Extra Credit Blog 2: International Student - BAI SHIQI

Studying abroad is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. For many Chinese students in South Korea, it is a time of self-discovery, cultural exchange, and academic growth. Based on my personal experience, I would like to share my thoughts on life in South Korea, the benefits of using Wikipedia for learning, and my impressions of the professional courses, professors, and classmates here.

My Experience Taking English Courses in South Korea

Taking English courses in South Korea is a unique experience. In general, whether the courses are taught in English or Korean, classes tend to focus on discussions and teamwork, with professors emphasizing interaction and practical skills. I’ve taken a variety of English courses, including writing, speaking, and required academic English courses. These courses have not only improved my academic English proficiency but also helped me build practical communication skills. Furthermore, the classes are composed of students from different countries and cultural backgrounds, providing many opportunities for cross-cultural exchange. For example, my courses each semester usually include students from China, Japan, Korea, and Mongolia. Through communication and collaboration with them, I’ve formed many friendships.

That said, language and cultural differences can present challenges. Since the university does not require you to submit proof of your English proficiency upon admission, there can be language issues in class to varying degrees. To fully understand the content delivered by the professor, reviewing the material ahead of time and revisiting it after class is necessary. However, this hasn’t been a major problem for me. One key takeaway is not to be shy; we are all students, and it is normal to have shortcomings. Therefore, it’s important to speak up and try as much as possible. For example, in group discussions, don’t hesitate to participate just because you’re afraid others might think your language skills are not up to par or that you have an accent. If you do that, your English will never improve.

Adapting to Life in South Korea

Adapting to life in South Korea takes time, but there are many ways to quickly adjust. First, learning some basic Korean will help you with daily communication, especially when shopping, ordering food at restaurants, or taking public transportation. Second, understanding Korean culture and etiquette—such as respecting elders and maintaining quiet in public spaces—can make interactions smoother. Additionally, participating in school activities, joining student clubs, or making local friends can expand your social circle and deepen your understanding of Korean culture. For Chinese students, adapting to life in South Korea is relatively easy due to the cultural similarities between the two countries, especially considering our proximity.

Learning Wiki-Tech

Learning Wiki technology can greatly enhance your ability to access and manage information. First, becoming familiar with how to edit and create wiki pages is a fundamental skill that can be acquired through online tutorials or by participating in wiki projects. Additionally, understanding the organization and categorization of wiki content helps you search for information more effectively and contribute content. Collaboration skills are equally important, as wiki platforms are usually maintained by teams. For international students, this is also an opportunity to improve academic writing skills and expand knowledge.

Academic Life: Professors, Classmates, and Professional Courses

The academic experience in South Korea is both challenging and rewarding. Korean universities are known for their rigorous courses and focus on critical thinking. Professors often encourage students to express their views and participate in discussions. At first, I felt a bit anxious, but this approach has greatly contributed to my academic growth. The warmth and enthusiasm of the professors have also been a key factor in my motivation to learn.

The interaction with classmates has also been memorable. Many students come from different cultural backgrounds, including other international students. Group projects have allowed me to appreciate diverse perspectives and adapt to different working styles. For example, collaborating with Korean classmates has helped me understand their high regard for detail and structure, while my Chinese background has offered a unique perspective to discussions.

Korean universities place a strong emphasis on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world issues. For example, in my courses, we frequently analyze real-world case studies, which has helped me understand the practical application of theoretical concepts in global issues.

Suggestions to Improve the International Student Experience

1. Provide more language learning resources, such as free Korean language courses and academic writing support for English.

2. Organize more activities that foster interaction between international students and local students, such as cultural festivals and language exchange programs.

3. Create dedicated tutoring groups for international students, helping them with issues related to visas, housing, and course selection as they adjust to their new environment.

4. Enhance the multilingual information on the university website, as it is currently lacking in detailed guides and FAQs, and improve multilingual accessibility.

5. Establish an international student community through social media or dedicated platforms to facilitate communication and experience-sharing among students.

These suggestions can help international students better integrate into campus life and enhance their overall academic experience.

Conclusion

As a Chinese international student in South Korea, this experience has been a profound transformation for me. It has not only broadened my cultural and academic horizons but also taught me how to overcome challenges and become more adaptable. Though life abroad can be challenging at times, tools like Wikipedia and the rich academic environment make the journey incredibly rewarding.

As I move forward, I am grateful for the friendships, knowledge, and opportunities that this journey has brought me. These experiences will undoubtedly shape my future, both personally and professionally, as I look forward to building more connections and contributing to the increasingly globalized world.