By Meg Rayner, Contributing Writer
From my high-rise apartment, I am treated to a stunning view of Hongdae — the vibrant nightlife hub of Seoul. The scene is illuminated by a kaleidoscope of neon lights that dance across the skyline, showcasing towering skyscrapers amidst a backdrop of natural beauty. Seoul is a city that never ceases to amaze me with its diverse scenery, where impressive tall buildings rise seamlessly from the foothills of surrounding mountains, creating a breathtaking blend of nature and urban culture. One of my favorite spots in this dynamic city is the Han River, which gracefully divides Seoul into its captivating upper and lower halves. This river holds a special significance for me, as I cherish the delightful memories of picnicking with friends while the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink.
I’ve forged countless lasting friendships during my time here, each one adding a unique layer of joy to my experience. The process of learning Korean has been an enriching journey for me, and I am thrilled to admit that I genuinely love the language now! Throughout high school, I faced challenges in language classes and often believed that mastering a second language was beyond my capability. However, I overlooked a crucial element in this journey — the desire to learn a second language was essential. With each passing day, I find myself acquiring more Korean vocabulary and phrases, and my language classes have significantly contributed to my progress. To be honest, I still often resort to nodding and smiling when someone speaks to me, but I am eagerly making strides in my learning!
For any students considering studying abroad in Seoul, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the plunge! Yonsei University, renowned as one of the top institutions in South Korea, offers an array of unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. I’ve had the thrill of attending several spirited sports games against their long-standing rivals, Korea University, where I witnessed the intense and passionate school spirit that Yonsei students embody. Their cheer squad is distinctly different from American cheer squads; they don elaborate school regalia and actively engage the entire crowd, leading everyone in enthusiastic chants and catchy songs throughout the game.
