Embarking on a journey to study abroad in Korea is a dream I hold close to my heart, yet the prospect of the unknown leaves me feeling apprehensive. "Can I adapt to Korean life?", "Can I study all subjects in Korean and English?", "Can I live alone without the help of my parents?" Empathizing with foreign students, Kookmin University (KMU) provides extensive support in various immediate aspects, such as life, study, and visa issues. KMU's constant presence by my side, offering guidance and assistance, reminds me that I am not alone in this endeavor.

●Study:
<Classes for foreign students> KMU offers courses exclusively designed for foreign students. These encompass specialized classes tailored to foreign students, such as "Korean in Popular Culture" and "Korean Society and Culture." Additionally, there are foreign student sections available within general courses like "College English," "Media and Community," and "Communication & Discussion." These classes have provided me with a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the intricacies of Korean culture, history, and media. What is noteworthy about these courses is their availability in various languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean. Through these classes, I have not only expanded my understanding of Korea but have also formed friendships with individuals from around the world.

<Foreign Classmate Study Support program> Recognizing the challenges that international students encounter due to language and curriculum barriers, I wholeheartedly recommend the 'Foreign Classmate Study Support' program. During the previous semester, I participated in the program for my 'Business Statistics' course, which marked my initial exposure to the subject. Collaborating with a Korean classmate who possessed prior familiarity with the Korean high school curriculum enabled me to comprehend the lessons more swiftly, excel in examinations, and establish a new Korean friendship.

<Writing class> The College of General Education offers a writing class every semester to enhance students' writing proficiency in reports, presentations, and exams. The class options include ‘1:1 coaching’ and ‘Special Lectures’ with professors who aid in refining writing skills in both English and Korean. Furthermore, the course features a 'Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) writing class' aimed at assisting foreign students in improving their TOPIK II writing skills for better scores. Additionally, the Center for International Student Services (CISS) provides a free TOPIK class encompassing practice in all four skills (Writing, Speaking, Listening, Reading) two months prior to each TOPIK exam.

●Cultural Adaptation:
As an international student at KMU, I am grateful for the support provided by the CISS. They have been with me every step of the way, from my visa application to alien card registration, and are now assisting me with Korean culture adapting programs as a privilege.

<Sungkok Global Family> Last semester, I participated in this program recommended by my professor. Thanks to him, I did not miss such a precious opportunity to make international friends and learn more about Korea. My global family consisted of a teacher, a Korean student, and three international students. We were able to create our schedules to experience various aspects of K-culture such as wearing Hanbok, making Hanji, and visiting famous places like the Han River, Gyeongbokgung, and Lotte World. Notably, the experience fee was 100% supported by the CISS. Meeting my global family was a healing experience after stressful studying, where we could talk and give each other advice.

<Dream Dream program> The Dream Dream program within your department, supported by the CISS, is a great opportunity to get the most out of our major and college experience. By connecting with experienced seniors, we can gain insights and advice on a range of topics, from course selection to extracurricular activities to career planning.

● Employment support:
There is good news for foreign students who are striving to find a direction for the future but are uncertain about their interests or what steps to take to help with employment. Starting this semester, KMU and the CISS will introduce an additional class of the ‘Employment and Career Planning’ course exclusively for 1st- and 2nd-year foreign students. This course is worth 2 credits and is evaluated on a Pass or Non-Pass basis. Through this course, you can explore your career interests and learn about part-time work and extracurricular activities that can contribute to employment prospects after graduation. Moreover, since last June, the CISS has initiated the practice of posting job opportunities targeted at foreign students on the web 2-3 times a month, aiming to enhance our competitiveness in employment and career development (notifications sent via email and available on the CISS’s website).

In conclusion, KMU is always there for international Kookmin*In, supporting us in every way possible. Through a variety of classes and
activities, the university creates a supportive environment for students to overcome cultural and language barriers, enabling them to thrive both
academically and socially. This commitment to diversity and inclusivity positions KMU as a top choice for international students seeking a
quality education in South Korea.

Le Khanh Huyen
Guest Reporter
lekhanhhuyen290303@gmail.com