As I look back on 2024, a whirlwind year filled with challenges, growth, and moments of triumph, I realize there are things I did right—and others I wish I had done differently. For all of you preparing to embark on your journey of studying in Korea, here are my dos and don’ts from a year of navigating life as a graduate student at the Utah Asia Campus in Songdo, South Korea.

The Dos: What I Got Right

1. Embrace Local Culture and Language Learning Korean has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. From connecting with local shopkeepers to engaging in deeper conversations with peers, studying the language has opened doors. Take advantage of language exchange programs or even apps like HelloTalk to practice daily.
2. Get Involved on Campus Joining clubs like the boxing club or the Black Student Union allowed me to form friendships and explore interests outside of academics. Clubs are a fantastic way to integrate into campus life, especially for international students who might feel homesick at first.
3. Stay Organized with Assignments Graduate school is demanding, but developing a habit of planning ahead made a world of difference. Tools like Notion, Google Calendar, and Trello kept me on track, especially for balancing classwork, my role as a TA, and extracurricular activities.
4. Travel and Explore Korea Studying in Korea isn’t just about academics. Traveling to Jeju, Gyeongju, or even the backstreets of Incheon gave me a broader understanding of Korean culture. Take the chance to explore during holidays—you’ll regret it if you don’t