Message of thanks to GEO 18 students

Words cannot express how delighted I feel being able to experience to be a TA (teaching assistant) of a bunch of astonishing students. I shall say, taking part of the GEO TA program was totally worth it, I had such an amazing time - lots of fun and laughter.

I could still remember the nerve racking first day that I had when I had to sing for my students to break the ice with them; it still feels like it was just yesterday. During the past month, incredible things happened that has led me and my students to have such a special relationship and affection with each other. Though I was their TA, I felt that I was more of a very close friend to them; we had so much bonding moments and memories that I will definitely cherish.

I feel very honored being able to take part of the classes every week sharing my English knowledge and skills to my wonderful students. I had so much fun teaching the class and playing games with my students, I shall say, my students are the most, I repeat, the most energetic and enthusiastic students out of all the GEO classes, especially when we play games, everyone outside could hear them screaming!

Though one of the rules of the TA’s individual appointments was to only take maximum of three students at once, we still all went out for lunch and dinner as a one whole big group which made our relationship much stronger and closer. We even met up outside classes to have chats and just hang out which allowed me to know each of them better and vice versa. We also keep in touch everyday through the very convenient ‘Kakao Talk’!

~My message to my students~

Hey guys! I would like to sincerely give you thanks for all of the memories that we made and shared together. I will definitely treasure them forever. Thank You for making my stay here in South Korea way way way more enjoyable. I’m going to miss you guys singing and dancing for me and I’m so glad that I sang for you guys for so many times. I hope that you all liked it even though I’m not a good singer. I really appreciate how you guys worked so hard to participate in my class and for helping me big time to improve my Korean.

I’m going to miss having lunch and dinner with you guys! Thank You so much too for the cake, letter and presents that you all prepared for me, I was very very, really very touched with your messages. I hope to see you guys again; I know that we will someday! Please always keep in touch with me even when I’m back in London, just ‘kakao talk’ me or facebook okay?

Please continue learning English, as Ji Hoon will say: ‘Don’t give up and do your best as time flies like an arrow’.

I would also like to Thank Roger and Morris for guiding me all the way through, I appreciate everything!

Komawo so much everyone! I will miss you ALL!

AJA FIGHTING! Saranghaeyo!

by Russell Tolentino. Buddy from Abroad, from London

London & South Korea: Both Uniquely Different

London is absolutely nothing like South Korea; both countries are completely different in every aspect. However, being here in South Korea is not that very new to me as I have once lived in Asia before. First and foremost, one of the major differences of South Korea to London is the burning hot weather, the sun is always out and you can feel the heat straight away as you come out of the university building. So so HOT!

The food is also completely different, way different; British food is kind of more similar to American food, we have different sorts of pies, pizzas, burgers  and pasta. In addition, London is very popular because of fish and chips, full English breakfast, roast dinners and English trifle. On the other hand, Korean food is more distinct and exotic with wide variety of main dishes such as ‘bulgogi’, ‘samgyeopsal’ and ‘bibimbap’ along with plenty of side dishes, all of which have diverse flavours that I have never tasted before. I shall also mention that Korean foods are crazily spicy, some of them are bearable but some of them are just too spicy for my taste buds!

I also noticed that Koreans have more polite manner and attitudes than British. Koreans greet each other randomly by saying “anyeong hasseyo” and then bowing with a smile which makes my day every time. In contrast, in London, we do not greet people that we do not know as that will be just weird. Furthermore, here in Korea, younger people really respect people that are older than them even though it’s just a year older, they use the terms ‘noona’ and ‘hyeong’ for older sister and brother and they follow whatever they say and they always have the last word.

Lastly, famous places of attractions of both countries completely differ from each other. In London, it is all about the royal and quaint characteristics such as the Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Windsor Castle, and the London Bridge, on the other hand, South Korea have an infinite amount of religious and historical palaces and temples that are really fascinating.

In conclusion, although both countries have completely different cultures, London and South Korea are unique in different ways and I am very delighted to have the chance to experience and see for myself what London and South Korea have to offer me and the world. 

by Russell Tolentino. Buddy from Abroad, from London

My enjoyable GEO experience

Today is the last day that I attended the program. I enjoyed all the classes, appointments with students and events during this happy time !! I love the students, professors, the supporters and everyone who helped me for this program. I attended the sports event, and the fashion show. They were all nice and interesting. I really like to play with the students. They are so active, talkative.

The most important thing is that they tried really hard to speak in English!!! Since I don't speak English that well like a native speaker, so I know the feeling - the difficulty of making a completely perfect English. They make me want to put more effort on my English. All the students here in GEO voluntary applied in this program. During this month, I believe that they all can see how much they improved, how many things and experiences they gained.

In addition, I enjoyed the event "fashion show" and "Team cultural fair" a lot !! The performances made me remind of almost the same thing I did in my high school. We tried hard to memorize English lines, actions and facial expressions. This is not an easy job. So after watching the drama, I was so touched. I am really happy for them. They accomplished another milestone in their lives. Last but not least, I really love this program, it helped me have more opportunities to communicate with people. It helped the students talk more, to speak English as much as they can. If I have a chance, I really want to join this program again.

