While studying abroad, we explore so many new places that sometimes we can mistake as a vacation—but prioritizing school is important, too! There are some differences between schoolwork in America and Korea, so here’s some insight on adjusting and succeeding academically.
ATTENDANCE
This may be a no-brainer, but you should be attending your classes. It depends on the course, but all of my classes this semester counted attendance for a grade. If you’re sick or unable to attend, email your professor beforehand, and they can determine if it’s an excused absence. Korea University’s policy is that you automatically fail if you miss one-third of all your classes.
Where’s the RUBRIC?
One difference between schools in America and in Korea is the lack of rubrics and clear directions. Coming from a college with a list of requirements and guidelines, this stressed me out! Meeting with my professors helped me determine what they were looking for. My advice on written tests is to add as much information as possible. Some test questions are generalized but seek specific answers, so write thorough, detailed answers. For group projects, ask your group members questions! It was very helpful to ask my Korean classmates what the professor expected.
ASK QUESTIONS
Feel free to ask the professors questions about the tests in person or through email. Professors are usually willing to speak after class. Make sure your questions are specific and not “What will be on the test?” Some good questions to ask include:
- What will the format of the test be?
- How many questions are on the test?
- How much time do I have to complete it?
- For the short answer questions, what length of an answer are you expecting?
- For the ____ chapter, how in-depth do I need to know ____?
Another difference between American and Korean colleges is the weight of the midterm and final. There are fewer assignments in Korea, so the midterm and final are a larger percentage of your grade. Stay on top of your coursework, and even when there is no homework, keep studying.
OFFICE HOURS
One of the things that’s made me less anxious about my coursework has been meeting with my professors. Similar to the U.S., each professor has office hours. I went to one of my professor’s office hours to ask some questions about the midterm and left feeling reassured! It was so beneficial that a group of us students met regularly with him and had tea. Koreans are very hospitable people, so this is common. These meetings help build positive relationships with your instructors and get clarity on foreign concepts.
Tea time with my professor during office hours.STAYING HEALTHY
Finally, remember to take care of yourself! If you’re sick or struggling mentally, studying will be more exhausting, and it will be harder to reach out for help. It’s a good habit to take breaks during your school day and fit fun into your schedule. Some of my favorite ways to do this are getting dinner with friends after class and traveling outside Seoul on the weekends!
A fun adventure and a break from studying at Everland, Korea’s largest amusement park.Brittany Pomierski, Grand Valley State University, is studying abroad in South Korea with TEAN.
