Name of activity/programme/experience
Winter Exchange Programme under Korea University, applied under SMU’s Other External Programme.
What motivated you to participate in this programme/activity?
I first heard from my peers that this programme could allow me to clear a module under SMU’s Core Technology & Society basket. At the same time, I also wanted to experience Korean culture and student life. Since my schedule during the semester was packed with internships and classes, the three-week programme during the December holidays felt like the perfect window to do both.
Please describe your overall experience.
It was a little daunting at first because I realised the “trusted adult” in the situation was in fact myself. I had to deal with things like delayed flights and communication barriers on my own, but after a while I found a rhythm to life there - class in the morning, exploring different neighbourhoods in Seoul in the afternoon, and weekend trips further out of the city. Korea University also organised activities like a Lotte World day trip, a Judo class, and a seminar on K-culture, which made the experience even more fun.
In what ways did this experience add value to your SMU education and/or professional development?
It pushed me to be more independent and adaptable, especially when things didn’t go exactly as planned. It also broadened my cultural awareness and communication skills through interacting with people from different backgrounds. These experiences helped me develop a more global perspective that complements my learning at SMU.
Why Asia?
Asia felt like a meaningful place to study because there’s so much diversity and change happening within the region. Being in Korea also made me realise how much there is to learn from cultures that are geographically close to us, but still very different in their own ways.
What advice would you give to juniors or fellow students who are considering a similar experience?
SMU offers many different overseas options, from semester exchanges to short-term programmes, internships, and community service, so it’s worth exploring what fits your schedule and goals. I think some people assume they only get the “full exchange experience” if they go far away, but programmes within Asia can be just as meaningful with so much to learn from the countries around us.
