Student's Blog: GEO Clubs

Two of the students of Prof. Tom Kim (Class 3-3) share their insights and experiences on joining GEO clubs and which club they enjoy most.

Student's Entry #1 (Olympic Club)

When I was a high school student, there was an elective class only once a week. Our nation's education system is weighted on college admissions, meaning that students have to study Korean, Mathematics, English, Social Science, and Science; more than extra subjects such as PE, art, music etc. I had focused on my 'major subjects', and because of that my PE score was very low. Last year, I was so weak that I always caught a cold. What was worse was that I got pneumonia.

I have thought that I could enjoy exercising after entering university. However, I do not have a lot of time to work out because I have lots of homework to do.  Also the Health Club is kind of expensive, and I don't have a lot of money. Luckily, for me there is a club called 'Olympic Club' in which I can perform light exercises in the gym for free.

I joined the Olympic Club to help enhance my health. The club helps me to be healthy and is very fun, it also helps me with speaking English too. My team is Ireland, and it is comprised of three members: two girls and one boy. The shot put is the most interesting sports to me. I've never had the experience of doing the shot put, so I was very unfamiliar with that. 

Ji Eun Son

Class 3-3

Student's Entry #2 (Card Club and TV Club)

Many students do not know how to play any card games. So we all had to learn the basics first.  Our TA Dan and our professor were very passionate and patient enough to teach us about it.  They would join us while they teach us the rules of the game and there would be interaction not only towards the students but also with the TA and the professor itself.  As the game progresses on, each of us would write down our score on a piece of paper and by the end of the game, we would find out who the winner was.  In addition, winners are given Choco Pies as their award.

Signing up for Club B was rather exciting.  I was actually the first person to sign up for TV club and with the rest of the clubs.  In my case, I chose to join TV club because if I chose the other ones, I would have time conflict with my other major subjects.  My friend, Eun Ji, who is also my classmate in my GEO class, recommended it to me.

Due to the Korean holiday and mid-terms that has recently passed, I am still yet unable to join and tell you about how TV Club is.  I don’t really know how it goes (TV Club) but I am looking forward to joining it as soon as I can because I am also curious and excited to see how different it could be from the previous club I joined.

Originally, we had only one club in one semester but it was changed.  I think that it is a good way to have various experiences.  I want to participate in more clubs later. 

Ji Hye Park

Class 3-3

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 G.E.O Club

Several students from GEO Class 3-3 shares their experiences from their club. Read further so you get to learn about their experiences ^^

Lee Han Mil shares...
My G.E.O club is Travel & Culture Club.

Frankly, at first I wanted to join the TV Club but I was too late in signing up so I had to join the Travel & Culture club. It was a coincidence however I like my club now.

Because of the club I can learn about another country’s culture I’ve never experienced. I can also see the picture of other country’s famous site. I think those pictures are not just pictures. It’s a preparation for real travelling. Someday I will go abroad. I believe that at that time memories of my club will give inspiration to me. So I’m happy to join the Travel & Culture Club.

Myeong In narrates...

I am a member of the Short Story Club. We meet every Thursday at 3pm. We have a homework every week, read a story and talk about that. Sometimes we play a game. It is very fun. I got a free OBF coffee coupon because I won the game last time. I hope I get a lot more things there and share our thought more.

Hwang Sang Jun imparts...

My GEO club is Short Story Club. We read a story before the club and discuss it. I think the club activity is just fine. TA EJ is a very passionate person and TA Andrew is good, too. I met Andrew in the health club a few days ago. Actually, I think Andrew has more passion in health than club activity. I am not kidding. I like the TAs but I'm dissatisfied with classroom. Our classroom is not settled yet so we always have to change the room.

And the story we should read every week is very long. I'm member of the Short Story Club, not the Long Story Club.

From GEO Class 3-3 (Professor Peter Jenkins and TA Kristiine's class)

Participate and Take action in your GEO 16 clubs

To break monotony and give students an outlet that caters to their hobby, GEO created clubs so students can engage in the group that they are most interested in. GEO clubs are also a way for GEO students to socialize and mingle with a different set of people other than those who are in their classes and teams.

