I finally reached the end of my six-week study abroad program in Seoul, South Korea. The time went faster than I had expected, as I felt like my first days of classes were just yesterday. On the very last day, I attended my graduation ceremony to commemorate the completion of the 2025 Yonsei International Summer School program.
That day, there was a sense of community that I could feel, as it took place in the same building as the student orientation at the beginning of the program. Originally, I saw everyone as strangers. As I leave, many students, including myself, have had the chance to meet others from all over the world. Some whom we may never see again. It doesn't take away from the memories everyone has created together.
After listening to the speakers and watching performances from students and the Yonsei cheering team, I prepared for the cap toss to formally conclude the ceremony. Counting down, cheering as the caps all flew through the air to celebrate the end of our journey as 2025 Yonsei International Summer School students.
YISS Graduation Ceremony
Looking back, these six weeks flew by. I know I am not the same person as I was when I first arrived in Seoul. I have learned from what I had to overcome, which taught me how to grow as a person.
Being a student at Yonsei University has given me an incredible college experience that differs completely from my home university regarding the lifestyle, environment, academics, campus, and student life.
During my time here, I had to understand the change in mindset that comes when going abroad. Stepping out of your own comfort zone is inevitable, but the sooner I began to really immerse myself and learn to handle any possible setbacks, the more I was able to make the most of being in a new place surrounded by new people and opportunities.
I learned to prioritize myself with how I wanted to spend my time here. Whether it was with other people or with myself, I had many group and solo travels. I planned most of my days, but I also pushed myself to be spontaneous sometimes, which led to some enjoyable adventures.
Final moments on campus
Saying goodbye may be the toughest part of this whole experience overall. The reality is that, for me, it may not have seemed like it at first. As I was packing up to head back to the U.S., I was able to think back about how much everything had changed. After all of these adventures, new friends, and a new sense of self, I left with a lot more than what I had expected coming into all of this.
I will always carry the memories of my time here, the new culture I experienced, the places I discovered, the new dishes that I tried, and everything I learned in and out of my classes, along with some wonderful people I got to share it with.
I would like to leave this all on a positive note: It is not truly goodbye, but see you later, Seoul.