A lot of students don’t know the programs for students like the Study Abroad Program or the Buddy Program in KMU. There are many short language training courses for students. I interviewed Ock Hui-soo, who joined an intensive English language course in the Philippines when she was a sophomore in 2014.


1. Why did you want to join this course?

I had an obsession with speaking complete sentences when speaking in English, so I was reluctant to speak in English. Seniors who had attended the course and whose grades went up a lot recommended the course. It was a great opportunity for me.


2. How can students prepare for this program? Can you introduce this program?

If you want to join, you need a GPA of 3.0 or higher and above 300 and under 700 on TOEIC. The mock exam from KMU is OK. If you are between second semester and sixth semester, you can apply. You can receive a scholarship, but the size of the scholarship varies every year. Students who pass the interview go to the University of St. La Salle. All the students live in a dormitory. Teachers group students into classes after a level test. Students are taught in groups from eight a.m. until four p.m. each day. You can change your timetable if you want, for example, if you want night classes instead of day classes. You can receive fifteen credits upon finishing this program.


3. What did you learn through this course?

First, I felt my fears draining away when I spoke in English. My professor said my speaking ability improved remarkably. I also can make myself understood in English when hanging out with foreign friends. Second, students come from other countries or other schools in Korea. I went to nearby islands every weekend with friends. I loved that time. Foreign students were more relaxed than Korean students and had a lot of travel experience. The stories about other countries were very interesting. We learned about the culture of each country through conversation. I still keep in touch with them.


4. Are there things that students have to be careful about?

The school area is pretty safe, but you must be careful. You never use valuable articles outside the school, especially mobiles. It’s easy to be pick-pocketed.


5. Do you have any advice for students who are preparing go on an intensive language study program?

Going to other countries alone does not improve your language abilities. It is necessary for students to have a plan of action. You should be ready to study hard. Memorize vocabulary lists and practice making sentences before departure. The most important thing is always feel confident.


6. What are your future plans?

I’m planning to go to Mexico as an exchange student. Mexico is the best environment for study because the prices are low and there are few Koreans. I’m going to study English and Spanish studies hard.