Extra credit project： Experiences in an English-Language Class at a Korean University ----XU KEYING

    As an international student, studying and living in Korea has been a challenging and fun journey. In the process, I not only attended English and Korean classes and learned practical Wiki skills, but also gradually adapted to the Korean way of life.

    When I first arrived in Korea, the first thing I encountered was the English course. Since my English proficiency wasn’t particularly strong, I chose a basic English course to strengthen my language foundation. The course covered various aspects such as grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking, and the teacher used a variety of practical teaching methods to help us improve.

    In class, I met classmates from different countries, and we communicated in English, learning from each other. Sometimes, the teacher organized group discussions or role-playing activities. Although these activities made me feel a bit nervous at first, I gradually realized that they were excellent opportunities to improve my speaking and listening skills.

    As my English improved, I started to challenge myself by attending more advanced English courses, such as cultural English or advanced English writing. These courses not only provided me with more professional knowledge but also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of foreign cultures and social customs.

    When I first arrived in Korea, everything felt unfamiliar to me. The food, transportation, and shopping methods in Korea were vastly different from my previous experiences. However, over time, I gradually adapted to the local lifestyle.

    In terms of food, I started trying various Korean dishes, such as kimchi and Korean barbecue. Although I wasn’t used to these flavors at first, I gradually found them to be quite delicious. I also learned how to prepare some simple Korean dishes, which not only enriched my meals but also gave me a deeper understanding of Korean food culture.

    As for transportation, I initially found Korea’s subway and bus systems confusing. However, through continuous attempts and exploration, I eventually learned how to use these modes of transportation and navigate routes with the help of Korean navigation apps. Now, I can easily get around the city with confidence.

    This semester, I gradually became familiar with Wikipedia. At first, I felt a bit confused about this course and didn’t quite understand its purpose. However, as the course progressed, I started to realize the power of Wiki technology.Through my studies, I learned skills such as how to create and edit Wiki pages, how to manage a Wiki community, and how to use Wiki for collaboration.

For international students who are about to come to Korea, the first thing you need to do is to keep an open mind. When facing a new environment and culture, you may encounter many challenges and difficulties. However, as long as you remain open-minded and are willing to try and explore, you will surely adapt to and integrate into this new environment.

You can participate in school clubs, volunteer activities, or international student exchange programs. These are great opportunities to meet more friends and build connections.Moreover, universities offer a wide range of courses and resources that we can choose and explore based on our interests and needs. At the same time, it’s important to communicate frequently with teachers and classmates, seeking their help and advice when needed.Finally, the most important thing is to maintain a positive mindset.

    My experiences studying and living in Korea have been incredibly rewarding. Not only have I improved my Korean and English skills, but I have also gradually adapted to Korean culture and lifestyle. This journey has been a valuable opportunity for personal growth, and I hope every international student can cherish their time in Korea, work hard, and grow through the experience.