Thank you all the students, the professor and all the people in this program, I love you all <3


by Yun-Peng "Leo" CHU, Buddy from Abroad, from Taiwan

In my eyes: Observations about Korea and London

Highly visible is the famous 63 Building
(Seoul and Yeouido area at dawn)

Overall I have experienced a wide variety of differences between my home country and South Korea , despite only being here for a short while. When I first arrived in South Korea , I immediately noticed many differences just from the cities ( Seoul ) overall appearance and structure. For example, in Seoul , almost all building are apartments, and are extremely tall. England and London are very different. In England , houses are much more common than apartments, and very rarely are any apartments more than five stories high. The reason for this is due to London being an extremely cultural city, in that it keeps its original heritage and architecture. Seoul on the other hand-while it does have remnants of its historical building and houses-chooses to form a new modern style filled with huge apartments and many lights. Despite this, I have noticed many similarities between the two countries-in particular the cities. Both cities are extremely busy and crowded. While London is far smaller than Seoul and has a smaller population, the city actually seems just as crowded as Seoul . This is likely because London is smaller and therefore more ‘cramped’. Seoul is bigger but features a higher population with many homes, keeping the city extremely congested.

London structures/streets

2 Korea's flag

Overall my experiences in Korea have been extremely positive. I have had an opportunity to meet with many people from South Korea , both on my CGSS and GEO program. I have become very fascinated by the way people live their lives and are able to overcome such extreme obstacles-such as the extremely strict education system or the essential army training for all males. I am also fascinated by the unique relationship and history that exists between the two Koreas. For example, during my trip to the DMZ I witnessed first hand just how much tension there is between the two countries, and was even quite sad to see people of the same race and country having such hatred and distrust towards one another. Though I found the fact that the South Koreans still wish for a reunification to be quite inspiring and impressive.

To know more about Sam, check out:
http://geocuk.blogspot.kr/2012/07/our-new-cgss-friends-exposed-part-3.html
http://geocuk.blogspot.kr/2012/07/bfas-insights-part-3.html


by Samuel Kasim, Buddy from Abroad from the United Kingdom

I love my Korean experience

I have found that Koreans are very, very kind and sweet people. They are willing to do a lot for any random person they meet on the street. Americans are also very kind, but I’ve noticed that Koreans take a few extra steps in the process.

Last weekend, I stayed with a family in Ulsan. I cannot begin to explain how great of an experience that was. The family was so kind and just so wonderful! They were always keeping us entertained, fed, giving us anything and everything we needed, and so much more. I was so sad when I had to leave because I knew I would miss them too much. They gave us such a wonderful experience and I will cherish the memories we made forever. My home stay family took me and my friend to Haeyundae Beach, Jinha Beach, VIPS, many huge department stores and shopping malls, Madame Tussauds, an Onggi Museum, and so much more! They went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable every second of the day. We started each day early and ended each night very late because of how much fun we all had together. They took us all over Ulsan and Busan in just one weekend! They gave us an experience of a lifetime.

My students were excellent. They were kind and hard workers, and they always tried their best to make sure the BFAs were comfortable! They made this trip even more enjoyable:)

I cannot believe an entire month has gone by, and it is sad to me that I am already getting ready to leave this country. I have to come back here; I love it so much here. I love my Korean experience. 

 Saba's pictures with her GEO 18 class.

by: Saba Tahir, Buddy from Abroad from the United States of America

In my eyes: Observations about Korea and USA

There are many culture differences between the United States and Korea. The way that we eat, talk, act and live our lives is almost the exact opposite from each other. Within these past couple of weeks, I have easily noticed them. Most of the differences are due to our “individualism” style of living and Korea's “collectivism” style of living. Dealing with food, there are many examples of this. In the US, when going to a restaurant, every person has their own plate of food and their own beverage. To eat off of someone else’s plate without getting permission first is very rude. On the other hand in Korea, there are multiple plates of various foods that everyone is welcome to eat off together. Also, one person will pour the beverage for everyone at the table, starting with the oldest. This is very different than in America. Even when communicating with others, we differ in many ways. For example, when you say “thank you” in America, the person that you say “thank you” to is expected to say “you're welcome”. Not responding or just saying “yes” is very rude. In Korea, I have noticed that when you say “thank you” to someone, they respond by saying “yes”. At first I thought they didn’t care for me, maybe because I looked American. Soon I realized that saying “yes” is a very formal way of saying “thank you”. When dealing with everyday life, one thing I noticed is that when you open a door for someone, they just walk by without acknowledging that you had opened the door for them. Again, in America, this would be very rude and could aggravate some people. But I then I realized that they were not being rude, but they are in more of a “pali pali” or “hurry hurry” state of mind. So they are in a hurry to get to where ever they need to go, without noticing too much extra things around them. These are some of the observations I have about Korea and United States.

