Seoul Exchange Week: Don't Forget!

Preparing for an exchange can be rather stressfull. Time flies, you have to say goodbye to your loved ones and packing is usually one of your last priorities. I know it is mine. However, there are a few things you should think about, when packing. Not just the weight limit but most importantly, what you should bring extra off.

Seoul is big and can provide you with everything you are looking for however somethings are a little bit harder to find, or are unnecceserily expensive. If you have extra space in your suitcase, consider bringing a few extra of these.

Deodorant

Deodorant is finally being sold in Korea however the mark-up is ridiculous. So bring your favorite brand and bring many! (be carefull with flight regulations when it comes to aeroseol deodorants though).

Towels

Another thing you can find plenty of, however unless you like drying yourself with a handtowel I would recommend you bring some towels.

Shoes and Clothes

Seoul has plenty of places to shop, unfortunately something it doesn't have a wide array of are sizes. If you wear anything larger then a large, or shoes sizes larger then US size 9 for men or a US size 8 for women I would suggest bringing some extra clothes.  (not sure about your size, here is a clothing chart).

Bedding

If you stay in a dorm, or try to find your own oneroom or goshi, changes are that sheets won't be provided. Comforters arn't that pricey and quite easy to find. Western style single sized sheets and pillow cases however are incredibly expensive so if you have a bit of extra room in your suitcase I suggest you bring an extra sheet.

For the Ladies

Us women have it a bit harder then most guys. Not only are we more picky about clothing but some of our neccesities are incredibly hard to find. Things such as bras, tampons, tongs and perhaps your favorite pads are a thing you should definately bring.

For people that are also in Seoul, what are things you would suggest on bringing?

Love, Wietske

Seoul Exchange Week: Facebook must Follows

Every exchange student should have a facebook, not to keep in touch with the copious amounts of new people you will meet but also to keep up to date with all that is happening in your new city.

Going on exchange in seoul and want to know whats up? These facebook pages are a must follow.

 

ISAK.or.kr International Student Association in Korea.

ISAK is established to introduce Korean culture to international students currently studying in Korea. Post about parties, but mostly free opportunities for foreign students. Remember the movie review I posted about Northern Limit Line? I could watch that movie for free thanks to ISAK.

 

KINSA.org Korea International Student Association

Post mostly information about part-time jobs but also has volunteer opportunities and postings about language exchange

 

AngloINFO.Seoul

Good source for all your news in English and articles about interesting aspects of Korean culture.

 

FeelSeoul

How can I leave out my own page when talking about important facebook pages? Like my page and you will know straight away when I post a new article!

Other facebook pages that are important to follow are the page of your own exchange school and their buddy group.

What are your Seoul Must Follows?

Love, Wietske

Seoul Exchange Week: 5 reasons why you Too should study in Seoul

A new semester is starting next month, which means not only back to school preparations are starting but some of you might even go on an exciting new journey and go on exchange. Now that not much time is left you might get a bit of cold feet. We all know the reasons that we tell our parents, personal development and it looks good on your resume, but this is why you should really go on exchange.

International Friends

The best reason is that you will meet many people from all over the world. Because you all share a similar adventure you will be close within no time, and an added benefit you will have a place to crash in any country in the world!

Cheap Travel

Just admit it, you don't go on exchange to improve your GPA, take it easy and enjoy. Don't only go sightseeing in your new host country but don't hesitate to visit neighboring countries for cheap!

Another point of View

Maybe you did come to learn something, the classes your exchange school offers might be nothing new but what is different is the point of view. Suddenly you won't only hear opinions from people with the same background as you, but from people from all over the world, and that is something you will take with you forever.

Adventures Everywhere

You don't need to go far to go on an adventure. Just turn the corner and there will be something new for you to discover, don't be scared and explore! Walk around your new neighborhood and there will always be something interesting that happens.

Learn a new Language

Or improve an old one. During my time as an exchange student I didn't only learn Korean I also improved my English, German and even my French. There are so many nationalities that there is always someone that is willing to help you brush up on your language skills. However, don't be surprised if the ability to speak your mother tongue will deteriorate rather quickly.


What is the reason you are going on exchange?

Love, Wietske