Exploring with Confidence #HogsAbroad in South Korea

Hi! My name is Tabitha Novotny, I am an Interdisciplinary Studies Senior with concentrations in Gender Studies, Communications, and Art History. In the beginning of 2021, I participated in the Spring/Summer UofA Exchange Program in Sinchang, South Korea at Soonchunhyang University. This is a short write up about my study abroad experience. 

Since Covid-19 was still a thing the one other student and I who were planning on going to Soonchunhyang had to go through a lot of obstacles in order to make this whole trip happen! We had to write a petition to our school to let us go, apply for visas, purchase our tickets ourselves, fill out papers for the Korean school, buy two international health insurances, and so much more including obtaining PCR tests within 72 hours of our flights. 

After we got to Korea we had to go through a PCR screening and immigration. Once we arrived at the dorms we had to quarantine for two weeks within our room only leaving to go to the restroom and pick up the food placed outside our doors, this was one of the roughest times of the trip, I felt alone, the culture shock was real, and I had felt like I had made a big mistake. Fortunately, after quarantine I was able to make many friends from other countries who also lived in the Global Village! My roommate for example was from Indonesia, while the rest of my suitemates were from China, USA, Columbia, and the Republic of Czech! The downsides; my international advisor wasn’t as helpful as I would have liked, he wasn’t great at communicating important information (we all made it though), the dorms were dirty (literal mold in our showers), we weren’t given the stipend we were initially promised, and we didn’t have any classes with Korean students because their classes were online (ours was in person with the other International students). Class wise, all but one of my classes were easy, I had taken; Calligraphy (taught in Korean), Global Society, Korean Entertainment, Korean Culture & Society, Korean Contemporary Film, Beginner Korean (taught in Korean - this was very difficult). Since we didn’t have classes with any Koreans we were given the option to participate in an online language exchange program with the Korean students of SCH in exchange for free dorm and partial reimbursement of our plane tickets.

Even though it was a rough start I enjoyed the freedom I had living in the dorms away from home, I was closer to classes, I was a 15 minute walk from town, and I had access to my friends constantly! As a bonus we also had access to a room full of fridges and a kitchen with four stove top burners to cook with, so some of my friends and I would get together to fry up some tofu, or make some spaghetti together.

After a few weeks our school informed us that we were allowed to travel to other towns in Korea as long as we filled out a travel form (to track where we are because of Covid.) This was one of the best parts of the trip! Because of the well-formed public transit system my friends and I were able to go to many places in Korea to enjoy the cultural sites, palaces, new foods, and drinks! We went to places such as Seoul (2.5 hours away from Sinchang), Itaewon, Hongdae, Cheonan, the island of Jeju, and more! Even though no festivals were going on we made the most of our trip such as; attending dance classes at OneMillionDanceStudio (a childhood dream of mine), singing at local Norebangs, Feeding bears in Cheonan, petting sheep at a café, wearing tradition Hanbok, and going to amusement parks such as Everland & Lotte World! 

Many Koreans (of a variety of ages) were kind to my friends and I, helping us with our baggage, giving us free gifts, and showing us around the surrounding area, I appreciated this kindness because it helped me explore with confidence! Even though not everyone speaks English you can get along just fine knowing the basic phrases such as hello (annyeonghaseyo), and thank you (gamsahapnida). I would suggest downloading apps such as KakaoTalk (it’s similar to snapchat), KakaoMetro, KakaoTaxi, Papago (language translating), GoogleTranslate.

Some of the best things I ate in Korea were tteokbokki, bimbibap, cold noodle soup, chocolate ice cream rolls, spicy noodles, and mudfish soup! The best drinks were peach soju, strawberry smoothies, and americanos. Personally, I’d love to come back again and explore more of Korea such as Busan, Daegu, and more!

I definitely recommend coming to Korea! Just make sure you learn some basic phrases, get a Tmoney card for the transportation, do your research about cultural dos and don’ts, see if you can stay a little after the semester ends, and have fun! I haven’t added much to my blog since arriving in Korea but I do have information about getting a visa, best plane tickets, and international phone plans already up there, here is a link if interested - https://tabbytravels.blogspot.com/

--
Interdisciplinary Studies major Tabitha Novotny spent the Spring 2021 term at Soonchunhyang University in South Korea with the help of our Office of Study Abroad Scholarship & the Kitt Rom Memorial Scholarship.

You can start planning your adventure abroad today! Dive in to our Explore page at https://studyabroad.uark.edu/explore/index.php, and start your program search at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/search/

Take Hold of Opportunities #StudyAbroadDay #HogsAbroad

For the Fall 2020 semester at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, it was an extremely difficult time to study abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic but I was still able to experience all you can eat kbbq, a train to Busan, cafe culture, and much more even with restrictions. I learned to take hold of opportunities because there's so much I am capable of if I can make it happen.

