COUNTRY: South Korea
CITY: Asan HOST Institution: Soonchunhyang University TYPE OF PROGRAM: UNI Exchange
SESSIONS: Semester (Fall and Spring), or Academic Year ELIGIBILITY:Sophomore or above, 2.5 minimum GPA FIELDS OF STUDY: Business, Economy, Asian Studies, Korean, Non-western, International Studies (Classes will be opened with a minimum of
10 students. Not all classes will be open every semester)
LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION: English CREDITS:Undergraduate, Graduate
INTRODUCTION
Officially the Republic of Korea, South Korea is a state on the southern half of the
Korean Peninsula. To the north, it is bordered by North Korea (Democratic
People's Republic of Korea), with which it was a single country called Korea
until 1945. After its founding in 1948, the country has struggled with the
aftermath of 35 years of Japanese occupation, the Korean War, and decades of
military rule. The South Korean economy has advanced rapidly since the 1950s and
is now the 10th largest economy in the world. South Korea is also one of the
world's most technologically advanced and digitally-connected countries. It is
a global leader in computer games, digital displays, shipbuilding and mobile
phones. South Korea's entertainment industry has grown explosively since the
1990s, producing Asia-wide successes in music, television, and film in a
phenomenon known as "Korean wave." However, the country still retains
centuries-old customs and traditions, such as its unique cuisine and ancestor
worship.
One of the ambitious programs in Soonchunhyang University, the study abroad program is a forward-looking international program that explores individual and cultural differences by providing an opportunity for students to interact both personally and academically in an open and unique environment.
Since 2002, the Soonchunhyang University study abroad program has given the opportunity for over 1,500 students to benefit through cooperative peer learning and formal instruction. This has provided invaluable experiences in personal development and cultural awareness and seeks not only to equip the minds of the future with a clear understanding of the global imperative but also to empower them to develop a truly open-minded attitude towards the ever reaching economic and social future.
Korea is rich in cultural and social traditions. In many ways, western societies can benefit from these traditions that have lived on through many generations. The study abroad program allows western students to be immersed in Korean society through a comfortable and familiar environment.
Through the language exchange program of the English Village, native English speaking students and Korean students can live and work together in an environment that is relaxed and conducive in creating lasting fellowships and productive learning. Throughout the academic calendar students will be required to study in detail academic subjects covering international and Korean studies via Asian studies program and will be encouraged to further their own studies through an internship; an endeavor that provides a bridge between minds and attitudes through group meetings and social events.
CITY OF ASAN
Asan is located in the north western region of Chungnam, less than 60 miles south of Korea’s capital Seoul, a 40 minute ride on Korea’s newest high speed railroad, the KTX. Asan is dynamically expanding with its population being expected to reach over 500, 000 in a few years and is home for world class semi conductor and automobile manufacturers, Samsung and Hyundai. Asan is also famous for its natural hot springs rich in minerals and healing properties. Many visitors from around the world look forward to relaxing in Asan’s hot springs, especially in Asan’s Dogo hot springs complex, where they can not only benefit from one of Asia’s top sulfur hot springs, but also enjoy swimming, horse riding and a round of golf.
For those who enjoy a hardy walk in idyllic woodlands, Mt.Yeongin offers over 130,000 ㎢ of beautiful forest to invigorate both leisurely walkers and serious hikers. Tourists can enjoy the serenity of the natural forests by spending time in one of the 15 lodging facilities or camping grounds and take time to gaze at the immense splendor of the two towers at the top of the mountain, which were erected to commemorate cultural values and reflect on the history of the surrounding areas.
Eating out in Asan is also quite a pleasant experience. One can taste exquisite Korean cuisine in many restaurants in Asan. Even for those who are price-conscious, dining out need not be a pain in the wallet since one can have barbeque style meal for only less than eight dollars in most of these restaurants. For more information about the history, culture and attractions in the city of Asan visit: http://www.asan.go.kr/eng/about/sub_01.asp
SOONCHUNHYANG UNIVERSITY
Originally founded as a medical college in 1978, Soonchunhyang University is
now recognized as an excellent educational renovation institution of higher
education. Undergraduate programs are offered through five colleges: Humanities,
social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering and medicine. Graduate programs
are offered through three graduate schools: The Graduate School, The Graduate
School of Education, and the Graduate School of Industrial Infromation.
