For one international student from South Korea, studying abroad wasn’t just about academics, it was about stepping into the unknown and discovering a new version of herself. 

For Doyeon Kwon, a 19-year-old sophomore at Buena Vista University, that journey has been filled with both challenges and unexpected moments of growth. Spending just one semester in the United States, Kwon is studying fine art with a focus on Studio Arts. 

Back home, her studies were centered almost entirely on ceramics. Here, however, her education has expanded beyond the studio. 

“In Korea, I study only ceramics,” she said. “But here, I am learning studio art and commercial design too. It’s different.” 

That difference is exactly what drew her in. 

She chose to study abroad not only to improve her English, but also because of the connection between her home university and BVU. The partnership made the transition easier, but that didn’t mean it wasn’t intimidating. 

“It was my first time coming to the U.S.,” she said. “And my first time living alone.” 

Back home, she lived with her parents, surrounded by familiarity. Moving to a new country meant leaving that comfort behind. Though her family was initially surprised by her decision, they ultimately supported and encouraged her. 

Still, the adjustment wasn’t easy. 

“The first time, it was really hard to understand others’ English,” she said. “But now I can understand a little bit more.” 

Language wasn’t the only challenge. Everyday cultural differences quickly became noticeable. Something as simple as shared living spaces stood out immediately. 

“I was surprised that men and women can use one dormitory,” she said. “In my country, it’s separate.” 

Other small habits also caught her attention, like Americans saying “bless you” after someone sneezes or holding the door open for others. These moments, though minor, highlighted how different daily life can feel in a new place. 

Some differences were more unexpected, and even a little ironic. 

In South Korea, Kwon is considered 21 years old due to the country’s age system and is legally allowed to drink. In the United States, however, she is only 19 and under the legal drinking age. 

“It was kind of shocking,” she said with a laugh. 

Despite the challenges, those around her say she has embraced the experience fully. 

A friend, Minji Seo, who has known Kwon since before coming to the U.S. said she seemed excited for the opportunity from the very beginning. 

“She seemed really happy and excited to come to the United States,” Seo said. “It’s a really special opportunity.” 

That excitement has turned into growth over time. While Kwon described herself as more reserved back home, Seo noticed a clear change after arriving at BVU. 

“At first she was kind of shy,” she said, “but now she’s more talkative, and she really likes hanging out with other people.” 

At BVU, Kwon’s days are filled with classes, spending time with friends, and participating in campus activities. She joined the international club and even tried something completely new: cheerleading — something that even surprised her friend. 

“I didn’t expect she would want to join the cheer team,” Seo said. 

Trying new things has become a defining part of her journey. Whether it’s attending sporting events, going to movie nights, or exploring American culture through campus programs, she’s made it a point to step outside her comfort zone. 

One of her favorite memories happened early on, when a friend from the international club took her to a café. Simple moments like sharing conversations and exploring new places have shaped her experience. 

“They are very kind,” she said about her friends. “It’s very good.” 

Her time in the U.S. has also changed her in more personal ways. In Korea, she describes herself as more reserved. But here, something has shifted. 

“In Korea, we don’t talk a lot of smart talk,” she said. “But here, I am really good at smart talk maybe.” 

Through new friendships and experiences, she feels her personality growing, becoming more open, more expressive, and more confident. 

Her friend also noted that adjusting to a new environment is more difficult than many people realize. 

“It’s harder than people think to adjust,” Seo said. “Everything is really different from home.” 

Of course, there are still things Kwon misses. Food, especially, is something she thinks about often. 

“I miss Korean food,” she said with a laugh. “Here, pizza is every day. It’s hard.” 

Still, homesickness hasn’t overshadowed her experience. Instead, she’s focused on what she’s gaining. 

Her favorite class so far has been one centered on experiencing American culture, where she’s had the chance to travel and explore. From visiting parks to seeing wildlife and going on hikes, these moments have helped her better understand her new environment. 

Looking ahead, she plans to return to Korea to finish her degree, though she’s open to the possibility of coming back to BVU in the future. She also hopes to continue traveling and experiencing new places. 

For other students considering studying abroad, her advice is simple: 

“If you have a chance, take it,” she said. “Come here and enjoy it.” 

Her journey is a reminder that growth often comes from discomfort, from stepping into unfamiliar spaces and embracing the unknown. What started as a way to improve her English has become something much bigger: a transformative experience that is shaping not only her education, but who she is becoming.