Bhavika Choudhary, ’28, is a Computer Science major studying at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) this Fall 2024.
As my semester in Korea approaches its final weeks, I find myself reflecting on this whirlwind of an experience. When I first decided to leave Drexel University and head to KAIST as an exchange student, I imagined a seamless adventure, similar to how I had adjusted to life in Philadelphia after leaving India. But from the moment I arrived in Korea, I knew this would be different. For the first time, I wasn’t just missing one place—I was missing *two*. Balancing homesickness for India and Philadelphia while trying to find my place here has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, experiences of my life.
Arriving late, after orientation week, didn’t help matters. By the time I set foot on campus, social circles were already well-formed. Watching groups of students laughing and chatting in tight-knit cliques made me feel like I was playing a never-ending game of catch-up—both socially and academically. It’s hard not to wonder what it would have been like to be part of those early bonding moments. The language barrier only amplified this feeling. While I’m used to navigating life in English, living in a predominantly Korean-speaking environment brought its own set of struggles. Simple tasks like ordering food or asking for directions often felt like monumental challenges. Even when people were kind and patient, the constant need to translate and navigate misunderstandings was mentally exhausting, leaving me feeling isolated in the middle of bustling crowds.
Korean university life has been an entirely new world compared to what I know in the U.S. Unlike the fluid, open social dynamics I’m accustomed to, here, most friend groups feel firmly established. As an exchange student, I’ve been navigating multiple identities—being Indian, yet perceived as “American” because of my U.S. university. It’s an odd space to occupy, one where I often feel I don’t fully belong to any group. While connecting with other international students has been comforting, bridging the cultural and language gaps with Korean students has been a slower, more deliberate process.
Despite the initial hurdles, I’ve been finding my footing in unexpected ways. Joining campus activities has been a game-changer. The KAIST Ascend Club, which focuses on hiking and sports, has given me opportunities to bond with people through shared physical challenges. There’s something universal about reaching the top of a mountain together—it transcends language. Similarly, volunteering with community service groups has helped me meet like-minded students who share my values. Collaborating on projects that serve a purpose has built genuine connections and a sense of fulfillment that makes my time here feel meaningful.
Language exchange programs have also been surprisingly transformative. What started as structured partnerships for learning Korean and teaching English has grown into deeper friendships rooted in cultural exchange. These programs have helped me not only improve my Korean but also form connections with people who are as curious about my culture as I am about theirs. The KAIST Buddy Program has been another source of support, giving me structured opportunities to connect with both Korean and international students. Regular group activities and casual hangouts have slowly replaced the initial awkwardness with a sense of belonging.
Even now, homesickness lingers in the background. Balancing the emotional pull of India and Philadelphia while trying to immerse myself in Korea has been complex. Late-night video calls to my friends in Philadelphia keep me connected to my second home, while conversations with my family in India remind me of my roots. I’ve even found small comforts that remind me of both places—whether it’s finding Indian spices at a specialty store or chatting about U.S. campus life with fellow exchange students. Creating routines, like frequenting a favorite café or taking walks in nearby parks, has helped me carve out a sense of stability amidst the unfamiliar.
This experience has been a constant lesson in growth. The challenges I’ve faced—from language barriers to navigating unfamiliar social dynamics—have pushed me to adapt in ways I never imagined. I’ve learned to embrace discomfort, finding strength in moments of uncertainty and resilience in navigating them alone. For future exchange students considering Korea, my advice is this: lean into the unfamiliar, seek out community, and remember to be kind to yourself as you adjust. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones, and each challenge you face will shape you in ways you’ll carry forward.
As my time here winds down, I’m trying to savor the moments—the connections I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and even the struggles I’ve overcome. This chapter of my life has taught me to see “foreign” not just as a place but as a mindset, a willingness to step outside the familiar and embrace the unknown. And while I’m eager to return to the places I call home, I know that a part of me will always carry Korea with me, too.
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