Andrea Rosas, South Korea, Summer 2024
Name: Andrea Rosas
Race/Ethnicity: Mexican American
Hometown: Denver, Colorado.
Year/Location of Study Abroad: South Korea (2024)
Age at the time: 22
Growing up in Athmar Park, a community in Denver, Colorado, within a Hispanic household, traveling abroad seemed like an impossible dream due to the high costs of the programs. I shied away from pursuing my dream of studying abroad for a long time. However, during my junior year of college, my father's passing made me realize how limited our time in life truly is. My dad’s passing inspired me to pursue even the smallest dreams and push myself beyond my comfort zone.
With this new perspective, I began searching for a study abroad program that intrigued and suited me. Many programs caught my eye, but the one that truly resonated with me was Korea Goes Global at the University of Colorado. This program provided me with the incredible opportunity to visit numerous places in South Korea, including Seoul, Hongdae, Myeongdong, Gyeongju, Daegu, Busan, and Jeonju.
One of the highlights of my journey was visiting Bonggil-ri, where I had the chance to relax by a beach. I cherished the peaceful experience of sitting by the ocean, listening to the waves, with a monk playing an instrument nearby. The sound of the waves and the gentle breeze made it a truly memorable moment that I thoroughly enjoyed. Even though it was just a small moment, sitting by the beach at Bonggil-ri is one I will cherish for a long time.
Another unforgettable experience was my visit to the Haeinsa Temple, where I stayed overnight to immerse myself in the life of a monk—something I had long dreamed of doing. This aspiration was deeply rooted in my upbringing, as my father had a great appreciation for Buddhism. Growing up, I often witnessed his love for Buddhism, and spending time in a place that connected me to him, even for just a moment, felt profoundly meaningful.
During my stay at the temple, I embraced the monk's lifestyle, waking up at 4 a.m. to join the Balwoogongyang ceremony and witness Buddhist drumming. I participated in the Dharma Hall ceremony, engaged in 108 prostrations, enjoyed a traditional Buddhist breakfast, meditated, and had a tea discussion with a monk. This experience was undoubtedly the highlight of my entire program, as it allowed me to connect with a part of my childhood and my father in a way I had never imagined.
In sharing my story, I hope to leave you with a simple message: cherish the one life you have. Pursue the dreams that seem impossible. I once thought studying abroad was beyond my reach, but with the support of my professors, community members, and mentors, I made it a reality. Embracing new experiences can open doors to countless connections and opportunities, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for life.
Travel Tips:
Embrace New Experiences: Be open to trying new foods, making new friends, and exploring unfamiliar aspects of the country you're visiting. You can do this by walking around, visiting popular public places, and engaging with the locals. These are great opportunities to meet people and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Engage with Locals: Make an effort to communicate with the native people of the country, even if it means learning some basic introductory phrases or using a translation app. Being friendly and approachable can help you start conversations and build connections as you explore new places.
Explore Your Surroundings: Set aside some days to wander around the area where you are staying. Discover nearby attractions, hidden gems, and get a feel for the local environment. This can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the culture.
Build Relationships: If you are traveling in a group, work on building strong relationships with those around you, whether they are professors, fellow students, or other travelers. These connections can enrich your experience and create lasting memories.
