Hi! My name is Irene and I’m a rising junior studying Visual Communication Design at the University of Washington. This past summer, I had the opportunity to study abroad at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, as part of the six-week Yonsei International Summer School program. As a Korean American and an aspiring graphic designer, it truly allowed me to immerse myself in my family’s heritage while experiencing design in a different culture.
Academically, this program gave me the opportunity of exploring design with a more tech-forward perspective. I enrolled in three courses including Computer Graphics, CG & AI Design, and Generative AI Design, all which challenged me to think more critically about how I can use different AI software features to support my work as a design student. Furthermore, it was exciting to learn alongside students from around the world which exposed me to diverse ways of thinking and collaboration.
I gained a new level of confidence and independence from studying abroad as I learned how to adjust to new challenges, explore unfamiliar spaces, and step out of my comfort zone. I loved living in Seoul because every day brought something new to see or learn. I was able to practice my Korean with my local friends and converse with my grandparents which was one of my goals coming to Korea so I felt deeply gratified. Additionally, one of my highlights was to experience Korea like a local! I got to enjoy grilled mackerel by the river in the countryside and became a regular at the neighborhood bakery near my house. Navigating daily life in a new city by exploring neighborhoods filled with history and art that is different from Seattle made me feel inspired every day. The most memorable moments I recall were the simple ones like taking in the sunset while journaling on
my rooftop or listening to vinyls with my friend at the vinyl cafe while watching the trains pass by at Hangang Park.
Overall, my time at Yonsei University was an unforgettable era of my college journey and could not have been possible without the support of the Gilman Scholarship. Through the invaluable support from this scholarship, I was able to fund a large portion of my study abroad. I received immense support along the way from both Gilman and UW Study Abroad advisers as well, so I recommend looking into the scholarship before starting your study abroad application. As I return to the University of Washington with a stronger cultural identity and sense of design purpose, I found a deeper appreciation for all of the connections I’ve built abroad. I am undeniably grateful for how Yonsei has helped me grow in ways that will last beyond the summer, and I hope you will get to experience something similar during your time at UW!
