Hong, Britney

Britney Hong

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I wanted to study abroad because I've never had much international experience. I also had never visited Asia. As an Asian American, I knew that I wanted one of my first international experiences to be in Asia. I heard great things about the Yonsei study abroad program in Seoul, and everything lined up in my favor to move to Seoul for 4 months.

What did you learn about yourself?
I learned how to be more independent than I could have ever imagined if I had stayed in Chapel Hill. My parents were not a drive away from me anymore and my community was so far from me. I learned how to build another community from the ground up. While finding a community, I also learned more about myself, my freedom, and my independence. I also became a stronger communicator because I had to find new ways to keep in touch with my family and friends at home to substitute the quality in-person time such as sending letters or intentionally scheduling FaceTime calls that would align with time differences. I also became a stronger communicator because I couldn't use the English language anymore which forced me to rely on body language and facial expressions more. Lastly,

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories was dining in at the same KBBQ place in Sinchon every Thursday. While me and my friends were in a foreign place across the world from home, we found comfort in visiting the same restaurant where we would discuss the past week.

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
Studying abroad is not all fun and rainbows. There will be some low moments where you are really sad and miss home, but that's normal. The low moments provide an opportunity for some really high moments. All feelings will pass, and the time will go by fast so enjoy it while you can!

How do you identify?
Student of color, First Generation College Student

Memories