How Korean Pop Culture Influenced My Decision to Study Abroad

Through these five questions we explore why Ashley chose to study abroad, how they got there, what it was like, and the impact of their global experience.

STUDY ABROAD ALUMNI STORY

Our Diversity Abroad alumni have been able to prepare, engage, and reflect on their international experiences. Upon their return we asked them questions for them to share how they did all of the above. Through these five questions we explore why Ashley chose to study abroad, how they got there, what it was like, and the impact of their global experience.

Why did you decide to study abroad?

I decided to study abroad because I've always dreamed of going to Korea ever since I was exposed to its pop culture in high school by a friend. I chose to study abroad so that I could practice my linguistic skills and get to experience the average life of a young adult in Korea to compare it to the American life I was used to. My influence stemmed from my interest in a Korean band, CNBLUE. I wanted to understand their language and attend concerts in their home country, so getting to do that and see how my language skills helped me make friends and understand what they were saying made me realize that I love studying the Asian region.

How did you pay for your study abroad experience?

I was able to afford study abroad through the scholarships I received and financial aid. I was able to receive 6 scholarships that funded my trip. The scholarships I was awarded were the Gilman International Scholarship, UCLA EAP Global Community Scholarship, Kramer Scholarship, Overseas Ambassador Scholarship, Duttenhaver and Dan Wise Scholarship, and the Promise Award.

What is one thing you wish you would have known about studying abroad before you left?

I wish I would have known more about public transportation and taken the subway instead of a taxi when I arrived to have saved more money. I also wish I would have known how to buy concert tickets on Korean websites earlier rather than half-way though my study abroad program. My advice to students thinking about going abroad is to do a thorough research on your country and watch Youtube videos to know what you can do and where to go, so that it will be easier once you arrive. Also, exchange some money before you go (ahead of time, not last minute like I had done).

Did you experience any discrimination abroad because of your race, sex, religion, sexual orientation or a physical disability? If so, what did you learn from the experience?

I identify myself as Guatemalan-American, and was proud to educate Koreans on the diverse population of America. I didn't face much discrimination, but when I did, it was mostly because I was a foreigner. South Korea is a very homogenous society, so I understand how uncomfortable or unknown it can be to the older generation of Korea. What I've learned from that experience is just to not say anything and just brush it off. Its a cultural thing to not question or talk back to an elder, so I can't do either of those. If anything, when I meet elder people, I try to speak with them and let them know about me and my identity, which thankfully, many admired.

How has studying abroad benefited you, personally and academically?

Personally, my time in Korea helped me experience the social life of an average young adult. Compared to America, there is so much freedom and different places you can go to. You can plan random trips anywhere because everything is accessible due to its advanced public transportation. It gave me insight as to how Korean people think and act, as well as how it seeps into their daily life and routines. Academically, I was able to improve my reading and writing skills in Korean, which were not that great before. I can read at a faster pace and understand more than I used to in conversations. I also took a Korean writing course and practiced my language skills everyday, which helped me retain what I learned.

Overall, it was an experience I needed to help me understand what I had learned before taking this trip. If you can do it, go for it! Studying abroad helped me realize that I chose the right career path and major. It made me reaffirm my career aspirations and helped me grow as an individual.

Want to continue to engage after you’ve returned from your study abroad experience? Attend the Global Student Leadership Conference, Volunteer at the Diversity Abroad Conference, or share your story with us! Email community@diversityabroad.com with questions.

Author: Ashley Beteta