Q1. Please introduce yourself.
Annyeonghaseyo! My name is Jason Tan, and I am a 25-year-old from Singapore. I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Psychology. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have a unique hobby that brings me joy — cardistry. Cardistry allows me to take a break from the demands of daily life and immerse myself in the art of playing cards.
Q2. Why did you choose Korea and SKKU?
South Korea has always been my dream destination due to my profound love for its culture and cuisine. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) stood out because of its summer course, Introduction to Social Problems. Since I major in Social Work, my current skills and knowledge are primarily applicable to Singapore. However, I also understood that social issues vary across countries due to cultural, political, and geographical factors. This course offered a chance to explore how different nations tackle their particular social problems, and made me look forward to learning from international students’ experiences in their home countries. Combining my passion for Korean culture with the educational opportunities SKKU provided, it was an ideal choice for my exchange program.
Q3. How was your life at SKKU?
Life at SKKU has been truly amazing. Everyone I encountered here has been welcoming and positive, creating a fantastic atmosphere. Interestingly, the pandemic led to my Singaporean university shifting all classes online, making it challenging to build friendships even as a third-year student. However, during the summer exchange at SKKU, I made a lot more friends than I expected. The experience has been enriching, and I feel grateful for the friendships I have formed during my time at SKKU.
Q4. How was your time in Korea different from other places?
Korea’s charm lies in its multifaceted nature, from its vibrant nightlife to its unique heritage. Immersing myself in the Korean language and witnessing the beauty of its nature has been incredible. Most importantly, the locals here are so warm and welcoming, which has made my time in Korea unforgettable. Describing my extraordinary time in Korea is a challenge, and I urge anyone reading this article to experience it firsthand. Only then can you fully understand the brilliance of this country.