In Hangzhou in Summer 2018, I was able to practice my Chinese language skills in a much more intensive and useful environment on topics like ordering food, having normal conversations with college students, etc. I was able to try the spiciest thing I've had in my life with Hot Pot in Chengdu, Sichuan.

--Kelvin Feng, class of 2021 (Mathematical Sciences), Summer 2018 in China and Fall 2020 in South Korea

Learn more about Kelvin's Faculty-Led: Intensive Mandarin language & culture program.

Learn more about Kelvin's USAC program in South Korea.

You can start planning your adventure abroad today! Dive in to our Explore page at https://studyabroad.uark.edu/explore/index.php, and start your program search at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/search/

A Life Changing Experience #HogsAbroad in South Korea

Suwon

Everyone always says that study abroad is a life changing experience. I feel like I always hear people say the thing they regret not doing the most in college is studying abroad. I have always been independent, interested in other cultures, and like adventure. I figured studying abroad would be a good choice for me.

Initially, studying abroad is kind of scary. I chose the exchange program at Soonchunhyang University in South Korea. I did not know hardly any Korean before coming here, and I had also never been out of the United States or flown on a plane. This was a whole new experience for me. The culture in South Korea is significantly different than in the U.S. I was faced with many unexpected things when I first came here. People here do not say excuse me, and they don’t hold the door open for each other. Sometimes, people will stare at you if you’re obviously not Korean. Not in a bad way. They’re just curious.

South Korea also has a specific culture around age. If someone is older than you, you are supposed to show them respect. You’re always supposed to greet those you know in public, especially if they’re older. There is also reserved seating for the elderly and disabled on public transport. Confucianism has a large role in Korean society.

All this being said, I have some tips that I feel really helped me when I first came here. Tip #1: have some basic understanding of the culture you will be immersing yourself in on your study abroad adventure. It will help significantly when someone does something unexpected. Tip #2: be able to read the basic alphabet in the primary language of the country. It will help prevent you from getting lost (and help you when ordering food). Tip #3: be flexible, because things often do not go according to plan.

Being at the end of my study abroad experience now, I can definitely say it is life changing. It is not overrated or overhyped. All the societal norms seem like a lot to deal with, but it becomes easy to adjust once you have been in the country for a while. I would recommend a longer study abroad experience. I stayed for a semester, but I wish I would’ve stayed for a year. It takes a while to adjust. I thought I wouldn’t get homesick, but I did. Those graphs that they show you in study abroad seminars that show a typical student’s adjustment phases are actually pretty accurate. I feel like I have grown a lot as a person since coming to South Korea, and I know the things I have experienced here will help me to continue to grow in the future.

--
Senior International Studies major Meaghan Neely is spending the fall 2018 semester in South Korea with our U of A Exchange: Soonchunhyang University, Asan Chungnam program with the help of our Office of Study Abroad Scholarship.

Don't miss your opportunity to study or intern abroad! Start your search at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/search/

U of A Sophomore Awarded #FreemanAsia Scholarship #HogsAbroad in Japan

Photo Submitted. Analeigh Ulrich

Analeigh Ulrich, a University of Arkansas sophomore, has won a Freeman-ASIA award to study abroad in Japan this summer. The nationally competitive award supports undergraduates planning to study abroad in East or Southeast Asia.

The international studies and East Asian studies major will be part of two-month intensive Japanese language program at Osaka Gakuin University. Participants are allowed to use only limited English throughout the program's duration, so Ulrich is looking forward to making strides in her Japanese language ability.

Ulrich, who has wanted to spend time in Japan since childhood, was thrilled to learn she won the award, especially when she discovered it is nationally competitive.

"When I found out it is pretty competitive, I was extremely shocked and elated I won," she said. "I feel very grateful for the opportunities that have been given to me this year."

Ulrich plans to document her time in Japan on video. She has already been documenting the application process and her preparation for going abroad. When she returns to Fayetteville, she will record a reflection on her time in Asia. She plans to compile and share her videos with the Japanese Student Association, as well as other University of Arkansas students planning to seek study abroad opportunities in Asian countries.

The Freeman-ASIA program is managed by the Institute of International Education and is sponsored by the Freeman Foundation. The award program's goal is to increase first-hand exposure to and understanding of Asia, its peoples and its cultures.

This international scholarship program is both need- and merit-based and seeks students with interests in Asian languages and studies or whose overall academic and professional goals would benefit from experience in an Asian country. Award amounts are: up to $3,000 for summer, up to $5,000 for a semester/quarter and up to $7,000 for an academic year.
--
See all eligibility requirements, full application instructions and a list of deadlines for the Freeman-Asia Scholarship Program at http://www.iie.org/en/programs/freeman-asia.

