Elvia Susana is studying International Business and was awarded the Uni Scholarship to study for a semester in South Korea.
When you entered Uni did you know there were international programs?
Yes, I knew since high school that you could apply for exchange programs.
When you entered your career, did you think you would go to live and study abroad?
Yes, since I started my degree I decided that I wanted to go to Korea when I completed the required semesters.
Have you ever lived or studied outside of Mexico before?
Never.
What prompted or motivated you to study in another country?
One of the reasons was to get to know the Korean culture closely since I have always been interested in it, to meet people from other countries and be able to share our cultures, to have the opportunity to learn a new language and to improve my English.
Why did you decide to study in that country?
I decided on Korea because as I mentioned I am very interested in their culture, also because I knew they had a good study program and another reason is because I wanted to study in a completely different country.
How did you feel when you arrived in the new country?
I will not deny that I felt terrified, but at the same time excited, the first few days you can't believe you are even on the other side of the world.
How have you been received at the university where you arrived?
From the first contact I had with them they were super nice, from the moment you are in the process they help you. Once you arrive in Korea you have a person to help you with whatever you need, the teachers and classmates are very kind and they also care about you.
What will you miss most about Mexico?
The food! I'm not going to lie, Korean food is delicious but I can't deny my roots. And I miss my family and friends.
What about the Uni?
To my friends and the facilities of the Uni.
What is the most exciting thing you have experienced so far in this experience?
The most exciting thing was to share very special moments with new friends, I think that what I was most excited and surprised about is that even though we are so different, we have the same tastes and the same problems, to have shared what Mexico is and to have known new cultures is something incomparable.
And the hardest part?
The language and communication, each person has different ideas and communicating them in a language that is not the main one you speak is the most complicated because many times there are misunderstandings and also you must have an open mind for many situations.
And finally, be aware that this experience is not forever.
What do you expect as a person and as a professional from this program?
Personally trust, tolerance, respect, experience, independence and being grateful..
Professionally, new contacts, learning a new language and improving my English and knowledge related to my subjects.
Do you recommend these opportunities provided by Uni to your colleagues?
Of course, you don't have to think about it, just apply.
It is an incredible opportunity, if you are not chosen the first time or you did not get the country you wanted, don't be discouraged, do better and reapply for the scholarship.