What consumed my Spring 2014 Semester (TA Blog)

By TA Frida Tobias

Second Semester is almost coming to an end and seems like I haven’t accomplished all my objectives yet. This summary tries to single out my achievements from those that were apparently substandard efforts occurred between March and May 2014. A reflection I need in order to keep me motivated; I still have a whole month of June though to cross out the remaining targets from my checklist.

Sharing my CUK Festival sentiments...

It was my first time to experience the festival in the university. I belong to the School of Business and I joined the Business Administration society in our department. The name of our organization is "Ringing in the Morning." I was really excited and nervous because of the festival. The festival was from Wednesday to Friday. We opened a small tavern and at the beginning I thought it was hard. A lot of people came and serving all of them really made me tired.

Korean performances during the CUK Festival

There were several performances during the festival. In addition, our school invited two famous performers for the festival. The names of the bands are 2 AM and 10 cm. They sang their songs well. On the first day of the festival, there weren't a lot of people. But on the second day when the bands are going to perform, there were an awful lot of people. At first we thought it would be nice if many people will come but the more people came, the more we had a lot of work to do. After the last day of the festival, there was a lot of cleaning up to do. The festival was fun at first but eventually, I thought that working for the festival is just hard.



by Kim Kun Woo, GEO Class 2-6, Professor Stephen and TA Gellene

CUK Student Festival - a Fun & Enjoyable experience

Pub like tents (Po Jang Ma Cha) mushroom around the
CUK soccer field in celebration of the  CUK Student Festival

I enjoyed student festival in Catholic University of Korea that occurred last Wednesday to Friday. During the first and second day, I ran a pub and street stall because I am a member of school club and my school club had decided to operate them. During the daytime, I ran the street stall to sell some street food. My club members had determined that we would sell a cup of “Naeng-myeon”, Korean cold noodles. All of our members, including me, expected that it would be very popular, but I was so sad because it was not that popular. However, when I ate it, I could feel why they were not popular because the taste was pretty terrible. Obviously it will not sell well. However, the pub which we ran at night was very popular because the foods were very delicious. One of my team members’ mother cooks very well, so we borrowed her recipe. That was why the foods were delicious.

Students enjoying the food we served ^^

On the second day, my friends came to my street stall. We spent time together. They bought a lot of foods from me. Therefore I could take a rest earlier than expected. Also, at night, a lot of senior came to the pub. I expected I would sell a lot of food at a more expensive price because traditionally seniors paid more expensive price for food. I could get a lot of margin thanks for them. Everything which I experienced during the day was so good. I enjoyed the festival a lot. I had a lot of fun. I could not forget it.

Jam Packed Student Festival. Students enjoy the music from 10cm and 2am, among other performers

by Se-jin Park, GEO Class 4-1, Professor Nigel Powers and TA Ilene

My Awesome CDZ Life

The name of CDZ is the acronym for 'Catholic University Dancing Zone', and it is the only central dancing circle in Catholic University of Korea. My way of joining this circle is quite special. At first, I did not participate in the audition for CDZ. This is because I was a little bit shy girl. I thought I was not that good at dancing like other member of my circle. I danced in our major's MT, and one of sophomores at school suggested that I join CDZ. I thought about it and I think it is a good suggestion so I joined the club.

Let me share with you my CDZ Life. We usually have a circle meeting from 6 to 9 PM every Tuesdays and Thursdays. During our meeting, we usually take a test so that everyone dances in front of others. In turn, other member give an advice to another member. This is a good practice to improve our craft. Actually, I have a GEO class from 8 to 9 during the same day, so I always have to leave our club earlier than other members. I feel sorry to them, but they understand mey situation fully and for that I am grateful. These days, all members always gather together because of the preparation for the school festival. My friends say "It is very hard to see and spend some time with you. You must be busy. Aren't you tired? Your circle is too strict!" However, I have never regretted being a part of this club. It is such a pleasant thing to communicate with our club members and spend a great time with them. Unlike what other people think, my seniors are very kind and nice people.  

These days, I am excited to perform along with the CDZ club during our school festival. I hope I can be a part of this club until I finish my college year at CUK. I think aside from GEO, this is a great activity that students can be involved in. I am trying to keep things balanced, which is not an easy thing to do. However, I am grateful about the fact that I can enjoy these two activities.  I hope you find an organization and activities that you enjoy too. This way you can make the most out of your time, learn something new and enjoy your time.

by Narae Kang, GEO Class 4-1, Professor Peter Jenkins and TA Sydney

My Interview with a Korean Class TA

Two of our GEO Class 3-2 students grabbed the chance to interview Korean Class TAs (Teaching Assistant).

Continue reading to know what transpired during their interview.

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Hello! My name is Kim YeongJi and I’m a student of Roger’s class 3-2. I would like to introduce a Korean TA whose name is Kang Bo Ram. She is a cool GEO TA, and she also happens to be a good friend of mine.

Q1. Would you please introduce yourself?

