Smith-Ewha Summer Exchange Program
This is a little late, but I really want to share the amazing experience I had this summer in Seoul, South Korea thanks to Smith.
How I Got Involved
I had already known about the Smith-Ewha Exchange for a long time, it was actually one of the contributing factors in my decision to attend Smith. However, I hadn't really thought about it since arriving at Smith, as I didn't end up even studying Korean until the same year I applied to this program. I was, on the other hand, seriously thinking about studying in France (where I am now, I will eventually post about it!) and so I went to the study abroad fair, to look for more info on the Smith in Paris program. There I saw the booth for the Smith-Ewha Exchange and later I received information that there would be an info session later in the semester.
I attended the info session, not really thinking I was good enough in Korean to be accepted, mostly because I was curious. (Sidebar: I really recommend going to events, especially those in Wright Hall, because you never know what you'll discover.) When application season came (around February/March), I decided to apply and see what happened.
The Application Process
Before applying, it is important to note that you need a minimum 3.0 GPA and to have taken at least a year of Korean language studies. Also, there are limited positions and if you do not get in, you will be put on the waiting list.
Regarding the application itself, there are two different application processes and an extra mini-application if you want credit for the courses you take.
More info can be found Here
Paying for It
Through this exchange, the tuition and the application fees are completely waived, however you still have to pay for airfare, the housing and fieldtrip fees, and for meals and shopping. You will want to shop A LOT. If you are in need of financial assistance, you can apply for the International Experience Grant for additional funds.
Cool Things I got to do!
Go to the DMZ
Learn Korean
See SM Town, the museum for K-Pop Producing Company SM
Learn how to play Korean traditional instruments: the Gayageum, Changu, and Tanso
Go to two different amusement parks, Lotte World and Seoul Land
Experience Seoul Night Life
Photoshoot at Gwangjang Palace in Hanboks
Go to a Cat Cafe as well as a bunny cafe and meerkat cafe
Buy ALL the cute stationary and beauty products
Make amazing friends (that I'm still in touch with!)
and more!
P.S. I coded this post completely in HTML!