For GEO 16, there are a couple of clubs in store for the students:

Professor Jerry & TA Go Eun invites you to have a relaxing moment in Coffee Club

Learn photography techniques from Professor Nathan & TA Bo Mi in Photography Club

Craving for an EXCITING EVENING? Join Professor Roger & TA Jeanne in Survivor Club

Play Wheel of Fortune, Charades and Countdown with Professor Peter & TA China in Game Show Club

Meet a Fitness Pal and Be motivated to be fit with Professor David & TA Gellene's in Fitness Pal Club

Watch and enjoy American sitcoms with Professor Greg & TA Mario in Sitcom Club

Have a smartphone? Utilize it. Learn to make great videos from the expert Professor Patrick & TA Hani

Indeed GEO club sessions are a great time to network with other individuals, creating long lasting relationships with new people. So during your club time, don't just sit around . Participate and Take action! Don’t be afraid! You might never know, your GEO club, might go continue on even after GEO 16 culminates. ^_~

by: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor

Enjoying the all new GEO 15 Clubs

This GEO 15 we have a lot of new clubs. Aside from the Coffee Club, Sitcom Club, Game show Club, Movie Club, Photography Club which we had in the previous camps. This time around, we have Global Issues Club, Survivor Club, Badminton Club and Fitness Pal Club. Since there are new clubs this time, we deemed it necessary to ask students about their feedbacks about the clubs they are involved in.

In-seop plays Ninja game during the Fitness Pal club.meeting

A number of Class 1-2 students shared their sentiments regarding the clubs.

In Seop shares “I think that the GEO fitness club is interesting and funny, because the club has a variety. The Fitness club helps us make new friends. And the exercise plan keeps me healthy. Prof. David and TA Peter work hard for us. I am satisfied with the Fitness Club. Thanks for everything!”

Students from the Survivor Club listens to instructions that Professor Roger gives for their exciting activity

Ki Tae relates “I joined the Survival Club. Survival club is very thrilling. When I play the game, I can enjoy it very much. I have the fighting spirit until the finish line.”

Professor Stephen makes use of a powerful tool - www.TED.com website to share pertinent issues that are important in the world

Young Jin imparts “My Club is the Global issues club. At first time when I attended the club meeting, I felt that things were a bit hard to understand. Thanks to professor’s efforts, I could understand now.”

It seems that students are enjoying their time in GEO clubs. Not only that, it is evident that they are motivated and inspired to speak up. With all the activities in line for the students (the classroom activities, team competitions, club and team meetings, presentation contests, team performances, et. al), students have a lot of venues to use the English language. This camp, GEO management is aggressive in encouraging students to use the English language so that students can make the most out of their time. GEO management, professors and staff work hand in hand to make this camp a remarkable one. And yes, GEO 15 organizers and staff are doing a great job. Students too are cooperative in this effort. Surely, GEO 15′s success is unstoppable.

from GEO Class 1-2 (Prof. Jerry Tumlinson and TA Boram Kang )

New clubs to fill your cravings and facilitate your English learning experience

This GEO 15 we have new clubs to fill your cravings and facilitate your English learning experience. Students signed up for two clubs of their choice. Club meetings are scheduled every Tuesdays and Thursdays at 630 to 720pm. There will be three club meetings where students get to do a lot of fun activities related to their club.

We hope you’ll freely share your ideas and participate actively in the club. So you can make the most of your time during the club meetings.

（●＾o＾●） Enjoy （●＾o＾●）

GEO 15 students, Take a look at the club posters and Hurry!!! Pick two clubs of your choice...

by: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor

I love my TV club

My club is ‘TV club’, every Thursday four to five in the afternoons. I heard about a lot about TV club from my GEO friends. TV club was really fun, because they showed many episodes of dramas, soap operas, sitcoms, and teenage dramas, like Gossip Girl. I am really excited about it.

TV club poster made by TA Dee and TA Marnel

During the first session, when I arrived at class room, there was two teaching assistants (TA). Desks were also lined up. The T.A. grouped one guy and one girl each as a group. After few minutes, our class started. We listened to the explanation about what the TV club is all about, what to do, and so on. At the beginning of the class, we did not know each other, so we played a game introducing myself to my partner for 30 seconds, and then we changed our partner. It was easy and fun. When the game was finished, my classmates and I got to know each other. We were very much acquainted and remembered each other’s faces very well.

During the following class, we watched one episode about gossip. The episode showed us how gossip becomes widely known by a lot of people. After watching, we played a game. The rule was simple. First person made a rumor, and next person added detailed things about the rumor. After playing game, we said ‘good bye!’ and came back to the dormitory.

I always look forward to our meetings in our TV club. I hope to learn a lot about different TV dramas and at the same time have fun learning English.

Article written by: Hye-gyung Hyun

from GEO Class 4-3 (Prof. Tom Kim and TA Minjae Park)

Why we love GEO Clubs...

The clubs are one of the most interesting parts of GEO: it’s where students get to learn what they what and learn it how the want it. As a supplement to classroom instruction, it focuses more on the things students are likely to encounter in their use of English: in travelling, the arts, singing, public speaking, or watching TV. You name it, GEO has it. Generally, students are therefore motivated to participate in their respective clubs because it is near to their interests and since it’s not really a class and are more like leisure time.

Because language is basically an expression, expressing things that we like are easier if we are interested in what we are trying to convey. For example, we present our artworks in ways that are not far from what we feel about them. Pictures, themes, sentiments and arguments from all the clubs have enabled us to at least try talking about things that we like or are interested in. What’s more, we do it without burden because fun and learning are one and the same in the clubs we are in.

