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Viyada Soukthavone

About My Study Abroad Program

Major/Minor: Media and Journalism, minor in Public Policy
Program: Carolina Spring Forward - Korea University
Location: Seoul, South Korea
Email: viyadaso@ad.unc.edu
Term: Spring 2024

 

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I chose to study abroad because I am eager to learn more about unique cultures worldwide and diversify my education. As an aspiring journalist, I desire to travel to different countries, photograph stories of the people I meet, and dedicate my time to protecting journalists pursuing international coverage. My academic passions heavily intertwined and influenced my desire to study abroad. As a first-generation, low-income student, I knew I would face barriers to achieving this goal, but when I opened my acceptance letter to UNC-Chapel Hill, I felt nothing but gratitude. I received a full scholarship to the Carolina Spring Forward Program. Upon selecting my program destination, I was interested in the media landscape of Seoul, South Korea. Among the K-wave surfing through the US and various other countries, the rich history of South Korea is full of honor and culture. I was eager to explore cities within cities, learn from locals, and immerse myself in the country. Selecting Korea University was a decision I’ll never forget because it fostered my values of community, ambition, and cultural diversity.

 

What did you learn about yourself?
I pride myself on my commitment to widening my worldview and learning from the people around me, but I discovered this commitment was more small-minded than I realized. Advocating centered on social justice issues in the US, with marginalized groups of color, ability, and gender/sexuality, and I had minimal knowledge of world news. Through my classes and listening to students from around the world, I learned more about international conflict, humanitarian crises within smaller countries, North Korean defectors, and Korean history. These topics massively shifted my worldview, and I am more dedicated to continue researching and listening to these stories. I often felt that I had no place in the discourse surrounding international affairs or politics, but I learned how essential younger generations are for these conversations.  I have learned to trust my judgments and know that my voice matters. Moving to another country for four months was daunting, especially after only one semester of university. My family and I never traveled outside the country, let alone rode a plane, so my experience in South Korea was full of firsts. I discovered my value of independence and my love of meeting new people. Starting conversations with other students, learning from elders, and diversifying my education are things I hope to carry with me throughout my life.

 

What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
One of my favorite memories from my program was Ipselenti, a concert hosted by Korea University that invited K-pop, R&B, and rap musicians to campus. The week before the concert, food trucks, sponsored booths, and student organizations invited students to join the fun of the annual event. It was so exciting to witness the vibrant school spirit of KU students. It reminded me of UNC students and their love and pride in their university. Each day, different student dance groups would perform, singers would cover songs, and artists like Illit, Apink, Kiss of Life, and NMIXX would end the night with unforgettable performances. This excitement carried through the week as students began guessing which artists would headline Ipselenti. During Ipselenti, my friends and I were beyond excited. With a spot close to the gate, we had a close view of artists and KU student leaders. Sprinkles of water would fall upon students, and beams of fire would illuminate the stage as music echoed throughout the stadium. Alongside performances of Dynamic Duo, Jannabi, New Jeans, and AKMU, there were cheering events with KU students. The school spirit of KU students is unmatched, and I am so grateful to have a small part of it with me for the rest of my life. The concert ended with a fireworks show that was so memorable. My friends and I watched the sky light up with gold, red, and silver sparks, and it all felt so euphoric. The night felt like a farewell to South Korea and my study-abroad experience. I was so grateful for the friends I found and so happy to grow with them. I learned how important it is to live in the moment and find beauty in our lives. With the energy of the performances, the community of KU students, and the warmth of my friends, I’ll always cherish it.

 

What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
My advice for students who face uncertainties while they are abroad is to know that all students share similar worries and that there are support systems they can lean on. Students will saturate their abroad stories with fun excursions with their friends or sightseeing in new places, but they forget to highlight academic stress, cultural nuances, and homesickness. There is so much change in a limited time. Students may feel they should quickly adapt to their new surroundings, which can be overwhelming. During midterms, I could not balance my academics while staying connected with my family back home. This disconnect caused anxiety about missing out on my family and friendships at UNC, and I began to isolate myself and stress. While at my worst, I leaned on my friends and planned to message my family weekly to stay connected. When I shared my stressors, my friends began to share their own. It was comforting knowing that despite going through this experience in our unique ways, some things are universal, which makes it feel less stressful. I talked to my API Director, and she advised me to create routines that established balance. Among organizations on campus, KU students were eager to meet foreigners and invite them to events they hosted. I would encourage students to have an open mind when meeting new people and prioritize their mental well-being abroad.

 

How do you identify?
Student of color, LGBTQ+, First Generation College Student, Scholarship Recipient

Memories