Final Thoughts:
My experiences in Korea have been unbelievable. I am so happy I had the opportunity to be able to fly across the world to visit a country that I never thought I’d ever be in. Studying the language and culture has been some of the best parts of the trip. I love the new people that I met and also the time I had spent with them. I have learned so much in this last month, and I am glad that I did. I am very proud to be able to go back to the states with all of my new knowledge about something that not a lot of people get to experience. I hope one day I can come back to Korea and visit everyone again.


by Steven Trujillo, Buddy from Abroad from the United States of America

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed - Part 9

You probably get a lot of "Hellos" from him. Get to know more about Steven, our Buddy from Abroad from USA, in this blog article...

1. Personal details

Name- Steven Trujillo

Nickname - Chango. This means “monkey” in Spanish. My mom gave me this nickname when I was little, because I was always climbing and jumping around everywhere. Plus I was a hairy little baby haha.

Hometown- I am from Phoenix, Arizona. Now living in Peoria, Arizona/Sioux City, IA for school.

Length of stay in Korea- I am here for just a month, I leave July 28th
School/ Course- I go to Briar Cliff University and I major in Psychology, minor in Criminal Justice.

2. What are your likes and dislikes?

Some of my likes include football, basketball, and pretty much any other sport. I like hanging out with my friends and family, and exploring other cultures and how people live differently.

Some of my dislikes include pickles, ghosts, math, politics, and cold weather.

3. What keeps you busy during your spare time?

On my spare time I try to exercise as much as I can. I love listening to music and social networking. 

4. What is your impression about Korea?  What do you like most about Korea? 

Korea is very different and almost intimidating when dealing with respect. It seems like a very conservative and strict country, in a good way.

I love the culture and the food.

5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub? 

I love the school, it’s a great place to learn and study to your full potential.

6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students

Do the best they can to help anyone in need to scholastic help.

7. Things you want to impart to readers 
I am a very loud and over friendly person, I love saying hello to anyone I see just get a positive reaction. Although Korea is much different from the US, I love the culture out here. One big difference I noticed was the dining manners.

8. Message to GEO 18 students
Hi. Your awesome.

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 8

Saba is another Buddy from America. We got more information about her, her thoughts about GEO and about Korea in general so GEO 18 students can get to know her better.

Check out what Saba has to share to you...

1. Personal details
Name: Saba Tahir
Hometown: NYC or Austin, TX
Length of stay in Korea: One month
School/ Course: St. Edward’s University/Biology
Terms of tenure in CUK : Exchange Student

2. What are your likes and dislikes?

I love to shop, read, watch movies, hang out with friends, talk to my cousins on the phone. I like to socialize and I love wandering the streets.

3. What keeps you busy during your spare time? 

Wandering the streets, talking to people. Watching dramas:)





4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?

I love Korea! The people here are so sweet, warm, and welcoming. There is something about Korea that really captivates my interest. I’m not sure what it is, but so far I love everything about it. I love the language as well.

Fun time during GEO 18 Sports Night

5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub? 

I really like CUK. And I think the GEO program is very smart of them to do. English is an extremely important language and the more students are comfortable with their English speaking skills, the more successful they will be. 

 6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students: 

I expect everyone to be welcoming, understanding, organized and fun. 

7. Things you want to impart to readers: 

I love it here in Korea. The peer buddies are so wonderful. The food is nice. The students are so sweet, I like spending time with them because of their lovable personalities.

7.8. Message to GEO 18 students: 

Great program for the students! 

Saba with BFA Grace and GEO 18 students

In my eyes: Observations about Korea and Taiwan

A lot of kimchi, people here discriminate against foreigners, most of the sexy girls do plastic surgery and change their appearances randomly, a super united country ...... They were my  impressions about Korea prior to my stay here. 

Today is the 19th day since I've been here. There are some things and special stuff that are different from Taiwan. Here are some of my observations...

The most interesting and funny one is that I can see drunken people staggering, talking loud on the streets or sleeping in the metro, with their flushing, red faces. It's really awkward and  infrequent sight  in Taiwan. Interestingly, noraebang (music rooms) are almost everywhere, this is the first time that I see 3 noraebang in a block. Besides, the metro system is more complicated than the one in Taiwan, I spend more time getting around and transferring in Korean subway than I do in Taiwan. And, the prices here are a little bit higher than Taiwan's as well. The selections of food are a little less than Taiwan's, though I love them a lot !! We can have hundreds of choices in a night market, but here, I eat kimchi almost everyday. Furthermore, the people here are generally polite and respectful to each other. No offense, but sometimes I feel a little contrived to bow to someone. 

I think Koreans are really good at marketing their country. Their advertisements are really attractive. Most of the scenic spots are also well-managed and the signs are clear for foreigners. Anyway, life here is just like most of the Asian cities. I think life here is not much different compared to most of the cities in Taiwan. Although the major setback is the language. Nevertheless, I enjoy learning Korean language and I like the Korean atmosphere. There are still a lot of things that waiting for me to discover, I'll try hard to study more and discover as much as I can !!

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 7

Brooke and her new Korean friend

We asked our CUK Global Summer School friend, Brooke, a couple of questions to get to know her better.