Students interested in this and other study abroad opportunities should contact the Office of Study Abroad and International Exchange.

Studying Abroad in Asia Soon? Apply for the Freeman-Asia Scholarship! #HogsAbroad

Do you have financial need? Are you studying abroad in Asia soon? Apply for the Freeman Asia!

Freeman-ASIA scholarships are for American undergraduates to study abroad in one of 15 countries/regions in East and Southeast Asia.

Created to assist U.S. students with demonstrated financial need and limited prior experience in East and Southeast Asia, Freeman-ASIA will fund approximately 400 students over the next two academic years, with awards ranging from $3,000 per student for summer study and $5,000 per semester, to a maximum of $7,000 for a full year abroad.

Award recipients are required to share their experiences with their home campuses or communities to encourage study abroad by others and fulfill the program's goal of increasing understanding of Asia in the United States.

Extended Deadline for Fall/Year: April 18 for students and April 25 for advisers. The applications will close at 5:00pm eastern time on the day of the deadline.

 

See all eligibility requirements, full application instructions and a list of deadlines for the Freeman-Asia Scholarship Program at http://www.iie.org/en/programs/freeman-asia --  The Office of Study Abroad at the University of Arkansas is happy to help discuss this scholarship with any interested students, as well as advise those searching for the right study abroad opportunity to meet their personal and academic goals. Call us at (479) 575-7582 or email studyabr@uark.edu.

Let's Call those Hogs!! #WPS #HogsAbroad #IntlHogs16

This week we are teaching the new international exchange students all the important things about our campus and we had a little help from the experts....


The Hog Call is one of the most recognizable chants in all of sports. Here are the basics:

1. Raise your arms above your head during the The Hog Call on the "Wooo" and wiggle your fingers for a few seconds.
2. Next, bring both arms straight down with fists clinched while yelling, "Pig."
3. Then extend your right arm with the "Sooie."
4. Repeat these steps two more times and finish by yelling
5. "Razor-Backs" like this:
   Wooooooooo. Pig. Sooie!
   Wooooooooo. Pig. Sooie!
   Wooooooooo. Pig. Sooie! Razorbacks!

Be sure and say hi if you see them on campus and check out how you can go to their Universities on exchange at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/programs/exchange.php.

The End of Another Exchange Semester #HogsAbroad

May you always have walls for the winds, a roof for the rain, tea beside the fire,
laughter to cheer you, those you love near you,
and all your heart might desire.
~Irish Blessing

It's that time of year again, when we send our international exchange students back to their home universities. In an exchange, outbound U of A students are exchanged for incoming students from our partner institutions to spend one semester or an academic year at the host university. Exchange programs offer students a chance to discover how their disciplines actually live, breathe, and work in other languages and cultures. For a list of our exchange options, check out http://studyabroad.uark.edu/exchange.

6 Tips for Managing Dietary Restrictions While Abroad #HogsAbroad

Posted by Carla Sinclair

Article courtesy of DiversityAbroad.com

By Carla Sinclair

For anyone traveling to a different country, a unique set of challenges will surely arise. New surroundings, new customs, new people — you’ll be pushed to reach outside of your comfort zone in trying new things and getting adjusted. However, for some, a line has to be drawn when it comes to trying new things. For me and 7.3 million other Americans, meat won’t be on the menu when I travel across borders, and it doesn’t stop there: whether it be gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan, allergy-conscious or otherwise, some students face an even more unique (ahem, challenging) set of things to keep in mind when sitting down for dinner. Here are some tips on keeping to your dietary restrictions while studying abroad:

