My study abroad experience almost ended one week before it began, when I discovered my passport and visa were stolen from the Korean Consulate’s mailbox. Luckily, after several back-and-forth phone calls and an urgent flight to Dallas, I had everything I needed to board my flight.
I had dreamed of visiting South Korea since my senior year of high school, when I first listened to BTS and fell in love with the language and culture.
When applying for colleges, my top requirement was a strong study abroad program and a good physics program, and The University of Texas at Austin checked both boxes. After a memorable Maymester in Seville, Spain, I knew I had to do another exchange, and South Korea was the obvious choice.
As my courses became less flexible, I knew studying abroad would take a lot of careful planning, especially since I’d need to take upper-division physics while abroad.
I applied to the prestigious S.K.Y. universities, which offer courses in line with UT Austin’s course requirements. After a nerve-wracking two-month wait, I received my acceptance to Korea University, and that’s when the real preparations began.
My travel planning kicked into full swing, from researching housing to booking flights and gathering documents — culminating in the last-minute passport excursion. Despite every roadblock, I reminded myself that 18-year-old Phoebe’s dream was worth it. After getting my passport, I was finally on a 14-hour flight to Seoul.
First Impressions
An immersive experience began the moment I boarded the plane. Hearing conversations in Korean throughout the flight motivated me to brush up on the language with a few Duolingo lessons.
The beauty of Korea from above took my breath away. The gray, expansive water gave way to the green, mountainous landscape, with streaming rivers stretching through the valleys. The trees abruptly changed to skyscrapers, and I knew we were flying over Seoul. The sheer size of the city left me in awe.
Navigating the subway for the first time, I marveled at the efficiency and speed, even though I’d barely crossed half of the city in an hour’s ride. I love how the subway makes it easy to hop between neighborhoods, and each feels like a world of its own.
The city was built to accommodate Seoul’s population of 10 million. One building may contain a café, PC bang, restaurant, market and goshiwon (this is where I live!). I often spend hours walking through the captivating streets before settling in one of the many cafés offering unique aesthetics and delicious desserts.
Exploring Seoul
In the month I’ve been here, I’ve immersed myself in both the modern and traditional sides of Seoul. From the bustling Myeongdong shopping district to watching light shows at Dongdaemun Plaza and the Han River, there has not been a moment of boredom.
Yet there’s also space to reconnect with history and nature, like visiting the serene Gyeongbokgung Palace or running along the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
I’ve also enjoyed diving into Korea’s food scene, from gimbap at 7-Eleven to Michelin-star mandu. I’m constantly surprised by the delicious variety—tteokbokki, seolleongtang, naengmyeon, just to name a few favorites—and have started trying to cook a few Korean dishes myself!
Academic and Personal Growth
My decision to study in Seoul was driven more by my interest in the culture than academics, but I’ve realized just how much I’m growing in both areas. Adapting to life in Korea has challenged me in ways I didn’t expect.
I anticipated a quick adjustment after having been abroad in Spain, but I still miss aspects of life familiar to me in Austin, such as early-morning run clubs or making dinner with my boyfriend. Homesickness is a real part of this experience, but I’m learning to enjoy my own company and find joy through solo adventures.
Academically, it’s been an adjustment too. Without the safety net of my friends and familiar routines, I’ve had to push myself to stay motivated.
Between balancing my classes, applying for Ph.D. programs and publishing my research paper, this semester abroad will leave me with more than just fun stories: It’s shaping me into a more disciplined, confident and resilient student.
Looking Forward
Reflecting on my first month in Seoul, I’m excited to continue deepening my connection with the city and its culture. I’ve already learned so much about myself and the world around me, and I can’t wait to see how the next few months unfold.
Whether hiking mountains, visiting Busan or simply mastering the art of balancing adventure with responsibility, I know this experience will leave a lasting impact that I will share for years to come.
This post was contributed by Phoebe Mahlin, a Global Ambassador for Fall 2024. Phoebe is a senior studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea.
Thank you for sharing your experience Phoebe. I am so happy that you were able to fulfill your experience in South Korea.