Here are the questions
1. Personal details
2. What are your likes and dislikes?
3. What keeps you busy during your spare time?
4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?
5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub?
6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students
7. Things you want to impart to readers
8. Message to GEO 18 students


 (Check out her answers below… Enjoy reading ^^)


Hi Everyone!

After their meal together - Brooke and her GEO 18 students

My name is Brooke Kruse. My friends call me b-krusey and I am from Sibley, Iowa. I go to Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, where I study nursing with a minor in psychology.

Want to get to know me a little better? 

Well I will tell you a little about myself. I am very tall, athletic and outgoing. During my free time, I like to play basketball, or pretty much any sport. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends and watching movies. My favorite movie would have to be Step Up. I love dancing and I wish I could only be that talented, so to compensate I just watch instead! ^_~ Since I am outgoing I love to talk with people so if you want to know more about me, all you have to do is ask! I am not shy! I have never been outside of the United States before so this is a first for me - coming to Korea. 

I am here for one month and the time is flying by. I want to see all that I can while I am here, which I have been, so I have been a little on the tired side. I start my days early and they end really late because I pack my days full with activities and I love it. I am also exhausted at the end of the day because here we walk everywhere, whereas in America we drive everywhere. We are lazy!

I am really enjoying Korea though because Korea is so culturally based. In America I feel as though we don’t really have a culture. Everyone just kind of does their own things. So I like to see that even after all these years Korea was able to keep their culture intact. It is an amazing thing to see!

Beside from all the fun, I am taking classes while I am here. In the morning I take Korean language class and in the afternoon I take a class about Korea (culture, politics, history, families) basically I just learn the Korean lifestyle. I enjoy my classes and I really enjoy the Korean language class.

When I first came to Korea I thought it would be impossible for me to learn the language, but it turns out it is not as hard as I thought! I just have not figured out why Koreans have two sets of numbers. That would be the most difficult part. LOL. Aside from class I am also a “Buddy From Abroad” in the GEO program. It is very time consuming and I am doing my best to make the schedules fit, but I am loving it. My class is SO much fun. I enjoy meeting with the students and getting to know them better. They teach me so much aside from all my classes and then I can teach them in return! I love that. They are so kind and outgoing as well so I enjoy spending my free time with them!

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 6

Continuing our Get to know your CUK Global Summer School friend. We have Christine from Taiwan to share something about her and some encouraging words to our dear GEO 18 students.

Check out what she have for you...

1. Personal details

Name: Christine (Chun Ting) Huang

Nickname: Chrissy

Hometown: TAIWAN

Length of stay in Korea: One Month
School/ Course: FU JEN Catholic University/ Clinical Psychology

Terms of tenure in CUK (Exchange student? Masters student?): 2012 CGSS program international student

2. What are your likes and dislikes?

I like tasty food, romantic & comedy movies.

I don’t like: bugs, snake, hot and humid day. Do homework, rude people~

3. What keeps you busy during your spare time? 

Play flute& piano, watch movie& TV, cook, and hang out with friends

4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea? 

The first thought I have is that most Koreans like Kimchi. 

For me, I like Hanbok (traditional costume) in Korea the most.

Also, I like the united spirit of Korean people, and the way how Korean people respect their own traditions and still proceeding to the new modern world. I like how Korean people are always energetic and willing to help. I like this country so much!!

Buddies from Abroad with BFA Coordinator Lia

5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub? 

I think CUK is working really well on promoting the school to the world. With GEO program, I can see students learning English rapidly. My impression of CUK is that its Psychology graduate program is really famous over the entire county. As a psychology major student, I want to have a chance to come to CUK to continue my studies. Also, I think CUK is working really hard to make its facilities state of the art. It is well prepared as an international hub. I love CUK, everything's just awesome!

6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students

I want to be a good buddy, a friend to GEO students. I like to learn the different perspective from either Korean students or professors. I think GEO is a really great program. I really enjoyed the company of my 2-1 class!

Christine enjoying her bonding moments with her GEO class 

7. Things you want to impart to readers 

Before I came to Korea, I was expecting that there must be a lot of differences between Korea and my hometown, Taiwan. However, once I got here, I felt a lot of similarities and harmonies. For instance, good food and great people, combination of history and modern outlook.

I especially like the dormitory in CUK. It is clean, convenient, quiet, with big rooms, and secure which is so different from the dorm back home! I really enjoyed the time here in Korea, it is just so energetic!

I came to Korea with the purpose of meeting four faces of Korea. First, traditional Korea, second, modern Korea; Third, pop Korea, and forth, the International Korea.

I am hoping that at the end of the program, I get to see so much more that I didn’t even think about! I am really looking forward to the following days here at CUK, Korea!    

Christine's picture of the GEO 28 Sports Night
GEO students happily participated in the games

 8. Message to GEO 18 students

My dear friends in GEO18, especially my beloved class 2-1! Just like what I said on the first day; I expect you guys to Enjoy, be active, keep your passion and just have fun studying English! With the intensive program of GEO, I believe that at the end, you will realize how far you’ve already gone and I want all of you to take the credit for it, for that you guys have been most amazing either in individual meeting or in classes. I am very proud of you guys and looking forward to the rest of the days, and I hope you guys enjoy this program as much as I do. Lastly, I want to quote that “A man who has a "Why" to live for, can bear almost any "How"------Frankl”.  Find your goal in English learning, and you shall never fall!!!! Fighting!!!!

