Claudia Daniela is studying Culinary Art and won the uni scholarship to study at Hallym University in South Korea.
When you entered Uni did you know there were international programs?
Yes, in fact it was one of the main reasons for me to stay at the university; it is impressive the connection with different countries and the ease of mobility that the university provides.
When you entered your career, did you think you would go to live and study abroad?
It was a motivation from the beginning, I didn't know I would make it, but I always strived to be a candidate. So, when I found out that I made it, it was happiness and satisfaction at the same time.
Have you ever lived or studied outside of Mexico before?
No, thanks to other projects I had the opportunity to participate in online programs in other countries and win a pass to be in Brazil, unfortunately the pandemic started and these plans were cancelled; so this being the first time makes it even more special.
What prompted or motivated you to study in another country?
The simple fact of learning, I am an enthusiast for new cultures, to be able to have the experience of learning from another educational system, absorbing different perspectives on things, is something that filled me with enthusiasm.
Why did you decide to study in that country?
Simply the culture, Mexican culture to Korean culture have many differences, thanks to social media you can visualize some, however, it was lake that I wanted to experience on my own and it was definitely an unforgettable experience.
How did you feel when you arrived in the new country?
It was completely turning around what I was used to, completely leaving my comfort zone, learning from scratch manners to adapt to the customs and society, understanding the way of dressing and even changing the taste of the foods I was used to, as well as adding to my diet foods that were not so common before, all these changes made me feel lost at the beginning, but as the days went by, the experience became fascinating and a lot of learning.
How have you been received at the university where you arrived?
I was surprised by the kindness and speed of all the staff, from our first days the managers were very attentive to all our requirements, as well as they were always alert in case we had any problem with in my case the blocking of my bank cards and my email.
What will you miss most about Mexico and UNI?
Of course, in addition to the food I was used to, the feeling of warmth of all the people around you, whether you know them or not, as well as having people related to your career with similar knowledge to share and develop, specifically in my case, in the gastronomic subject, although I can have interesting conversations with people about gastronomy, there are related concepts and terms that are not so easy to explain or understand.
What is the most exciting thing you have experienced so far in this experience?
I consider that every day I spend here is exciting, Korea is a country full of surprises, the simple fact of being able to cross the country in one day just with your cell phone in your hand and your "T money card", or eating food that you had never thought of, even being a tourist one day and the next day becoming a climber, thanks to everything that this country has, makes this trip an adventure.
And the hardest part?
Of course loneliness, although it has wonderful things, it is true that it is a very individualistic country and, that is, coming from a country as sociable as Mexico, the change is noticeable, because each person here concentrates on his or her own affairs.
What do you expect as a person and as a professional from this experience?
I am sure that so far I have broadened my mind and my perspective of what awaits me in the world, my hunger to explore and develop more of my skills grew, as well as my social skills in other languages, the fact of going out of your comfort zone gives you a very vast learning experience.
Do you recommend these opportunities provided by Uni to your colleagues?
Yes, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity that is difficult to obtain by other means, so if you are ready and have the opportunity; it is best to take it as soon as possible. Thanks to all who supported me in this great adventure!