Located in a rural town on the central West coast of South Korea,
Soonchunhyang University is surrounded by quaint mountains and nearby
historical and cultural attractions. It is an ideal place to study and
experience Korean culture.
INTERNSHIP
In an
effort to create a true globalized university, SCH has been and currently is
participating in programs that allow faculty and students to study abroad within
exchange programs with related institutions. We have created what is called the
"English Village" within the Soonchunhyang University campus. This village is
housed on our campus. The citizens are students who are chosen as students who a
particularly interested in English as a foreign language along with students
from abroad who are native English speakers. Intern for 15 hours a week
as a "Cultural and Language Ambassador" through group meetings, a language &
cultural exchange program, and by living side by side with Korean students in
specially designated dorms.
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
There are classes offered in Korean studies, International studies, and Korean language. You can find descriptions of all classes: Soonchunhyang University website
CREDITS
Academic credits offered by Soonchunhyang University in academic courses and
internship. All credits will be transferred to UNI.
ACADEMIC CALENDAR:
Spring Semester: Early March – end of June
Fall Semester: mid August – mid December
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS:
Housing is on campus and is provided FREE OF CHARGE. One of Soonchunhyang University’s newest buildings, finished in 2005, the Global Village houses around 500 students with over 45 separate sections with each capable of providing accommodation for up to ten students.
The Global Village is a spacious area, consisting of 4 buildings designed with students’ needs in mind. With free internet access, public telephones, study rooms, and a fully equipped media room, students need not be concerned with staying in touch with family and loved ones.
Each section has a comfortable communal area fitted with a sofa suite, TV and is fully air-conditioned. It is surrounded by five rooms and two large bathrooms. Also, students can feel confident that their belongings are safe and secure as all rooms are fitted with sturdy locks, as well as security lock on each dormitory.
The Global Village has 24 hour in-house security, employed by Soonchunhyang University to ensure students peace of mind and well being. It also offers in-house laundry and an employed seamstress to adjust and mend students garments where needed. The Global Village serves as a home away from home for many students and SCH hopes that the memories gained here will have a lasting impression on its occupants for years to come.
PROGRAM COST
UNI students pay UNI tuition and fees (in-state or out-of-state) plus the study abroad fee to participate.
The program cost does NOT include food, books and supplies, international health insurance, and personal expenses.
Meals range from $1.00-$10.00 around the city of Asan. Benefits of this program: The program DOES include housing, $800 stipend for airfare, and approximately $150.000 spending money per week.
FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS
Participants in this program may use their UNI financial aid to help pay for the program. Study Abroad Scholarships and a variety of external funding options are available to those who qualify. Check the Scholarship information on the Study Abroad website: http://fp.uni.edu/studyabroad/funding/scholarships.htm. Scholarships are available through SNU as well. Do not hesitate to contact the Office of International Affairs to get more detailed information (y10103a@snu.ac.uk, Soo Jin Kang) or the UNI Study Abroad Office: yana.cornish@uni.edu
ELIGIBILITY
UNI students only. Applicants must be full-time students at the time of application, at least sophomore status during the session abroad, have departmental approval for participation, and possess an overall G.P.A. of 2.5 or higher.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
A complete set of application materials will include one original and one copy of the following:
D) Fee: $45 for American Citizens, $30 for other nationals(cash or money order only). (By mail: money order only, payable to the Korean Consulate General.)
E) Required Documents
Admissions letter or certificate of registration issued by the president of the college or university. (this will be sent to you from Soonchunhyang Unversitiy)
Seoul Public Service Website for Foreigners http://global.seoul.go.kr/
It provides services including various certificates, counseling over the phone, and information about living in Seoul.
Inquires regarding this program should be directed to:
Yana Cornish, Study Abroad Coordinator
Office of International Programs
028 Gilchrist Hall, UNI
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0520
Tel: 319/ 273-7078
Fax: 319/ 273-2921
TALES FROM ABROAD
Be the first UNI student to submit a brief account of your adventures abroad at Soonchunhyang University!
Study Abroad Center |
Office of International Programs |
28 Gilchrist Hall |
University of Northern Iowa |
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0520
Phone: (319) 273-7078 |
Fax: (319) 273-2921 |
study-abroad@uni.edu |
Employment
