Extra credit project for international students——CUI ZAN

1. Experiences in an English-Language Class at a Korean University

The English-language courses at Korean universities are completely different from the way I used to study. The curriculum is designed not only to improve language proficiency but also to focus on developing students’ critical thinking and communication skills. In class, we often engage in group discussions and give presentations, which creates a highly interactive learning environment. This stands in stark contrast to the passive knowledge acquisition I experienced while studying in China.

2. Adjusting to Life in Korea

When I first arrived in Korea, I was filled with curiosity but also felt a bit overwhelmed. The Korean language was entirely unfamiliar to me. On my first trip to a convenience store, I couldn’t understand the cashier’s questions, so I could only smile and nod, ending up buying a bunch of items I didn’t even need. Taking the bus was another adventure; there were times I went in the wrong direction and had to ride for a long time to get back on the right track. Although these early experiences were somewhat embarrassing, they taught me a lot. Gradually, I realized that with basic Korean phrases and body language, I could manage most daily interactions and even receive some friendly smiles and assistance.

During the adaptation process, I was especially grateful for the cultural exchange activities provided by the university. For instance, during a Korean traditional culture experience event, I made Korean paper crafts with my own hands, tried on a hanbok, and gained a deeper understanding of Korea’s rich cultural heritage. These activities not only helped me integrate into life in Korea more quickly but also allowed me to meet like-minded friends. Although it was difficult at first, I came to see these small challenges in life as opportunities for growth. Looking back now, the days of taking the wrong bus and "buying the wrong things" have become some of my most cherished memories of studying abroad.

3. Learning Wiki Technology

Learning Wiki technology has been an independent journey full of exploration. Throughout this process, I primarily relied on my own efforts to complete various editing and publishing tasks. Although I did not have any group discussions or teamwork experiences, this allowed me to focus more on mastering the technology and solving problems independently. While I encountered many new technical challenges, with the meticulous guidance of the professor and assistance from fellow students, I managed to overcome these difficulties. This process of working independently not only improved my ability to use the Wiki platform but also taught me how to proactively seek resources and support. Through this experience, I realized that independent thinking and effective communication are equally essential parts of learning.

4. Suggestions for Improving International Student Experiences

To be honest, during my early days in Korea, I often felt like a "lost bird." While the university did provide some support, such as basic Korean language courses and living guides, many practical problems required me to figure things out on my own. For example, how to get a SIM card, find accommodation, or understand Korea's administrative systems. I spent a lot of time "trial and error" in the beginning, and without the help of warm-hearted classmates, I might still not fully understand the steps for renewing a visa.

I believe that Korean language classes could be more closely aligned with everyday life, teaching commonly used phrases or even taking students to real-life scenarios for practice, which would make learning much more effective. Additionally, psychological support is extremely important. Having a dedicated psychological counseling service for international students would be especially helpful for those who are new and still adapting to their new environment. Thankfully, our university offers such services, which significantly reduces the difficulties international students face while studying in Korea.By improving these areas, I believe future international students will have an even smoother and more enjoyable study-abroad experience. 

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