International students experience excitement and adventure in a foreign land, but a study-abroad experience also brings challenges in many respects, such as finances, relationships, culture, and language. When international students begin life at an international school, they may have mixed emotions of apprehension and anticipation, with unfamiliarity sinking in as they face cultural differences. Studying abroad may bring future rewards and success; however, obstacles are also inevitable. The Granite Tower interviewed four international students at Korea University (KU) about the challenges they face living and studying abroad, how they have overcome them, and how they have adapted to cultural differences.
Kodirova Mavzuna (‘19, Russian Language and Literature)
After high school graduation, I immediately came to Korea. I was young, and it was my first time abroad, so it was difficult then. I had to learn everything, starting from the most basic, like buying goods and which products to use. The hardest part of cultural adaptation is learning the customs of the country, but being an Uzbek really helped since our culture is similar to Korea’s. It was very interesting and impressive that in Korea, professors treat the students, whereas in Uzbekistan, it is the opposite. The most surprising and difficult aspect of Korean culture was photography because the violation of portrait rights is quite serious in Korea.
Bea Minnie (‘20, Psychology)
Although Korea and China have cultural similarities, I realized that Korea has a unique and lively culture. I believe respecting the Korean culture helps me deal with culture shock. I learned Korean culture from books and from life and friends. My Korean friends are very tolerant. They bear with me when I misunderstand their culture. They and even my foreign friends, who have adapted well to Korean culture, patiently correct me. For example, in Chinese, honorific and non-honorific are similar, and recycling is not widespread in China. By respecting the culture of other countries, I can easily adapt to any changes.
Murzabekov Elaman (‘21, Mechanical Engineering)
As an international student, there are opportunities to experience new customs and culture; these expand our understanding of the things around us. I have been studying the Korean language for more than three years and I cannot say there were no hardships in familiarizing with the culture and environment. Everything was new – the country, food, and people. Familiarity with culture requires support against homesickness. Making friends helped me adapt to life in Korea, and cultural centres gave me opportunities to learn more about the culture. Adapting to this new environment has changed me in many ways and I was able to adjust successfully thanks to my parents’ financial and emotional support. My Kyrgyzstan friends recognize how much I have gained strength in decision-making.
Ava Jennings (‘21, International Studies)
Coming to Korea, I was unsure about my decision to study here, but I eventually decided this is the best decision for my future. However, dealing with xenophobia and being far from my family and friends are tougher than some people might realize. I have learned to cope with and appreciate the cultural differences here through making friends. Most of my friends are fellow foreigners who have also felt isolated and homesick. Acceptance is needed in dealing with loneliness at university as a stepping stone; hopefully my experiences will help me in my future after college as well as now.
