Matthew SZEKELY

Student of Murdoch University, Australia
Exchange to Yonsei University, Korea

South Korea is a land rich in history both old and new, a world full of culture, a place of delicious and unique food. And it was at one of the best schools in South Korea where I was fortunate enough to attend on my exchange. I left my home with a few goals determined to achieve: I wanted to broaden my knowledge and understanding of Asia, take advantage of higher level Chinese classes offered at Yonsei, learn a third language and explore a potential life overseas.

Thanks to the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards, I had more than enough money to survive comfortably in Korea as well as afford a trip to Hong Kong and attend an internship in Shanghai.

I studied at Yonsei University where there is a sense of pride throughout the school. If you go to Yonsei, you are considered one of the best. The quality of students amazed me as I got to know them. I felt passion and determination to extend myself and become a top student like my fellow peers. My classes were taught in different languages, including English, Chinese and Korean. Yonsei’s campus, facilities and quality of teachers were amazing.

Every day was an exciting day in Korea. You never knew who you would meet or see. Amazingly I saw so many celebrities including a star from the singing group Girls Generation, several famous actors, Li Hyori, Julia Gillard and even the artist from the hit song Gangnam Style Psy. There were photo opportunities everywhere. Works of art were vibrant throughout the city. The mountains and forest were majestic and the amount of choices of food to eat could leave you deciding for hours.

Transport was very convenient, everywhere felt extremely safe and I even learned to love shopping! South Koreans have a very strong passion for fashion which is very easy to pick up with all the markets and department stores. Sales, sales and more sales kept the excitement alive, buying cashmere jackets for $150, Nike shoes 60% off and so much more.

I strongly believe that life is an adventure full of choices and I encourage all to take advantage of the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards and all opportunities that come your way. Don’t be afraid. Sometimes you have to take a risk and I guarantee the road less travelled will grant you a life of excitement and adventure.

© Copyright 2018 CK Group. All rights reserved.