Clubs however are not without problems. In some cases, students are not able to join their preferred clubs because of their academic schedule or because clubs did not meet what they thought they would offer. We hope clubs would accommodate the diversity interests by feeling the pulse of the students. We think that clubs, being the sum of the students’ interests should be able to reflect the subjects that are close to the student’s hearts.

Lastly, our teaching assistant (TAs) has made clubs lively being a part of club activities rather than just teaching. By making sure that the conversations keep on going and that they are fun. By being students and facilitators as well, TAs have made clubs a good place to enjoy the company of new friends.

So to GEO clubs, we love you and we hope you would get better!

By: students of Class 1-1 (Professor Jerry, TA Jam)

Fun and Learning with GEO Clubs

There are many different clubs in GEO. Here are some reviews from our classmates:

Tae-il: TAs (Teacher Assistants) in the Pop Song Club introduce us to famous pop artists such as Michael Jackson or Britney Spears. Everyone has a chance to be a VJ at least once. Our club is going to perform at the Wine and Cheese Party!

TAs Gelleneand Karlof the Pop Song Club discussing the contents of the music video

Hye-min: I love my club, the Sitcom Club. Each week we watch an episode of a sitcom. Our TAs, Van and Dee, prepare games for us. Van is really good at acting and Dee is very kind.

Kyeong Eon: I like watching Gossip Girls in our Sitcom Club, although the activity “making gossips” was strange for me. Our TAs, Van and Dee, are very kind and funny and they are two reasons why I attend this club

Students listening attentively to the presentation with TAs Van and Dee of the TV Sitcom Club

Ji Hyun: The Short Story Club is interesting and fun especially because the stories are not common stories. Our TAs are well prepared and very kind.

Song hee: I love reading so that’s why I joined the Short Story Club. Although I’m not good at English, I enjoyed reading “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe. We also play fun games such as the detective game. The winner got a free drink ticket, so I tried my best, but ended up first runner up.

Everyone in the Short Story Club enjoying the activity “The Box” (with TAs Elliot and EJ)

Chun-Jung: I’ve been late and missed going to the Speaking Club a couple of times to prepare for the school musical, but the TAs were nice and said, “That’s okay, but don’t be late.” Unfortunately, I don’t know much about the club, but will attend more often in the future.

TA Mario and all students’ eyes and ears on TA Raquel as she discusses tips for good public speaking

By students from GEO Class 3-6 (Professor David, TA Keith)

Fun and Exciting Student Clubs await GEO students

GEO 11 student clubs are better and more exciting than before. Clubs this spring semester cater to a variety of student’s interest. Aside from the TV Sitcom club, Pop Song Club, Art Club, Short story club, and Belly Dancing club (now Polly Belly Dancing club), we have two new exciting clubs that students can choose from – Public Speaking Club and Traveler’s club. These student clubs are facilitated by the Filipino Teaching assistants who are experts in these fields.

Student clubs are a fun way of using the English language. Students exercise their English speaking, listening, reading, writing skills in their GEO classes. In student clubs however, they get to practice using English more often. Moreover, they get to express themselves and be more confident in using the English language. It is an interesting and challenging experience to learn and immerse themselves in using English in a different setting.

GEO 11 Student Clubs:

TV Sit Com Club enhances the listening skills of students through exposure to English series. Open discussion and club exercises and activities will be done to ensure student’s comprehension of the series they watched. English series enthusiasts, Diana and Van, facilitates the TV Sitcom club.

Pop Song Club aims to develop singing ability but more importantly it aims to boost student’s confidence and improve further their English proficiency. The new pop singing sensation, Gellene and Karl, will teach students how to sing their heart out in the Pop Song Club.

Art Club stimulates students’ ability in communicating their thoughts through the use of two media: English and Art. It provides an avenue where students can develop a sense of individuality and creativity, while enjoying the use of the English Language. The ingenious tandem of Coeli and Cynthia will inspire you to create wonderful artworks.

Short Story Club provides a venue where students can actively participate in English-based activities designed after each short story. The dynamic duo, Eliott and EJ, will help you develop the ability to articulate your thoughts through guided club activities.

Public Speaking Club aims to enhance the presentation and confidence skills of the GEO students. The sessions are focused on conversations within the club members about a selected topic. Best buds, Raquel and Mario, will help you outshine yourself and develop your English speaking and presentation skills.

Polly Belly Dancing Club aims to improve student’s English skills through listening as well as following, recalling and executing dance steps. Moreover it aims to develop self-discipline, motivation, respect, confidence and expression of students. Join Gracey and Ann as they provide a different venue to practice your English speaking and listening skills through dance.

