As the end of 2014 winds down and the NSLI-Y Korea students wrap up their first semester abroad, the students realize they have become quite familiar and comfortable with the surroundings and language of the new country they now call home. They have adjusted to daily life as high school students in Korea and built bonds with their host families, while also enjoying opportunities to further their language skills and delve deeper into the local culture through activities such as:
Coming of Age Ceremony
Several NSLI-Y students stepped back in time to celebrate their coming of age at a traditional Korean ceremony. The students wore ceremonial hanboks and put their hair up as a symbol of their new adulthood. The ceremony performed traditional rituals and provided other cultural activities.
"At the end of the ceremony, all of the students bowed to the elders and parents. I felt honored to do so and it gave me a surreal feeling to see parents tearing up at the sight of their sons and daughters entering a new phase of their lives."
- Amanda, NSLI-Y Korea, Academic Year 2014-2015
Thanksgiving
Although the NSLI-Y Korea students were far from home this Thanksgiving season, they did not miss the chance to gather and give thanks together. The Minister Counseler invited the students, host families, and locals friends to a classic Thanksgiving dinner. After the dinner, the students presented in Korean about the history, modern tradition, and food of Thanksgiving. The holiday was particularly more meaningful spent with new friends and family in a new place the students were grateful to call home.
Nami Island
In November, students took a temporary escape from the busy city life with a trip to Nami Island in Chuncheon, South Korea. Nami Island, or Namiseom, is a half moon shaped island formed by the rising of the North Han River as a result of the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam. On the beautiful crescent island, students discussed and gave brief presentations regarding various issues involving the U.S., South Korea, and North Korea. Afterwards, students explored the beautiful island and took in the fresh air of the mountains and trees.