INRTU Student Elizaveta Nebrenchina Completed Semester Abroad at South Korea’s Chung-Ang University
Elizaveta Nebrenchina, a fourth-year student from the School of High Technologies at Irkutsk National Research Technical University (INRTU), spent a semester on an exchange program at Chung-Ang University in Seoul, South Korea.
For the fourth-year “Quality Management” major, this was a significant experience. Elizaveta's interest in foreign languages began back in school. She learned about the opportunity to study abroad from information boards posted by International Office at INRTU.
She notes that fellow students helped her adapt. Engaging with people from diverse cultural backgrounds became one of the most valuable aspects of her exchange:
“When you interact with people from different countries, listen to their views and perceptions of things, study their language and traditions, it not only broadens your horizons but also increases your interest in new experiences. Despite all the challenges, I believe stepping out of your comfort zone is worth it. I began to think differently and became more responsible and independent”.
She identified the freedom to choose her own courses as the main difference in the academic system and also highlighted the use of digital textbooks.
Communication with professors and local residents was conducted in English:
“Everyone was very understanding and tried to avoid complex language. Locals are incredibly welcoming and friendly, almost always open to conversation. If their English was limited, they would use a translation app,” the student shared.According to Elizaveta, studying in another country is an excellent opportunity that opens doors to new acquaintances and fills you with positive emotions. While studying at Chung-Ang University, she actively explored the city:
“I had a feeling that Seoul is all of Korea, because the boundaries between the capital and neighboring cities blur due to similar infrastructure and the locals' drive to realize their potential in the heart of the country. Seoul introduced me to welcoming people, revealed its beauty, and showed that land is a highly valuable resource. I would like to do an internship again. It's a unique experience that influences your entire worldview and makes you see the familiar in a new light”.Details regarding the financial aspects of the trip and the cultural nuances Elizaveta encountered are available in her full review, published in a dedicated section of the INRTU website for participants of academic mobility programs.