Traveler’s Club aims to foster students’ awareness about the different cultures of other countries through vigorous activities vis-à-vis enhancement of their English communication skills and boosting their self-confidence. It also aims to enhance camaraderie among students and equip them with a well-grounded knowledge about the world in general. Sign up with Roselle and Morris as they provide you with exciting activities!

Written by: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor

A quick look at the Photography and Card Game Club

Hello. I am In Kyng. I lost the game in the class. So as punishment, I had to write this article ^_^

Let me introduce my club. My Tuesday club is Photography club. In the club, we talk about photography. I thought taking pictures is just pressing the button but I was wrong. Taking pictures is a kind of art and we need some tips to take good pictures.

Photography Club's Professor Greg

We watched a video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwoB-cDX9wo). It is about how we can take great pictures.

Prof. Tom Carlaw teaching students Card Games

My Thursday club is the Card Game club. There, we played card games. This kind of game is not popular in Korea. During our first meeting, I didn't even know the rule! But Professor Tom and my club mate is good at explaining. So, don't worry! Just join and enjoy!

Class 3-3 with Prof. Tom and TA Nara

By: In Kyung from Class 3-3 (Prof. Tom Kim and TA Nara)

4-1's Club Activity

Let students from GEO Class 4-1 tell you about their classmate's club activity:

I’d like to tell you about my friend Hak-Jun’s club activity. He wants to improve his English speaking skills while he is in the GEO program. He decided to join the cooking club because he loves cooking! Although, he cannot cook like a professional chef in an expensive hotel, he likes cooking nonetheless. He feels happy while he cooks for other people. He believes that cooking is an expression of love, like the food prepared by your mother for you. - Moon Hyeok

Cooking club members enjoying their club activity

After the club activity, students get to indulge in the food they cooked) ^_^

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Hello, my name is Hakjun Lee. Let me introduce the GEO club of my partner, Moon Hyuk Jo. Moonhyuk joined the TOEIC club. As he is a Seminarian, Munhyuk does not need a good TOEIC score to get a job. Still, he is interested in improving his English skills. At the moment, he is planning for his trip to Spain to attend the World Youth Day, a famous festival for the Catholic youth. Since regular TOEIC classes are very expensive, the GEO TOEIC club is the perfect opportunity for him.

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I would like to tell you about my friend, Min Jung, and her GEO TOIEC club. She joined because she wants to improve her English abilities. When she heard about the TOEIC club, she decided to take this class to improve her chances of getting a good job. TOIEC classes outside the university are usually very expensive, but during GEO it is offered for free. How cool is that! I am very happy for her! - Lee Soyoun

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Hello, my name is Yong Taek. I would like to introduce my friend, Jae Yeop. He is a very cool guy. He joined the GEO Music club. In that club, they listen to different kinds of music. He says Jamaican songs which they listen to during club time are really cool. The Music Club’s professor is Roger. He is very kind and awesome.

Music Club's professor Roger teaches students of different music

by GEO Class 4-1 (Professor Nico & TA Sehyun)

Related article: http://geocuk.blogspot.com/2011/01/whats-up-with-geo-9-winter-clubs.html

MY GEO LIFE!

Now, we are already at the half-way point of the GEO program. Time goes by so fast, doesn’t it? In the beginning, the GEO program was a little bit tough, because I had so many things to do! There were the morning and afternoon classes, preparing for the team drama, competitions, club meetings, and various other events. At first, the heavy schedule made me very tired, but as each day passes, GEO becomes even more and more exciting and interesting.

Sports night cheer performed by the author's Team, BELIZE

Catch the Tail game, Team Belize warming up before the game starts

I have already made many good friends. Plus, the TAs and professors working in the GEO program are especially helpful and friendly. I truly believe GEO has helped me improve my ability to speak English. Although it is a real challenge, the rule that we have to speak English, not only in class but also in the dormitory, provides an excellent opportunity for me to push myself to the next level of English fluency.

Class photo during Pop Quiz time

The author mingling with Korean friend and Filipino teaching assistant, Gellene

Enjoying the Cheese & Wine party

Another great point about GEO is that it contains so many different activities and events. This helps me learn English by experience. For example, by the benefit of the cooking club, I learn some practical everyday words and I get to eat some delicious food, too! Learning English can be very tiring and difficult, but GEO provides a setting whereby speaking English is coming to me naturally. I think it’s the best way to learn a second language.

Cooking pancakes, The authors club mates and professor Keith in the Cooking Club

The author and his close friend, Michael, with the delicious pancakes that students cooked themselves.

So, these are just a few of my brief thoughts about GEO. I am eagerly looking forward to the rest of my time in GEO and I will continue to do my very best. I also hope to make lots more new friends and have lots more fun!

Written by Chung Min Bae, GEO class 3-2 (Professor Greg & TA Maricris)