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 5

GEO 18 students are privileged not to just have great professors, excellent teaching assistants. This vacation, they also enjoy the company of CUK Global Summer School (CGSS) students. A couple of CGSS are highly visible in the campus to help the GEO students. Let's get to know one of them better.

Say hi to Yvonne...

1. Personal details

Name: Yvonne Nguyen
Nickname: Vonnie
Hometown: Austin, TX
Length of stay in Korea: 4 Weeks
School/ Course: St. Edward’s University/Kinesiology
Terms of tenure in CUK (Exchange student? Masters student?): Exchange student

Yvonne with new Korean friends

2. What are your likes and dislikes?
I like to try all kinds of foods. I like to explore or go on adventures around town and I like to meet new people. I dislike mosquitoes because I really dislike getting bitten by them. I dislike it so much.

3. What keeps you busy during your spare time?
During the spare time that I do get, my family and friends keep me busy most. Usually, I would go shopping with my family and bring my dog everywhere I can. My family and I would go to the park and then go out to eat at our favorite restaurants. With my friends, we would usually enjoy the night out after school and work, eat sushi, and then go to karaoke. On other nights, we would stay in and watch a movie at home or play games.

4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?
I like Korea for its cleanliness. I like how everything is in order like in the cafeteria where people have to place the dishes in different places after they are done eating. I like the taste of the food because it is authentic and there is always Kimchi that is served with the meals. I love Kimchi.

Just outside Global Lounge

5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub?: My impression of CUK is that it is a wonderful school filled with nice people. With the International Hub as one of the first buildings I see on this campus, I hope CUK will have more international students. It is a good chance to expand the knowledge of culture of the students visiting and of the students who are already attending CUK. 

6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students
I expect to have a lot of fun with GEO and I hope to build great friendships with GEO students and learn anything new from them.

7. Things you want to impart to readers 
Living in another country on my own, even for a month, has taught me more independence. Living at home, I drive everywhere. Living here, I walk to the subway and actually take the subway to wherever I need to go. I really enjoy taking the subway because it is very efficient. I wished that there were subways where I live, but unfortunately, I have to drive everywhere, pay for gas, and be stuck in traffic for about 40 minutes before I make it to school in the morning.
8. Message to GEO 18 students:
Hello GEO students! I’ve met each and everyone of you from class and I really, really enjoy hanging out with you. I love all the new places you all have taken me out to eat. I am looking forward to meeting with you again soon! Let’s have a great month!

Another casual dinner with GEO students



Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 4

Leo with GEO friends,
pausing for a picture after they enjoyed their meal in Space
(a restaurant near CUK that is famous for their gongbi-bibimbap)

Aside from Grace, who was featured in our first article for the "Our new CGSS Friends Exposed" series, we have Leo, another friend from Taiwan. (For those who don't know, Taiwan is a neighboring country of Korea. Like South Korea, it is also part of East Asia. The distance of Korea to Taiwan is just 914.5miles/1471.7 kilometers and it only takes you two hours and three minutes via plane. )

Check out what Leo has to say about himself, GEO and his country.

1. Personal details
Name : Leo Chu (Chu-Yun-Peng~ My Chinese name :D).
Nickname : Leo.
Hometown : Taipei, Taiwan.
Length of stay in Korea : Around a month.
School/ Course : Tunghai University / International Business.
Terms of tenure in CUK (Exchange student? Masters student?) : Short term exchange student.

2. What are your likes and dislikes?
I like to communicate with people, traveling around and tea time :).

3. What keeps you busy during your spare time?
I play volleyball and hang out with friends... Reading ~

4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?
The food and people here are so nice!! It's really a good opportunity for me to learn and see everything that I just see on TV in Taiwan. I like the food, the scenery spots and all my friends here. Also, I love the way they talk, the shows .... There are still many things that are still to be discovered!!!

Leo and fellow CGSS friends during their Korean culture field trip

5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub?
The environment of the campus is quite good, and the supporters of the International Hub are nice and patient as well. Things are going good and I think I can learn a lot through this program !!

6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students
Hope I can sharpen my English skills during this program and bring joy to the students in the class. Also, I want to let them know more about Taiwan ( The first class I attended, there was a student that mixed up Taiwan with Thailand....). Hope I can know more about Korea and their culture via this nice project!!

7. Things you want to impart to readers
I'm here to learn Korean language and to experience the life in another country. Also, I'd like to do some travels and shopping during this month :).

8. Message to GEO 18 students
I do hope that they can be better in English. If they try hard to learn and speak, I believe that someday they will be good at it !!!

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 3

Another friend from United Kingdom shares information about himself and the GEO program ^^

Read on to know more about Sam. 

