Meet Our Students

“Going into University, I was determined to study both Japanese and Korean. However, with some twists in my life, my dedication centered on Korean. After that decision, I immersed myself within the diaspora community of Korean students on the U’s campus. Every aspect of my life was related to Korea; especially when I became board members of two Korea-related student organizations, Liberty in North Korea and Korea’s Island Dokdo. Those two clubs shaped who I am today. All of the trades I learned from those clubs—and even from the Korean department—will aid me on my first ever venture to South Korea for a full year of study abroad. In the future, I plan to utilize my degree in however unique way that I can. My goal is to work with North Korean refugees with resettlement, whether that is through one-on-one work or through legal practices.”

“I was first exposed to Korean in high school, and ever since have been determined to study it officially. Here at the U of M, I am lucky enough to be able to minor in anything, no matter what my major, and it has been the best part of my academic experience. My Korean classes are consistently my favorite class of the semester, as well as the class where I find the most friends. They have been the best place for me to communicate and connect with people with the widest variety of interests. It was also through my Korean classmates that I found my favorite student group, which really helped me feel more connected to campus life. I plan to put my new Korean skills to work during a summer of study abroad in South Korea while fulfilling liberal education and ALL minor requirements."