UEF Students Embrace Korean Life And Culture After Their First Week Abroad

After completing their first week at Tongmyong University (South Korea), UEF students have quickly adapted to an international learning environment while gaining valuable academic and cultural experiences. In addition to engaging with globally oriented coursework, they have gradually immersed themselves in Korean culture, embraced local life, and built meaningful connections with international peers.

Within just one week, UEF students have successfully settled into their new international learning environment.

During the first week, the students officially began the Global Strategic Management course, which is delivered entirely in English. Studying, participating in discussions, and exchanging ideas with professors and international classmates have helped them strengthen their English communication skills, enhance critical thinking, and gradually adapt to the teaching methods of an international university.

Beyond the classroom, Tongmyong University has also impressed the students with its modern campus surrounded by nature. Nestled on a hillside overlooking the sea, the university and its residence halls feature abundant green spaces and well-equipped facilities, including a fitness center, sports courts, and laundry services, providing a comfortable and supportive living and learning environment throughout the program.

After only a few days, the students quickly became accustomed to daily life in Busan. Using public transportation, making electronic payments, and adapting to everyday routines soon became second nature. The support and companionship of classmates, professors, Korean students, and Vietnamese international students at Tongmyong University also helped the UEF delegation settle into their new environment with confidence and ease.

Courses conducted entirely in English have significantly enhanced the students' language proficiency.

Alongside academic studies, the program also offers a variety of enriching cultural experiences. According to Tongmyong University's schedule, international students participate in cultural exchange activities and visits to some of Busan's most iconic attractions every Friday. During the first week, UEF students had the opportunity to meet Korean students, learn about local traditions and culture, exchange study and daily life experiences, and participate together in extracurricular activities organized by the university.

Reflecting on her first week, Pham Ngoc Linh Chi, a Business Administration student in UEF's Honors Program, shared:

"What impressed me most was Busan's vibrant lifestyle. At first, walking along the city's steep hills was quite challenging, but after just a few days, my body adapted and I began to fully appreciate the city's beauty. The courses at Tongmyong University are truly engaging and have broadened my perspective beyond what I learned at UEF. More importantly, I've become more confident in communicating and connecting with international friends. Although I'm naturally introverted, I challenged myself to start conversations with Korean students and even learned some basic Korean phrases to help me integrate more easily. I realized that opportunities to learn are always around us—as long as we're willing to take the initiative."

Students explored Korea's natural landscapes and local cuisine.

Outside the classroom, the students also participated in various outdoor activities, including trekking, beach volleyball with international students, and skincare and makeup workshops led by Korean beauty experts. During the weekend, they explored Busan independently, sampled local cuisine, discovered useful digital services for daily life, and experienced the vibrant rhythm of one of South Korea's most dynamic coastal cities.

For Vo Tran Ngoc Tram, an International Business student in the Honors Program, every day at Tongmyong University has brought new discoveries.

"I've had the opportunity to experience an international teaching approach, learn from distinguished professors, and interact with Korean students in a friendly and open environment. Walking to campus with friends through beautiful green streets and participating in cultural activities have made this study abroad journey even more memorable."

She also expressed her excitement about continuing to explore more of Busan's attractions, culture, and cuisine while creating unforgettable memories throughout the international semester.

UEF students have actively engaged with international peers, demonstrating their enthusiasm for learning and global collaboration.

In the coming weeks, the delegation will continue studying the Global Citizenship course while participating in additional cultural exchange programs and educational excursions organized by Tongmyong University. The international semester is expected to provide students not only with valuable academic knowledge but also with a broader global perspective, stronger language proficiency, enhanced intercultural competencies, and unforgettable experiences that will support their personal and professional growth.

Center for Information and Communication
Photos: UEF Student Delegation in South Korea