In our book, (Seoul National University, Language Education Institute) Level 4 there is one chapter entitled “우물 안의 개구리가 될 거예요”, which means “we should not be like a frog on the well”. Before, I can easily say anything regarding about Korea or life in Korea but when the first time I came here, it seems that everything I knew was just a spark of a big forest fire.
There are so many things I should learn not only language but also culture and way of life. First time is really hard and no one can question that fact, all foreign students should experience this process in able to cope up with the big changes that could happen in our life.

Can you imagine yourself in the midst of unknown people talking in unknown language? Skipping breakfast and eating the same burger from Popeye’s Fast Food Chain every lunch or buying instant noodles and threw it after if the taste doesn’t fit your taste buds?

Find your way around using a confusing trolley system or looking over and over to the subway map and afraid that you might get lost or can’t go back home and finally giving up going out, pay the rent to a landlord who doesn't understand you, or figure out how to use a inexplicable contraption that people insist is a washing machine?

This was not a fun introduction to studying abroad but those experiences teach me as much as any formal class. Many of us live independently for the first time... "       

My study abroad forced me to do more things on my own and I learned so much about myself and grew so much knowing that I can do things by myself”. First time is not easy, it is 100% difficult, but still, I have two options, to fulfill the reason why I am here or give up and accept that I can’t live in another place.

I took a risk and put myself in unusual situations and able to overcome a fear of the unknown. I get used to solving problems under tough circumstances and by the time I will get home, I can say, “I did my best and my experience is enough to prove that”.

Guys, do not fear of facing difficulties, do not compare your “before and after”, try to live in a way that you will enjoy. Forget about stress and complains; try to accept realities and you will understand life better.

Study hard and always keep a smile within your heart. Bobby