Hello. My name is Kang Bo Ram, a Korean TA in GEO 17. I am in my senior year now and my Major is Religious studies. I also have English literature as my second major. I joined the GEO program for four times already and I became a TA from the last winter camp which is GEO 15. While I was in the program, I got acquainted with lots of great, warm, and smart people in many English activities. Even though sometimes I’m already tired because of homework and exams, GEO had been my motivation to keep learning English. It had been my inspiration. I learn a lot from GEO.

Q2. How about your life as a GEO TA?

GEO is a real great program and it has been a role model for other universities. The reason why I applied for the GEO program is that I really admire their goals and I want to learn more and experience it myself. Boosting confidence in speaking English in front of other people and providing great opportunities are some of the advantages of the GEO program. Working as a TA makes me more proud and confident and being a leader in the class is a great opportunity to make myself a better person. I can meet a lot of great people like Foreign TAs, professors, and other Korean TAs. They have been my best friends and I can learn more from them all the time. This makes my school life more enjoyable.

Q3. Do you have some messages for GEO students?

I believe the GEO program will be a great key for you to open the door to globalization. Professors and TAs are here to help and guide you. Don’t hesitate to approach them and if there is anything that you want to suggest, change, or improve, please talk to us right away. Also, by meeting new friends and being together with other people, you will enjoy the program even more. “Be active and positive! It will change your life.” Thank you.

I really appreciate Bo Ram for answering my questions during the interview. Thank you!

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Jeong-min seo shares "The Korean T.A. that I interviewed was Ji-yeun. When I entered the GEO office, she looks very busy. I asked her if I can interview her and without hesitation, she accepted my request and answered all of my questions.

Ji-yeun is twenty five years of age. I was surprised that we are of the same age. She is taking up Korean language and literature and she is already in her senior year. She told me "I am Japanese not Korean," and I believe her because she really has a similar face and pronunciation with the Japanese. She studied in Canada and she recommended that Vancouver is a good city. She also told me that salary wise, being a GEO TA is not that helpful as it is not a monetarily rewarding job, nevertheless she was really interested and proud of her job. "

by Kim YeongJi and Jeong-min seo, GEO Class 3-2 (Professor Roger Foard and TA Carlo Clarin's class)

Why is G.E.O. program popular and effective for Korean students?

Many students are participating in Catholic University's G.E.O. (Global English Outreach) program.

Why is it so popular?

Because G.E.O. program is very effective for Korean students. So many students are applying for the G.E.O. program.

There are several specific reasons...

Students are not only encouraged to think independently.

Through the classroom and various program activities, they are also encouraged to speak up.

First, Korean students want to build their confidence in English speaking. Koreans are good at English writing and grammar, but they can't speak English very well. Since they hardly had the chance to speak English in primary and middle school and even in high school, they don't have confidence in speaking English. But G.E.O. program focuses on improving their ability to speak English, helping students be more confident and comfortable in using the language. The students are expected to always speak in English, not Korean, wherever they go, whatever they do (even inside the dormitory). Students who use Korean in the course receive the penalty that takes off their team points. So G.E.O students always think of English words or sentences in conversing with peers. Hence, it becomes a habit for them. This course enables students to develop their English speaking skills.

Second, the government admitted that G.E.O program is very good program for those who want to speak in English. They recommend this program. Instead of going abroad, students can enjoy a globalized learning environment in the midst of their home country. They can meet a lot of foreigners and enjoy a bunch of activities during the course. Indeed, after finishing G.E.O. Level 5, students will absolutely be confident and will be able to converse well using the English language.

Various GEO activities in store for you -

Club activities, Team competitions, GEO radio, Global Lounge visits

Third, G.E.O foreign professors are so kind and passionate. Students are satisfied with their classes. Their classes are of high quality and are very useful. Moreover, teaching assistants who are called 'TAs' are also readily available to aid students. When you have a problem, the TA will help you. They are very able and reliable individuals who are willing to assist students. They are very approachable. Surely, this is an added bonus the GEO students. Not only did they gain capable teachers, but they also had new foreigner friends.

Hardworking and engaging professors that facilitate the GEO classes

Finally, since the Catholic University supports around 70% price of the tuition fee, G.E.O program is very cheap . Not only that, consider the comfort of learning English in your home country. You don't need to go abroad to pay a fortune. The G.E.O program is much cheaper and more effective than that of other countries.

In summary, I think that grammar and writing skills are less important than speaking and listening. When you visit any country or meet a foreigner, which ability do you need first? Grammar or writing? No. First of all, you need to speak in English. That is why, for me, speaking ability is the most important among the four skill sets. Therefore, it is but only beneficial to enroll in the G.E.O. program as this is a very effective and necessary course for Korean students. So what are you all waiting for? Please, don't be afraid of speaking in English, Enroll and encourage your family and peers to take part in CUK’s GEO classes. ^_~

Go and apply for G.E.O.! It will change your future.

by Kim Jin Soo from GEO Class 3-2 (Professor Roger and TA Jeanne)

Ever wonder what happens in a GEO classroom?