1. Personal details
Name: Samuel Kasim
Nickname: Sam
Hometown: London
Length of stay in Korea: 5 weeks
School: St Mary’s University College
Course: Tourism Management
Terms of tenure in CUK: Summer (Summer exchange program)


2. What are your likes and dislikes?
My likes include: being with friends and family, travelling to new destinations around the world, learning new cultures, karate training, going for long walks in the rain, reading comics, playing videogames, watching movies and going to live music events.

My dislikes include: bullying, crime, war, poverty, dance clubs/clubbing, slow computers, clothes shopping, having no friends, being lonely.


3. What keeps you busy in your spare time?
In my spare time I enjoy listening to music, watching programs (in particular anime shows and WWE wrestling. Practicing karate, studying, daydreaming, calling friends, internet surfing and spending time with my pet cats.


4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?
My impressions of Korea - a country rich in history and heritage. I was indeed correct as I have learnt a great deal of Korea’s depressing and inspiring past, and it was through this that I learned of the Korean people’s high pride and spirit. Overall my impression of Korea is a country that has overcome much sadness, a country that transformed itself into one with a hugely successful economy. The Korean people appear to be a very friendly group, though they appear to have such high national pride, some people appear to dislike foreigners while others welcome them.

I truly enjoyed meeting Korean people and socializing with them through dining, drinking, karaoke. I enjoy learning their culture and language, working directly with them in the GEO program. I enjoyed witnessing some key cultural differences, as well as trying unique dishes (such as live octopus).


5. What is your impression about CUK and its vision of becoming an international hub?
The CUK’s vision of becoming an international hub is quite inspiring considering the fact that Korean people appear to show some form of resentment to foreigners. If CUK is able to achieve this, then it could lead to a positive change of the attitudes and beliefs of Korean people towards foreigners as a whole. As globalization is a continuing trend, more people from abroad will continue to come to Korea, therefore an international hub could prove very beneficial. It is good that CUK is simply evolving in this aspect. Creating an international hub will allow people to learn other cultures and affairs around the world.


6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students
I am expecting an opportunity to learn from Korean people and gain a first hand perspective into the different cultural differences that exist. I am hoping to learn from students, in terms of fashion, daily life, education, political issues and what life is like in South Korea in general, how it differs to the life I am familiar with. I am hoping to be able to identify both differences and similarities to British culture/western culture.

I am also hoping the GEO programme can act as a gateway towards my hopeful future teaching career.

Left photo: Sam with Yoon Ji, So Hyun and Ji Young
Right photo: With Ji Young     

7. Things you want to impart to readers:
Korea and England are very different yet similar at the same time. It appears that both countries struggle with various political issues, and many of the families and individuals appear to suffer from the same life stresses (work, home/living expenses, bullying, terrorism, and life in general. They also appear to have many similar trends-such as fashion interests, musical influences and a live drinking culture.)

Despite this the major key differences I have noted the fact that Korea has appeared to continue to hold on and keep it’s vibrant, and interesting culture. While UK has kept some cultural aspects, in general, the country has simply become like a ‘smaller version of America’. Korea however is still Korea.


8. Message to GEO 18 students:
Take advantage of the opportunity to speak with foreigners and get as much information as you can from them! Ask as many questions as you want about their culture, you may never get this chance again! And make sure, no matter what happens-you don’t forget your English! Whether you travel abroad or not, it will come in handy one day.

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 2

Your industrious and skillful GEO 18 Team
Your jolly Filipino and Korean TAs

Aside from our competent Filipino and Korean Teaching Assistants, this GEO 18, we have our friends from the CUK Global Summer School (CGSS) program who are also here to help our GEO 18 students. We featured Grace during the first article of this series. Now we have another student who is part of the CGSS program. Coincidentally, he shares the same ethnicity with our resident Teaching Assistants. He is also a Filipino. You might come across him in the dormitory or during GEO events. Or he might just be the buddy assigned in your GEO class.

Continue reading to get to know more about our new CGSS friend on the block.. ^^

1. Personal details
Name: Russel Tolentino
Nickname: Russ
Hometown: London, United Kingdom
Length of stay in Korea: 5 weeks
School/ Course: St. Mary’s University College of London/ Tourism Management
Terms of tenure in CUK (Exchange student? Masters student?): Exchange Student

 2. What are your likes and dislikes?
I really love exploring and discovering diverse culture, that is why I love travelling to different places domestically and internationally. I really want to experience and see for myself how the different cultures of the world differ from each other, to find out what is unique about them.

I like making each day of my life interesting and different by learning and trying new and extraordinary things and experiences. I also love meeting new people and making lots and lots of friends.

I like red and blue! CN Blue! Maroon 5, friendly people, Philippines, and the Korean Chicken and Beer!!

I HATE seafoods, I know, I’m missing out, but I’m very allergic to them. I dislike people who are grumpy and boring and I hate losing and failing!

3. What keeps you busy during your spare time?
In my spare time, I take pleasure teaching myself how to play the guitar, listen to music and sing, hang out with my friends, read books, and go out and visit different places.

