Staying within Philippine borders for the past 18 years, I never really appreciated things like world peace, cross-cultures and language barriers. I used to live in my home country, unconsciously limiting myself to opportunities other countries have to offer. I lived a very simple life, until I was given an opportunity to study abroad.

With Kpop songs and Korean dramas being played in every Filipino's radio and television set, Korea undeniably influences much of my country's culture. I am no stranger to some of Korea's practices and traditions. That is one of the many reasons why I did not hesitate to apply when I heard that Korean universities offer exchange student opportunities for students like me. I thought it would be interesting to experience Korean culture firsthand.

I was very happy when I found out that I was accepted as a business administration student in Chonnam National University in Gwangju. I have always dreamt of visitng Korea and it is so amazing that I even got this chance to study here for a semester. I look up to them when it comes to their technology and their economy. And they did not fail to impress me with all the skyscrapers and dangling lights surrounding the place. It certainly lived up to my expectations. Even beyond my expectations.

At the first day I arrived in Incheon International Airport, I was greeted by students from CNU. I was really surprised because our plane landed at around 10:00 pm so I thought no one would be waiting for me. I cannot believe how supportive they were to us, foreign students. I was shocked that they would stay awake at night just to assist me. The people are so friendly that I don't feel lonely at all. Everyday, I get a chance to meet new faces coming from different parts of the world, exchanging cultures and discussing global issues. All of us formed strong bonds in just a short period of time. Yes, the weather might be cold, but all of them welcomed me with warm hugs.

I am now staying in Bukgu district in Gwangju and I should say, I easily fell in love with the place. It seems like it was not that hard to adapt to this new culture after all. In fact, I enjoy several Korean practices. I have been to different places in Gwangju like the downtown, the museum and international centers. But I would also love to visit other cities like Busan, Seoul and Jeju island. I always make sure I maximize my stay by eating a new Korean dish everyday. 김밥(gimbap), 삼겹살(samgyeopsal), and of course, 김치(kimchi) are among my favorites. It's crazy because I get this face-to-face encounter with the culture of South Korea that I only used to see in my television screen back in the Philippines. Studying here is so priceless. Each passing day, I just love Korea more and more.

It is with great honor and gratitude to be part of this exchange student program in Korea. This experience has opened my eyes to the beauty of other cultures. This made me even more sensitive to global issues and world views. I just can't help but get excited to see what other things I can do here in Korea.

By Mendoza Junn Berli, Exchange Student from the Philippines