Embracing Cultural Exchange in South Korea

Read about Human Resource Management student Noor's experience taking part in a cultural exchange program.

The following article was written by Noor Ayn, a York University student pursuing Human Resources Management.

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine and, this past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in York University's GLBL 3581 study abroad course in South Korea. As a student majoring in human resource management at the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, I was excited to dive into a new culture and explore the course content on the politics of youth and old age in South Korea. Under the guidance of Professor Thomas Klassen, I was able to discover a level of independence I never knew I had. The experience enhanced my social skills and ability to navigate new situations.

From the moment I arrived in Seoul, I was captivated by the city's vibrant atmosphere. The bustling streets, colourful markets, and delicious street food all added to the excitement of studying abroad. I had the privilege of visiting several universities and interacting with South Korean students who welcomed my class with open arms. At Chung-Ang University, they gave us a tour of their campus and introduced us to some of the coolest activities in the city like photo booths, karaoke, and their favourite food spots. We connected over music and pop culture, making our conversations light-hearted and enjoyable. We also had discussions about how politics of age directly impact them, gaining valuable new perspectives.

Communicating in South Korea

Despite the language barrier, communication wasn't an issue, as some students were fluent in English, and others used translation apps to engage with us. Their willingness to step out of their comfort zones to connect with us was truly appreciated and made interactions even more memorable.

Visiting the Canadian embassy was a standout moment of the trip, where we engaged in discussions about South Korean-Canadian relations with representatives. I was impressed by their innovative approaches and passion for creating good international relations.

Exploring a rich cultural heritage

Aside from the academic aspect of the trip, I also had the chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of South Korea. From visiting ancient palaces and wearing traditional hanboks, to hiking in the picturesque trails, we got to immerse ourselves in the culture. There were also many opportunities to explore the shopping district Myeondong, as well as Starfield Mall, Hyundai Department Store, and Lotte Mart.

Many days were also spent roaming around the different museums in the city, such as the Seoul Museum of History and the War Memorial of Korea. Exploring these museums helped us gain a better understanding of the country's history in all its defeats and victories, as well as its impact on the world today.

Key takeaways after visiting South Korea

Studying abroad in South Korea was truly transformative, broadening my horizons and challenging me to think differently about global business practices. After three wonderful weeks, I returned home with a newfound appreciation for cultural diversity and a renewed sense of purpose in my studies. It put into perspective how lucky I am to live in a diverse place like Canada, surrounded by so many people with different cultural backgrounds. This experience has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate in different cultural societies and learn social skills that will better prepare me for my future career in human resources.

I highly recommend studying abroad to any student given the opportunity. It is an experience that will not only enhance your academic knowledge but also broaden your perspective on the world and your capabilities. I am grateful for the memories and lessons I gained during my time in South Korea, and I cannot wait for my next adventure abroad.