Russel with new friends from GEO

4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?
I have got to say, Korea is far different from London. The culture is very distinct and fascinating such as the language, customs and traditions, and most especially the amazing Korean food. And though the weather is not that good at all times, it is far better than London!

What I really like the most here in Korea are the people who are very respectful and helpful; everyone greet each other with smiles and bows and by randomly saying ‘annyeong hasseyo” which never fail to make my day even more perfect. I also admire how the Koreans who doesn’t speak very good English (the random people you find in the university, restaurants, shops, train station, etc.) try their very best to communicate and help me.

5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub?
I have never seen a university that is as massive as CUK, it's way too big; it’s like a whole subdivision. I could never find my way around, well, not yet! The classrooms are all fully equipped and very Westernized which makes it more of an international university. Professors are nice, helpful and very easy to approach. The campus has a relaxing mood and at the same time, lively atmosphere; it’s always clean, lots of studying areas and places to hang out during free periods, and there are a lot of friendly students too. In addition, the location of CUK is indeed accessible with lots of shops and places to eat around the area, and the nearby subway station.

As CUK operates a number of programs that allow foreign students from different countries to participate and enter the university, I personally think that it will continuously improve its chance of becoming the most internationally known Catholic university in Seoul or even in Asia that could subsequently increase its reputation.

6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students
I expect that the GEO programme will be added to the most unforgettable experiences of my life; I expect it to be very enjoyable with lots of fun and laughter! I would also like to learn many things and make lots of new friends.

For the GEO students, as a TA, I really want them to contribute as much effort as they can, try their best and participate well with all activities that are planned for them. I would like them to believe in themselves, gain lots of confidence and never give up learning English. At the end of the day, they will really benefit from this big time! Lastly and most importantly, I expect them to have such an amazing time and have lots of fun at the same time as they learn.

For the co-faculty, I hope that they would be friendly, supportive and understanding.

Russel having Pizza party at CUK school grounds

7. Things you want to impart to readers
I was born in the Philippines and lived there for 12 years; at the present time, I am a British resident who lives in London.

My life being a university student it pretty tough, university in London is really intense and it’s hard to catch up once you fall behind, so I work extra hard and have my full concentration during every lecture I take two majors to keep up and enhance my knowledge and skills. In addition, we have strict marking criteria in the UK so I make certain that all of my course works are of a high quality by doing extra researches and through intense self-study.

Living in London is nothing like Korea; very different people, language, weather, and completely different culture. However, since I have lived in Asia before, I do not find it too hard to learn the Korean culture; although there are still many differences in terms of people’s behaviour and attitudes, the food, language and traditions, I’m sure that I will adapt well with my eagerness to experience the Korean’s way of life.

8. Message to GEO 18 students

I know that learning English can be really tough, but I know that you can all do it and improve further as you go until you become fluent English speakers; this is as long as you have faith and confidence in yourself and by always keeping in mind that this can really lead you to a better future.

I would also like you all to bear in mind that ‘You will never succeed until you believe in yourself’, so I advise you all to put as much effort and interest in what you do, focus, and always do your very best.

Russell with the rest of GEO 18's Buddiesfrom Abroad

GEO 18 students, Aja Aja FIGHTING!!

Our new CGSS Friends Exposed – Part 1

Every vacation, Catholic University of Korea (CUK) hosts the CUK Global Summer School (CGSS). It's a great program for foreign students to experience Korea. Students get a glimpse of the Korean language, culture, business and politics through the courses that they take during the CGSS's one month program . They also have field trips to various famous places around Seoul. Aside from this, participants for the CGSS program were also asked if they would willingly join the Buddies from Abroad (BFA) activity of Global English Outreach (GEO) program. Those who voluntarily agreed were given task assignment for the GEO 18 English camp. Through the BFA activity, CGSS participants were able to meet new people and get firsthand experience in Korea through their newfound friends in the GEO program.

This article series will talk about the background of CGSS participants involved in the GEO program. Since GEO 18 students would be meeting a lot of BFAs, we instigated this article so we can know more about the backgrounds of our BFAs.

For our first article, let's get to know Grace from Taiwan.

Grace wears Hanbok
Photo taken in Myeongdong's Seoul Global Center
Free Hanbok Wearing Experience

1. Personal details
Name: Grace Esther Chang
Nickname: Grace
Hometown: Missouri, USA (also Taiwanese)
Length of stay in Korea: About a Month
School/ Course: Fu Jen Catholic University, Major- Finance and International Trade
Terms of tenure in CUK: CGSS(The Catholic University of Korea Global Summer School)

2. What are your likes and dislikes?
Like: Good and friendly people, making friends, sweet or tasty food, exercising, fun
Dislikes: Evil people, yucky stuff, insects


3. What keeps you busy during your spare time?
Exercising (all kinds of sports), using the computer (playing games or surfing on the Internet), sleeping, chatting with friends, eating (junk food or delicacies), going out or something, etc.


4. What is your impression about Korea? What do you like most about Korea?
Because my major is finance and international business, so my first impression about Korea is the booming economics and business of Korea. The best part I like about Korea is the people. Everyone is just so nice and friendly! I also like the scenery and the new stuff in Korea.


