Student Spotlight

UOG Students “Feeling Korea” During Summer Exchange Program

University of Guam students Geena Nuque (center) and Geoffrey Ashford (right) dressed in traditional Korean clothing while attending a Korean wedding ceremony during their summer stay in Jeonju, South Korea. The Tritons participated in the “Feeling Korea” exchange program hosted by Chonbok National University of South Korea and coordinated by the UOG’s Professional and International Programs.

Cultural exchanges help students broaden their world perspectives.

Through the University of Guam’s Professional and International Programs (PIP), three Tritons were able to do just that while participating in the “Feeling Korea” program hosted by Chonbuk National University.

Seniors Geena Nuque from Guam, Justine Conrad Mallari from Saipan, and Geoffrey S. Ashford from Alaska this passed summer traveled to Jeonju, South Korea to immerse themselves in a foreign culture.

PIP covered airfare, lodging, meals, and program fees. The students only paid for personal expenses. UOG students cook "Bibimbap" with friends made while on the Feeling Korea exchange program.

Once there, the Tritons attended Korean classes in the morning, visited a “Jjimjilbang” or Korean spa, and experienced a traditional Korean wedding ceremony—dressing in traditional clothing as well. They also had the chance to visit the Nambu Night Market, Namsam Seoul Tower, the National Museum of Korea, and Jongmyo Shrine.

“Going to another country to participate in a short term program and having to learn about the language and culture was a really great experience,” Nuque said. “Having to experience different cultures than mine is always refreshing. I enjoyed learning and experiencing the rich Korean culture.”

Nuque not only interacted with Korean students but also met peers from China and Mongolia who participated in the “Feeling Korea” program.

See more photos from the Feeling Korea Exchange Program.

For more information on the “Feeling Korea” program or PIP, contact PIP Director Carlos Taitano at ctaitano@triton.uog.edu.