Academic and Cultural Enrichment: My Exchange Experience at Seoul National University, South Korea
My name is Narumol Rodruksa, and I am a master’s degree student in the Development and Sustainability Program at the School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD), Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand. During my studies, I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in an exchange program at Seoul National University (SNU), South Korea. My focus during the exchange was on Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, a field closely related to my academic interests and career aspirations.
The decision to join this exchange program was driven by my desire to expand my academic knowledge, gain international experience, and immerse myself in a new cultural and educational environment. Looking back, I can confidently say that this was one of the most enriching and memorable experiences of my academic journey.
The classes I attended at SNU were highly engaging and offered a wealth of knowledge in my interest fileds. The professors were not only experts in their fields but also approachable and willing to engage in meaningful discussions. Their teaching methods encouraged critical thinking and active participation, which helped me gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The class help me a lot in understand theorotical through case studies and group discussions, I was able to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. This experience has been instrumental in broadening my perspective and equipping me with tools to address complex development issues.
Additionally, I participated in seminars where experts from academia, government, and international organizations shared their experiences and research findings. These seminars were invaluable in helping me stay updated on the latest trends and challenges in agricultural economics and rural development.
This exchange program was not just an academic journey but also a significant period of personal growth. Living in a foreign country challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, adapt to a new environment, and develop resilience. I learned to navigate language barriers, manage my time effectively, and balance academic responsibilities with exploring a new culture. These experiences have made me more confident, independent, and open-minded.
Furthermore, the program strengthened my ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural setting. Group projects and discussions with students from different countries helped me understand diverse perspectives and improved my communication and teamwork skills.
Participating in the exchange program at Seoul National University was an unforgettable experience that has greatly enriched my academic and personal life. The knowledge and skills I gained, along with the friendships and memories I made, will continue to shape my future endeavors.
This experience has not only strengthened my passion for development and sustainability but also reaffirmed my commitment to contributing to rural development and improving livelihoods through innovative and inclusive approaches. I look forward to applying what I have learned during this exchange program to my studies and future career.