Tracy Dumakor and Jonathan Everett Study Abroad at Konkuk University in South Korea
Young Harris, GA (07/26/2023) — Young Harris College's rising seniors Tracy Dumakor and Jonathan Everett recently returned to the Enchanted Valley after a semester abroad at Konkuk University in South Korea.
The study abroad program at Young Harris College gives students the opportunity to engage in international experiences that deepen their understanding of other cultures, languages, and people. That is exactly what Dumakor and Everett were looking for and found on during their trip to South Korea.
Dumakor is pursuing a bachelor's in Chemistry, with minors in both Mathematics and Physics. She is an Admissions Representative, Alumni Ambassador, peer tutor, and member of Young Harris College's Fly-Fishing Club. She is also a member of the Sigma Beta Sigma Sorority and the Alumni Chair of the Sigma Delta Chi Honors Society. Everett is a math major and a peer tutor as well.
Both students were interested in branching out and learning more about Korean culture. "I always found Korean culture interesting," explains Dumakor. When she saw the study abroad opportunity at Konkuk University, she knew this was something she wanted to pursue.
"I've lived in Blairsville my whole life," said Everett. "I wanted to branch out and engage with people of diverse backgrounds."
He has a second-degree black belt in taekwondo, so he was curious about visiting the birthplace of this martial art. Once they arrived, Dumakor studied biochemistry, math, Korean elementary and culture, and the History of Seoul. Everett studied the Korean language, history, culture, and Organizational Behavior. While they were learning inside the classroom, they also participated in various after class activities.
"I joined the ping pong club, rock climbing club, international friendship club, and even the rock-climbing club," Everett said.
"I went out of my comfort zone and joined a hip hop dance team!" Dumakor added.
Even though they had classes, that did not stop either one from exploring. From Seoul, to Busan, to Jeju Island, and even Thailand, they were able to visit palaces, temples, museums, and more with their new friends. Visiting these places with their new friends was an experience they both will never forget.
"This has been a life altering experience," Everett said. "I am immensely grateful for the opportunities I seized, the friendships I formed, and the lessons I learned."
The power of community both encountered was what really stuck with them.
"They navigate life together," concludes Everett. "I carry with me the invaluable lesson of the power of a supportive community."
The study abroad program at Konkuk University gave both students opportunities in and outside of the classroom and prepared them for their last year at Young Harris College.
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Jenna Thomas, jthomas1@yhc.edu, (706) 379-5163Share this Story
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