Emmah MUTURI

Student of Swinburne University of Technology, Australia
Exchange to Sungkyunkwan University, Korea

My semester abroad at Sungkyunkwan University ("SKKU") in South Korea remains as the most beautiful and memorable experience of my life. I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to study abroad, and to realise my dream of going to South Korea on exchange. The Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong scholarship was fundamental in enabling this dream.

Background

Since I was a teen I have always has an affinity for Asian cultures in general, but for a number of years South Korea had captured my attention entirely. I was intensely captivated by its rich history, culture, language, TV shows and movies and of course K-pop! As a naturally introverted individual, I was hesitant about the idea of studying abroad. I was concerned about the reality of being pushed outside my comfort zone and of course the financial aspect is also one of my concerns. However, after speaking to a student who had been on exchange to Hong Kong and travelled to South Korea, I was deeply inspired! My mind was set at that very moment and within two weeks my application was then submitted. To this very day, that decision was the best gift I have ever given to myself.

Studies

My time at SKKU was phenomenal. Aside from living in a much-loved country, I had the privilege and honour of attending one of the most prestigious universities in Korea, and the oldest one in East Asia. The Seoul campus was a delightful mix of old and new, with modern buildings and facilities set against marvellous 619-year-old buildings. My classes were on Korean history, contemporary society and language. I was lucky to have excellent teachers and professors. The intensive Korean classes enabled us to quickly communicate and navigate Korea with ease. Thanks to our seasoned Professor Shin, whose classes on Korean history and contemporary society were by far, and until today, the most instructive, illuminating and enjoyable studies I have ever undertaken in my career as a student. I left SKKU with a well-grounded understanding of almost all aspects of Korea, from its history, its people and its intricate political economy.

Experiences

I had the opportunity to participate in activities that I normally wouldn't partake in. For example, I had the privilege of being on a South Korean national television ("KBS") for a program that analysed Korea's current educational system. I also was given the opportunity to be interviewed in the university's magazine and reflect on my experience in Korea. I was also in a SKKU one-take video with other SKKU students that would be presented to SKKU 2016 freshmen, which was such a fun experience. Apart from university related activities, I went to many K-pop concerts. I immersed myself in history by visiting temples, museums and the four main palaces. I indulged in the food, cosmetics and fabulous Korean skincare products and fashion. Of course, I took every advantage of Korea's amazing nightlife and partied with friends almost every weekend.

My experience would not have been the same without the incredible people I met. My assigned student buddies from SKKU remained dear friends to me as they helped me to connect well with Korean culture and truly understand its people in a unique way. My beautiful friends from Brazil, Germany, Netherlands, Philippines and Canada were so special to me. They remained the most intelligent and brightest group of people I have ever met. We shared so much experiences and stories together. Their unique perspectives and outlooks on life challenged and broadened my scope of thinking. I am deeply grateful for their friendship and will continue to maintain them.

All in all, I would like to thank Swinburne University for seeing the value and investing in exchange programs. I am also thankful for Swinburne in extending me the opportunity and supporting me throughout the process. I would also like to thank Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards again for making this dream possible. My exchange program has had a profound impact on my life. I was able to conquer my fears and become a well-rounded individual. I am now so excited and ready for future opportunities in South Korea and Asia!

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