5. What is your impression of CUK and its Vision of becoming and International Hub?
My impression of CUK…Catholic school and has a lot of programs.

I think the International Hub is excellent! There are many programs, activities, and facilities. It’s really a good idea, and I also hope that my school in Taiwan could have it too!!


6. Expectations from GEO, GEO students
I hope that the working hours aren’t that complicated. Except for that, everything else is good. Hope the students could know Taiwan better, know us (the BFAs) better, and learn a lot. Hope that we can all have a great time!!


7. Things you want to impart to readers
Feel free to be friends with me. We could also go out to play during weekends J I really want to experience Korean culture and everything in Korea this month.

Enjoying quality time with GEO 18 students

8. Message to GEO 18 students:
The students in Class 2-2 are just so cute and friendly!! Saba and I love you guys a lot!! Hope that all the GEO students will improve in your English skills!! Though some of you have already told us that you are poor in English speaking, but we know that you can do it!! So try your best, and we will definitely help you as much as we can. Work hard and play hard. Best wishes. :)

Up Close and Personal with Professor Tom Carlaw

Now on its fourth year, Catholic University of Korea’s Global English Outreach (GEO) Program is back with a returning faculty for its GEO 18 Summer 2012 class. This summer vacation, we have  Professor Tom Carlaw to help us out during our vacation camp, . With our able line up of able faculty members, matched with the industrious and exemplary Filipino and Korean teaching assistants, the GEO Program continuous to deliver its promise of developing learners’ English-speaking abilities  through promoting inbound internationalization, without students leaving the comforts of their home country.

Continuing our feature of the GEO Professors, we interviewed Professor Tom Carlaw to get to know more about him.  This article is an addition to the  “Up Close and Personal” series which aims to give readers a glimpse about educators working for the GEO program. We asked a series of questions to our professors to get to know them a little bit better. Read on and be more acquainted with GEO’s Professor Tom Carlaw.

Meet Professor Tom Carlaw  (●＾∀＾●)

1. Where is your hometown?
My hometown is Elora, a small village in Canada. It is about an hour and a half drive from Toronto. It has a beautiful river that runs through it that is great for trout fishing, and kayaking. My family has been part of the Elora community for the past 150 years. My great grandfather had a small bank that eventually became part of the Royal Bank of Canada, and my grandmother was a well known newspaper editor and won numerous awards at a time when there were few Canadian women journalists.

Both my mother and Uncle were involved in local politics and shortly before coming to Korea, I came very close to becoming the Mayor of Centre Wellington. It was a close call for Centre Wellington, as I was very young and my inexperience would have made council meetings interesting.


2. How long have you been in Korea?
I have been in Korea since 2001. I have taught in English Academies, elementary schools, and three different universities. It has been a great experience, and I really enjoy the freedom that teaching in Korea has given me. I get to meet so many new people each year, and working with students helps to put a fresh perspective on each new day!


3. What subject do you teach here at Catholic University of Korea (CUK)?
I teach English conversation. My biggest challenge, is trying to stop myself from talking to all the interesting students I meet, and giving them a chance to talk.


4. What is your impression of CUK and it’s vision of becoming an international hub?
I am really impressed with the Global Vision at CUK and I am also more impressed at the student centred approach that they bring to this vision. The OBF lounge is a great example, and it is refreshing to see a program like GEO that is centred around the needs and interests of the students.

I think CUK is intent on providing its students with a chance to pursue their dreams, and that in the process they are creating a centre for learning that stands out in the global community.


5. What keeps you busy during your spare time?
I have six nieces and nephews that have eliminated the concept of spare time in my life. I spend my time skating and hiking with them, and we also spend some time studying English. I look forward to the day when they start teaching me Korean.


6. What do you like most about Korea?
I love the energy of Korea. It doesn't matter what time of day it is, there are people busy doing things. Sometimes I think Korea never sleeps.


7. What is your favorite Korean dish or culinary delight?
I think Kimchi Jigae is my favorite dish. Once you have spent some time in Korea and eaten Korean food, you develop a taste for red pepper, and Kimchi Jigae is my favorite way to satisfy this appetite.


8. What are your expectations from GEO, GEO students, co-faculty?
I think GEO is about growing as an individual and as part of a community. The most important ingredient in this process is a sense of humor and a sense of fun. I expect my students to have fun. I sometimes wish Nigel would be a little less serious but overall my expectations are usually exceeded.


9. For you, a good student is someone who…?
I think a good student is someone who enjoys learning. Short term results are not as important as an appetite for knowledge, and someone who has fun learning is going to enjoy success in the long run.


10. What are the things you want to impart to readers (Anything you’d like to share about yourself, your life as a student, your life as a teacher, living in your home country, living in Korea, difference of your home country and Korea, etc)?
One of my favorite quotes, from my favorite author John Irving, is, "Keep passing the open windows." Life should never be too serious and this simple piece of advice can put almost anything into perspective.


11. Message to students
In the immortal words of Spock, "Live long, and prosper"

Professor Tom C. with GEO Class 2-1

By: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor