ALEXANDER DIAL
Major: Mathematics
Host: Dankook University
Location: South Korea
Program Type: Summer Term
How do you think you have benefited from your study abroad program?
Study Abroad helped me grow confidence in the person I am. I got to meet people of such diverse backgrounds and lifestyles who all accepted me for who I was with such genuine kindness. We all grew together and became such a tight knit group that I now know I do not have to fear being myself because I know I will always be able to find more people who support me for being who I am.
Why did you choose to study abroad in South Korea?
I was not set on any specific location before studying abroad and as I was looking through the options, Dankook really stood out to me. Especially their teaching program was a huge factor for me and since this was my first time abroad, I wanted to go somewhere very different from the United States. The proximity to Seoul, which is such a major city with amazing food and events, was the final deciding factor.
Do you think study abroad has positively impacted your academics and/or future career?
My time at Dankook University was one of my most important moments in college so far. I have had trouble deciding exactly what to do with my degree and had considered the idea of becoming a teacher, but I was unsure if I would enjoy it. Teaching all of my wonderful students at Dankook made me fall in love with teaching and has solidified that is what I want to do. Without study abroad I would still be confused on what I wanted to do after graduating, so I am really thankful for the opportunity.