This summer I attended the Global and Cross-Cultural Marketing (A Case Study of K-Culture) study abroad program in South Korea. This was my first study abroad experience and my first time travelling out of the country. The purpose of this program was to look at some of South Korea’s big global companies and examine their cross-cultural marketing skills and strategies, while also learning more about the Korean culture.

This program was especially special to me as I am Korean American, and it was my first time visiting my family’s native land. I always dreamed about what it would be like to go to South Korea for the first time, and this study abroad definitely made it memorable. This program enabled me to learn more about my culture and dive deep into my heritage. Whether it was visiting historical places, wearing traditional clothing, eating traditional food, or speaking the native language, I felt very close to my culture. I am not a native speaker; I am not fluent in the Korean language, but I am currently studying Korean as one of my minors. It was difficult at first to adjust to the language, but it got easier as the program went on. South Korea definitely challenged my Korean speaking abilities, but it made me a lot more comfortable with my speaking and broaden my knowledge of the language. As a result, I can now say I feel closer with my family, and I am able to connect more with them on a different level.

In the end, my experience in South Korea was transformative. It gave me a deeper appreciation for my culture, sharpened my academic goals, and helped me with my personal identity. This program was an amazing first experience and I will forever be grateful for this opportunity.

Name: Mina Yoo
Status: Sophomore
Major: Arts and Humanities (RCAH)
Hometown: Haslett, Michigan
Program: Global & Cross-cultural Marketing: Case Study of K-culture