommend double-checking with your major’s department about graduation conditions. Last but not least, contacting professors in advance so that choosing an advisor and a thesis topic if you must write one, becomes easier. 7. Finally, please describe Kangwon National University in 5 words. Colorful, welcoming, peaceful, youthful, and innovative.
- 10
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.07.11
- 조회수257
9
(April 2024) Yin Wei (Department of Korean Language & Literature)

1. What was the most challenging aspect of living in Korea? Answer: The most challenging aspect of living in Korea for a year was definitely managing interpersonal relationships. Leaving familiar surroundings and living alone in a foreign country made me miss home. I felt very lonely because I didn't have any friends to share my worries with as academic stress built up. 2. What does Kangwon National University mean to you in your life? Answer: How should I put this? As I mentioned earlier, after completing my master's degree at Kangwon National University, I found a fulfilling job in China, and the experience of studying abroad allowed me to pursue my dreams. During my doctoral program in the Department of Korean Language and Literature, I received a lot of support from my advisor, professors, senior students, and teaching assistants. This support gave me the courage to overcome academic challenges. My resilience grew, and I developed a passion for academic research. I remember watching the Korean drama "Secret Garden" before. In many ways, Kangwon National University has become my own Secret Garden, a place that nurtures my dreams and happiness. 3. Do you have any goals or things you want to achieve in 2024? Yes, by the end of 2024, I will graduate from my current program. During my time as a student, I have set various goals. My most clear goal is to successfully complete my major courses with good grades and submit academic papers. Additionally, I plan to actively participate in campus activities and create my happiest memories of student life. Not only do I want to participate in activities, but I also want to actively involved in operating booths during events. So, if you see a booth I'm operating at an event, please be sure to stop by. 4. What advice would you like to give to friends dreaming of studying abroad in Korea? Answer: Studying in Korea is not as daunting as it may seem. The application process is simple. However, for a smooth experience, it's advisable to learn some Korean before arriving. Additionally, researching various aspects such as the university you wish to attend, the cost of living in the city where the university is located, transportation options, and other pertinent information beforehand can be very beneficial. 5. Do you have any new hobbies or habits you've developed since coming to Korea? After coming to Korea, I developed a newfound love for swimming. In my hometown, which is inland, I never had the opportunity to swim. However, upon enrolling at Kangwon National University, I had the chance to learn to swim for free through the Health 300 program offered at the Baekryeong Sports Center on campus. Thanks to the excellent instruction provided by the instructors, I now enjoy swimming.
- 8
- 작성자국제교류처
- 작성일2024.06.05
- 조회수288

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