TA blog
Adjusting to Life in Korea
Leaving home to live in Korea for two years
is not all fun and games. When I first applied for this Master’s program with
CUK, I was ecstatic with joy. I get to pursue my Master’s degree abroad in
South Korea for two years! Woo-hoo! However, when the time actually came to
leave my home in Austin, Texas, I could feel my heart breaking. The thought of
leaving my family was overwhelming and so intense that it came as a complete
shock. I couldn’t turn back now, though. So, with a heavy heart I left my home
for Korea. The first few days were tough. I studied abroad in Korea previously
in the summer of 2012 and I did not feel sad about leaving home even once. Then
again, at that time the duration of my trip was only one month. I have never
left home for too long though, and especially not for two years. The first few
days in Korea were spent with my thoughts revolving around home and missing my
family. However, once classes and work started I could not believe how
preoccupied I became. I was constantly running here and there, trying to get
work done on time and trying not to be late for my appointments and meetings. I
didn’t have the time to think about how much I missed home anymore. This is one
of my favorite aspects about the lifestyle in South Korea. It is one of the
most hectic and fast paced life styles in the world, I think. From day to
night, I am consistently doing something, anything. But I am always occupied
with something or other. This is the reason that I was drawn to Korea. I loved
the city and the busy lifestyle. It keeps me productive, and it prevents me
from being idle. So, now that I have adjusted to life in Korea, I enjoy almost
every second. Of course, I still miss my family; I especially miss my baby
kitten who I cannot stand the thought of leaving for so long. But, these are
just a few of the many challenges that I must face in order to grow stronger
and more independent. Cheers to two years of South Korea!
By - Saba Tahir
