On the 12th floor of the Bugak Hall, there is a professor's office. Usually, it is difficult to readily approach a professor's office. But this office is home to a foreigner who welcomes her students with calm music and a bright smile.
This is Professor Robin Debacker, who is on her eighth year of living in Korea.
She says she always leaves her office door open, hoping that students will visit and see her without feeling pressured.
Next to her desk hangs a large frame holding a collage of students whom she has taught. This simply reveals Professor Robin Debacker's belief that every single one of her students is precious.

What drove her to leave the faraway country of America to come to Korea and serve as a professor at Kookmin University?
We interviewed the Kookmin member, Professor Robin Debacker.

1. For what reason did you come to Korea?
   
   Together with my family, I came to Korea in the year 2000. My husband's job has to do with the Peace Ambassador, so we ended up coming to Seoul. As for me, I dream of peace. That is why I enjoy telling Korean students the difference between their culture and other cultures, as well as endowing them with a more understanding perspective. I believe this will help spread peace.
   
   
2. Why did you choose to work at Kookmin University?
   
   Actually, I was fortunate to even find a job at a university because I faced great competition with countless people. When I came to Korea, I applied for a job at the Ewha Woman's University, Hanyang University, and Kookmin University.
   
   Among these universities, Kookmin University gave me the best impression. More than anything, Kookmin's campus is located in the midst of beautiful nature, and the school provided enough space and time for the professors to establish their own creative classes. That is why I believed Kookmin University was the best university for a foreign professor to teach in. During my stay here, I was able to actively interact with other professors and learn tips from them on how to improve my teaching. Also, I was able to gain a better understanding on the cultures of other people.
   
   
3. How do you think Kookmin University compares to American universities?
   
   I think there is a big difference between American universities and Korean universities. Korean university students have a much greater respect for the professors, which I think is a strong merit.
   
   Looking at facilities, most Korean universities are modernized. However, the classes are usually conducted in one-way lectures where the professors talk while students listen and take down notes. In this sense, it is true that the classes lack creativity.
   
   In the US, most classes are two-way courses where professors ask questions to students and have a conversation with them to solve the problem.
   
   
4. What did you feel while teaching students at Kookmin?
   
   I enjoy teaching students. Even in class, I try hard to bring them to smiles so that they don't feel animosity towards the English language. The more I think about it, the more I realize how students put in too much preparation in order to use English. And I want to tell them that they don't need any more lessons on grammar. So in my class, I always try to make them speak. Naturally, my class ends up being a little bit louder than other classes. Nevertheless, we always try to enjoy our conversations together.
   
   
5. Korean students are very interested in learning English. What advice can you give them?
   
   I always tell my students, "Go out and find a foreigner! And start talking to them!"
   I'm sure that they would be afraid and hesitant at first. Nevertheless, as most of my students tell me, "Once you overcome your fear, it becomes a very enjoyable experience."
   
   "When reading an English book, choose something fun and easy"
   
   If you try to read a book that's too difficult, you will lose interest. But if you start with fun and easy novels, you have better chances of reaching the TOEIC and TOEFL scores that you've always wanted to achieve. Of course, you need to put in the effort as well.
   
   
6. What is your goal at Kookmin University?
   
   I like to write about the experiences and stories that my students have shared during class. I already have a book that includes stories from more than 200 students. These books give me immense doses of inspiration. I want to make more of these books in the future. Also, I want to spread a more effective way of teaching English to all English educators. This is the goal that I wish to achieve at Kookmin University with all of you.