A Dream I Never Thought Possible
As the plane touched down at Incheon International Airport, a flood of memories from my school days at Kerens ISD and la Escuela Primaria Pánfilo Natera washed over me. I thought of the afternoons spent tackling college-level math, seeking help from Mr. Nick, and the sun-drenched entrance of my elementary school in Mexico, where my brother and I would wait for our mom to drop off lunch.
Back then, I never imagined that higher education – let alone studying in a foreign country – would be within my reach. Yet here I was, stepping off a plane in South Korea, ready to begin my journey at one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Embarking on a Life-Changing Opportunity
This semester, I have the amazing opportunity to study abroad at Seoul National University (SNU). I’m majoring in economics and Asian studies, and my journey to SNU began during my first year at The University of Texas at Austin.
My professors, Dr. Campos and Dr. Sáenz, encouraged me to apply for the First Abroad Scholarship – an opportunity I never imagined possible. When I received the scholarship, it changed everything. From that moment on, I knew I had to make my dream of studying abroad a reality.
After years of planning and anticipation, I am finally here and ready to embrace this experience fully. Attending SNU is especially meaningful knowing that my Asian studies professor, Dr. Oh, also studied here. Her passion and encouragement has been invaluable; she is a great role model.
Starting School at Seoul National University
Moving into the dorms at SNU was an exciting experience, especially since I had never lived in a dorm before, not even at UT Austin. After completing the check-in process and settling into my room, I met many new people, each with their own unique background and story.
Since then, our dorm lounge has become a gathering space where we talk, laugh and share our stories. One of my favorite aspects of living here has been practicing Korean in the dorm and everywhere else in Seoul. I am incredibly grateful to Professor Mina Kim back at UT Austin for the solid foundation she gave me. Her guidance shaped me into the student I am today.
It snowed on the Tuesday that classes began. Experiencing snowfall on my way to class made the moment even more surreal for a Texan like me. My first class was International Trade, and I was immediately drawn in. Learning economics through a global perspective excites me, and I can already tell this course will be challenging and inspiring.
In addition to an economics class, I am taking Understanding Asian Philosophy, Korean Law, Advanced Spanish Conversation and an intensive Korean Language course at the SNU Language Education Institute. Each class has been rewarding in its own way.
Philosophy has always fascinated me, but my interest deepened after being inspired by my best friend at UT Austin, a philosophy major. Korean Law is an incredibly unique course. Each week we are taught by different professors from SNU’s esteemed law school. My Korean class is demanding but essential, and every lesson helps me improve my language skills.
My favorite class so far has been Advanced Spanish Conversation. It’s taught by Professor Claudia Macías Rodríguez, a brilliant professor from Jalisco, right next to my home state of Zacatecas. I never expected to have the opportunity to speak Spanish in South Korea, and this class has introduced me to an amazing group of friends who share an interest in my language and love the culture.
Finding Community and Adventure in Seoul
The friendships I’ve made at SNU have made my time here even more fulfilling. Through a buddy program, I’ve connected with students from all over the world. I have also joined a Spanish language organization where I meet my friends from Spanish class and other SNU students interested in learning the language.
Seoul continues to amaze me – the efficient subway system, vibrant night markets and the stunning contrast between modern skyscrapers and ancient palaces. Every day here brings something new, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
This post was contributed by Faustino Rodriguez, a Global Ambassador for Spring 2025. Faustino is a junior studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea.
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