Challenges in a new environment often become turning points in life. CWNU’s exchange student program offers students more than just academic learning— it provides opportunities for personal growth and a global perspective. Immersed in unfamiliar cultures and languages, students broaden their worldview, enhance their global awareness, and lay the foundation for becoming future global leaders.

In this article, we delve into the transformative journeys of two students who participated in the exchange program, exploring their firsthand experiences. Additionally, we aim to highlight the strengths and potential of CWNU’s exchange student program.

A Russian Exchange Student Immersed in K- culture: Nabiullina Diana

“Korea feels like my second home now.” Nabiullina Diana (21) from Russia decided to come to Korea, captivated by the allure of K- culture. “Learning Korean wasn’t easy at first, but I gradually found it fascinating. I’m majoring in Korean and English translation studies, and I joined the exchange student program to further enhance my speaking and listening skills,” Diana shared.

Her academic and campus life at CWNU exceeded her expectations. “Compared to my home university, CWNU offers a much more comfortable and positive learning environment. The kindness of the people here and the passion of the professors keep me motivated every day,” she remarked.

The most memorable aspect of her exchange experience was meeting friends from diverse backgrounds. “My friends made my time as an exchange student even more meaningful by helping me adjust to Korean culture and daily life,” Diana shared. For her, the language barrier was both the greatest challenge and assignment. However, she gradually overcame it through consistent efforts to communicate and a fearless attitude toward making mistakes.

Through this experience, Diana gained a deeper understanding of Korean culture and underwent significant changes in her perspective. “Experiencing a tangerine farm and haenyeo culture in Jeju allowed me to feel the diversity of Korea, which greatly influenced my values.” She said that her exchange experience confirmed her desire to further study the Korean language and culture.

▲ Diana enjoying a walk near the Jeju Haenyeo Museum

▲ Diana posing in a hanbok at Gyeongbokgung

Diana also thought about how she would share her exchange student experience with those back home. “When I return, I want to share my diverse experiences in Korea with many people. I’d like to talk about the challenges faced during exchange student life, how I overcame them, and share tips to make life abroad more enjoyable. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the beautiful campus of CWNU and the kind professors,” she said, proudly expressing her desire to share these precious memories.

Broadening Global Perspectives: Seong Ju-won, Dept. of Robot, Control & Instrumentation Engineering, on Exchange Experience in Germany

“Even if new challenges seem daunting, they become valuable experiences.” This time, we explore the story of a CWNU students’ exchange journey abroad. Seong Ju- won, majoring in Robot, Control & Instrumentation, experienced significant academic and personal growth during his exchange program in Germany. He shared his motivation for joining the exchange program: “As graduation approached, I wanted to reflect deeply on my life.” Having set participating in an exchange program as a bucket list goal since high school, he seized this final opportunity before graduation to head to Germany. “I wanted to share life stories with people from different countries and redefine my own. I believed this experience would have a profound impact on my future,” he explained.

However, preparing for the exchange student process wasn’t easy. He struggled with complex visa procedures and paperwork, especially when his German university was closed for Christmas. “I called a professor and managed to get the required document three days before the deadline,” he said, recalling the challenging process.

The learning environment in Germany was quite different from Korea. It emphasized students’ autonomy and responsibility, requiring self- motivation and active participation. “In Korea, attending university and classes often feels mandatory, but in Germany, the attitude was more like, ‘Only those who want to study should do so,’” he shared.

Most of all, the toughest challenge was the language barrier. In a master’s- level, engineering project, he struggled to keep up. “I realized it wasn’t their accents but my listening skills, so I studied English for over five hours daily.” By the second semester, he completed presentations and exams successfully, feeling proud of his progress.

▲ Seong is presenting on AI and Postmodernism in an International Management class

▲ Seong poses in front of a portrait of Napoleon with a close friend who is studying in the UK

Seong shared that his exchange experience had a significant impact on his future and major. “It broadened my interests beyond my field of study and taught me the importance of doing my best wherever I am. With the experiences I gained abroad, I feel ready to face any challenge with a positive attitude.”

He advised students considering an exchange program: “Don’t be afraid of new challenges. Take initiative and be proud of your choices.” He emphasized that the exchange experience is not just about going abroad but a valuable opportunity for self- reflection and growth.

Exchange programs offer students more than academic achievements— they provide opportunities to understand diverse cultures, connect with people, and reflect on themselves. Both Diana and Seong overcame challenges in unfamiliar environments and grew personally through their unique experiences abroad. The sense of accomplishment they gained will empower them to face future challenges with confidence and resilience.

Everything You Need to Know Before Going on Exchange: Q&A with Park Ha-eun from the Office of International Affairs

Q. What are the key factors evaluated during the exchange student selection process?

Park: There are three main criteria. First, language proficiency for the host country is crucial. Students should prepare the required language scores to keep up with courses at the host university. Second, academic performance matters. A strong GPA reflects dedication and reassures us that the student will maintain their studies abroad. Third, enthusiasm is essential. We assess how well the student has researched the host country and university, as well as their motivation for the exchange experience, through interviews and application materials.

Q. What are the goals the university aims to achieve through the exchange student program?

Park: The main goals are to help students develop a global perspective through their study abroad experience and to strengthen relationships with our partner universities. The program not only supports individual growth but also enhances cooperation between institutions.

Q. What skills or experiences do you expect students to gain through the exchange student program?

Park: First and foremost, I hope students will acquire proficiency in the language of the host country. Additionally, as the program involves students from various nationalities, I believe it’s crucial for students to develop a multicultural perspective through interaction. Ultimately, I hope the program helps students grow into global talents with a broader worldview.

Q. Can you share any achievements of students who participated in the exchange program at CWNU?

Park: One student presented research in Japan with great success, while another continued their studies there for a master's degree. Some international exchange students also returned to enroll in our Korean Language Institute or academic programs after their exchange.

Q. What efforts are being made to improve student satisfaction with the exchange program?

Park: We offer regular counseling for students interested in the program and run various activities like the buddy program and cultural experiences to encourage student interaction and engagement.

Q. Any advice for students at CWNU dreaming of an exchange program?

Park: I recommend investing time in language studies, as language proficiency plays a key role in the selection process. Also, take the opportunity to grow by experiencing diverse cultures abroad.

By Yoon Hye-won, cub-reporter  flipp1005@naver.com

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