Tell us a little bit about your experience. For starters, why did you choose the program that you did?
I chose the Yonsei University summer program in Seoul because of my passion for the Korean music industry and culture. As a Marketing Management major, I wanted a program that would let me connect what I’ve learned in the classroom with real-world experiences, while also deepening my understanding of a global market I hope to work in one day. Being in Korea gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture that has influenced so much of my career interests, especially K-pop and fan engagement, and it felt like the perfect step toward my long-term goal of working in music marketing.
What did you gain from the experience?
I gained a stronger sense of cultural awareness by immersing myself in daily life in Seoul and experiencing how people connect through music, community, and tradition. The program also pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, helping me build confidence, independence, and adaptability that I know will stay with me long after the experience.
What unique Experiential Global Learning opportunities did you encounter during your time?
A unique opportunity I had was experiencing the K-pop scene in Seoul firsthand. One of the most memorable moments was attending SBS Gayo Daejeon, a live year-end music broadcast I had only ever watched online for years. Being in the audience and witnessing the performances and fan culture up close gave me a completely new perspective on the industry. It was a surreal experience that not only deepened my cultural awareness but also reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in music marketing.
How has Experiential Global Learning helped you to understand and appreciate your program’s field of study?
Experiential Global Learning helped me see marketing in action on a global scale. Being in Seoul, I was able to observe how K-pop artists and their teams strategically engage fans through events, live broadcasts like SBS Gayo Daejeon, and immersive experiences that build loyalty and community. Witnessing these real-world marketing strategies firsthand gave me a deeper understanding of how branding, audience engagement, and cultural context work together to create powerful, lasting connections.
What would you say is your most memorable moment from the trip?
It’s so difficult to pick one moment from hundreds of memorable moments from the trip. Everyday felt like a journey and I truly tried my hardest to make every moment memorable. If I had to pick one though, I would pick my weekend away to Busan. I was able to get away on a weekend trip to Busan with my closest friends from the program. Getting out of Seoul and exploring a different part of Korea—walking along the beaches, trying local foods, and seeing the city come alive—was incredible. What made it truly special, though, was sharing those experiences with friends I had grown close to over the summer. It reminded me how much travel isn’t just about the places you see, but the people you share it with.
Tip(s) you’d give for future students participating in a program or those who are just starting to think about an experience
My biggest tip for future students is to be open to stepping outside your comfort zone—whether it’s exploring a new city, trying unfamiliar foods, or meeting new people. The more you immerse yourself in the experience, the more you’ll gain from it, both personally and professionally. Also, take the time to connect with the people around you; the friendships and connections you make often become the most memorable part of the program.