Ever wonder what happens in a GEO classroom?

Here are some of the activities that take place...

Using the English language, students excitedly shares with each other about certain topics written in their cuesheets (The mechanics of the activity is very similar to a Speed Dating game)

Students freely share ideas and interact with each other

Even TAs are part of the class.

TA Jiyeun (far right) joins the class activity and mingles with students.

In addition, student get to speak confidently in class

(Class activity: Truth/Lie game; and many other classroom activities lined up

to encourage students to speak up)

They are even eager to raise their hands to participant in class.

Sometimes, students even enjoy alternative activities like playing games...

How do you untangle a human knot? Want to give it a try? ^_~

Not thrilled to play a game?

Then, you might be interested to do a personality quiz to get to know you better.

Or if it's not your cup of tea,

maybe you can be motivated and inspired by watching videos from TED

(TED is a great tool to inspire and motivate learners)

These and more happen in a GEO classroom. Bottomline?

Simply having fun while learning English the GEO way ❁◕‿◕❁

And oooopss...

Did I not mention, the most important of all?

Building confidence and making friends too ^_~

by: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor

GEO 15′s First Ever Team Competition: the Speed Quiz Challenge

GEO15 students participated in their very first team competition – Speed Quiz! During the game proper, student teams need to figure out a lot of words in a short time. The team that was able to guess the most number of words wins the competition. Every team actively participated and tried their best to be the winner of the game. For the X League, Jamaica won; whereas Singapore was the one who won for the Z League.

Here’s the results of the Speed Quiz:

Speed Quiz X League:

1. Jamaica – 100

2. Kenya – 90

3. Tuvalu and Seychelles – 80

Speed Quiz Z League:

1. Singapore – 100

2. Belize – 90

3. Panama – 80

4. South Africa and New Zealand – 70

Congratulations to everyone – Professors, Teaching Assistants and Students. Job well done!!!

Game master TA Eby

Students applauds for their teams

Team member trying hard to explain the word to the team guesser

Even the word World Cup is part of the word list

Spectators seriously watching the Speed Quiz Challenge

Just how can you explain Twitter?

Look at how excited they are to play the Speed Quiz Challenge

Learning English doesn’t stop even as you age.

TA Boram poses with TA Revan and TA Eby

Students trying their best to describe ET

How do you describe the word Stop Watch? ^_~

GEO 15 student seriously explaining the word that describes Super Mario

Z League teams

X league teams

by: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor

My course & why I chose it...

Hello, I am Min Jeong, and my major is English Language and Culture.

Since I was young, I have been dreaming about becoming a hotel manager. A hotel is a place where a lot of people from many other countries come and continually interact. In order to communicate with foreigners, hotel managers should at least speak more than three languages fluently. I have chosen this major because English is a global language, which I wanted to learn more deeply.

Also, people from all over the world have their own cultures. Since we have to make those visitors comfortable, we should also know about their cultures. Our major has subjects like ‘Understanding English Culture’ and ‘Understanding American Culture.’ I thought that learning other people’s cultures would be important too.

Before graduating from the university, my goal is to learn English more deeply and be fluent in Japanese too. After graduation, I would like to go abroad and study in Switzerland, which is famous for hotel management. I would study hard and go to the best hotel management graduate school. Also, since I am interested in the environment, I have thought that making hotels eco-friendly is a good idea. Since Switzerland is also famous for their clean nature and eco-friendly hotels, I’m going to examine those hotels and see how they work.

Hotel Management Photo courtesy of Min Jeong,

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Hi, I’m Ji Won. My major is Business. I can tell you three reasons why I chose this major. First, regarding my interests, I thought many enterprises are attractive, so I wanted to have a voice in management. Second, being a manager is a gainful occupation, if I make a lot of effort. Third, through my major, I can obtain qualifications to be an electronic commerce manager, distribution manager, logistics manager, management guide, a social survey analyst, information processor, internet information processor, a PMP (project management professional), a consumer financial manager, and so on.

There are many careers I can enter after I graduate, so I can apply easily. For example, I can apply in all sorts of places, such as financial businesses, general manufacturing companies, consultation companies, government circles, law firms, hospitals, information enterprises, and multinational companies. I can also enter professional management fields as a personnel specialist, strategy analysis specialist, customer service specialist, marketing specialist, or a management consulting specialist. I can also try starting a small or medium enterprise, venture into business, or continue to graduate school to gain more knowledge and experience. In business, personnel network is important. Management majors have various personal connections.

Before I entered as a CUK management student, I felt burdened. However, now I enjoy my classes and I want to finish my major in order for me to apply my education in real life situations. I really hope that I can share what I learned to the world in order to be the best creative marketer!

March 2010 -- Ji Won with fellow participants who joined the
Management Major Management Trainee Program

November 2010 -- Ji Won attending the Management Academic Festival

by Min Jeong and Ji Won, from GEO Class 4-1, Professor Peter Kim's class