1. Do your research
   Some countries have historically veggie-based diets, and some do not. If you’re super concerned about avoiding meat, check out Scotland (don’t be fooled by haggis - it was voted the U.K.’s most vegetarian-friendly country), Southeast Asian countries, or other places that historically have less of a meat- and dairy-based diet. Websites like HappyCow.net and Chowhound.com are good for both preliminary and on-location research.
2. Be clear about your restrictions
   If your heart is set on Spain or France or another meat/cheese/gluten-happy culture, be sure to be clear about what you can and can’t eat. “Vegetarian” or “vegan” in some countries just means no red meat (ask my Abuela and that’s what she’ll tell you, while rolling her eyes), and “yo soy celiaco” might prove just as ambiguous to your server. Be concise about what you can and cannot eat — while keeping an easygoing attitude about it — and there’s a 95% chance they can accommodate you.
3. Stock up with snacks - and vocabulary
   Making sure you know your way around at least the basics of the dietary vernacular. Trying to communicate your restrictions will be all the harder if you’re speaking a completely different language, and could result in something dangerous. The word “allergy” is pretty similar in a lot of languages, but “pine nuts” or “raw fruit” aren’t. If you aren’t completely sure, keep a dictionary or travel guide with a language section on you. And, since better safe than sorry, keep some snacks on hand if you don’t want to risk it.
4. Cook for yourself
   In the 5% chance that the only restaurant available is serving pepperoni pizza and nutella sandwiches (Rome, I’m looking at you), what better way is there to really feel part of the country and cook yourself a meal with produce from a local supermercato? You’ll be able to pick what’s best for you and cook it to your liking, and maybe pretend you’re a chic local while you’re at it.
5. Be respectful
   Not everyone has your diet, or knows about it - be sure to keep a good attitude while explaining your restrictions. In many countries, refusing food is offensive. Be ready to provide an explanation without sounding like you’re on moral high ground, especially for by-choice vegetarians and vegans. Sometimes the best answer is just laughing it off and saying “I don’t like meat” and be ready to smile at the ensuing jokes and confusion.
6. Enjoy the food!
   Just because you’re avoiding a certain type of food, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the cuisine! There are options for everyone in every country, and just because you have to look a bit harder doesn’t mean it won’t be worth it. Whether it be finding the vegetarian empanada or quinoa soup while everyone else is eating beef, you’re still drinking in/eating up the atmosphere around you. Get adventurous!

- See more at: http://www.diversitynetwork.org/Diversity-Network-Blog/6-tips-for-managing-dietary-restrictions-while-abroad#sthash.vFXWxAXq.dpuf

6 Tips for Managing Dietary Restrictions While Abroad

Posted by Carla Sinclair on Wednesday, 25 November 2015 in Education Abroad

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For anyone travelling to a different country, a unique set of challenges will surely arise. New surroundings, new customs, new people — you’ll be pushed to reach outside of your comfort zone in trying new things and getting adjusted. However, for some, a line has to be drawn when it comes to trying new things. For me and 7.3 million other Americans, meat won’t be on the menu when I travel across borders, and it doesn’t stop there: whether it be gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan, allergy-conscious or otherwise, some students face an even more unique (ahem, challenging) set of things to keep in mind when sitting down for dinner. Here are some tips on keeping to your dietary restrictions while studying abroad:

1. Do your research
   Some countries have historically veggie-based diets, and some do not. If you’re super concerned about avoiding meat, check out Scotland (don’t be fooled by haggis - it was voted the U.K.’s most vegetarian-friendly country), Southeast Asian countries, or other places that historically have less of a meat- and dairy-based diet. Websites like HappyCow.net and Chowhound.com are good for both preliminary and on-location research.
2. Be clear about your restrictions
   If your heart is set on Spain or France or another meat/cheese/gluten-happy culture, be sure to be clear about what you can and can’t eat. “Vegetarian” or “vegan” in some countries just means no red meat (ask my Abuela and that’s what she’ll tell you, while rolling her eyes), and “yo soy celiaco” might prove just as ambiguous to your server. Be concise about what you can and cannot eat — while keeping an easygoing attitude about it — and there’s a 95% chance they can accommodate you.
3. Stock up with snacks - and vocabulary
   Making sure you know your way around at least the basics of the dietary vernacular. Trying to communicate your restrictions will be all the harder if you’re speaking a completely different language, and could result in something dangerous. The word “allergy” is pretty similar in a lot of languages, but “pine nuts” or “raw fruit” aren’t. If you aren’t completely sure, keep a dictionary or travel guide with a language section on you. And, since better safe than sorry, keep some snacks on hand if you don’t want to risk it.
4. Cook for yourself
   In the 5% chance that the only restaurant available is serving pepperoni pizza and nutella sandwiches (Rome, I’m looking at you), what better way is there to really feel part of the country and cook yourself a meal with produce from a local supermercato? You’ll be able to pick what’s best for you and cook it to your liking, and maybe pretend you’re a chic local while you’re at it.
5. Be respectful
   Not everyone has your diet, or knows about it - be sure to keep a good attitude while explaining your restrictions. In many countries, refusing food is offensive. Be ready to provide an explanation without sounding like you’re on moral high ground, especially for by-choice vegetarians and vegans. Sometimes the best answer is just laughing it off and saying “I don’t like meat” and be ready to smile at the ensuing jokes and confusion.
6. Enjoy the food!
   Just because you’re avoiding a certain type of food, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the cuisine! There are options for everyone in every country, and just because you have to look a bit harder doesn’t mean it won’t be worth it. Whether it be finding the vegetarian empanada or quinoa soup while everyone else is eating beef, you’re still drinking in/eating up the atmosphere around you. Get adventurous!

- See more at: http://www.diversitynetwork.org/Diversity-Network-Blog/6-tips-for-managing-dietary-restrictions-while-abroad#sthash.vFXWxAXq.dpuf