Studying abroad at Korea University Business School is arguably the best decision I’ve made while completing my degree. KUBS has created a first-class academic program that is built upon the school’s engaging faculty, accommodating facilities, and extensive print and electronic resources. Outside of classes, exchange and international students can join a variety of clubs and organizations. KUBS Buddy is a social club specifically designed to connect foreign business students with their Korean counterparts. They host official events each month, but there are also plenty of opportunities for unofficial get-togethers. KUBS embraces the global mindset that Korea University as a whole advocates. All study abroad programs give you a chance to experience life in another country, but KUBS stands above the rest by making foreign students feel that they are truly an important part of the university community.

Coming from a top American business school, I can say with confidence that the professors at Korea University are some of the best around. During my semester at KUBS, I had the privilege of taking an International Business course taught by Professor Jungbien Moon. The class revolved around student presentations, which encouraged interaction and discussion among students, leading to a much more valuable learning experience. Out of the dozens of professors I’ve had at university, Professor Moon ranks among the very best. Along with being incredibly well-versed in his area of expertise, he was an effective and engaging teacher. All of my professors at KUBS placed a heavy emphasis on teamwork and discussion which was a refreshing change of pace from the monotonous lecturing that undermines too many undergraduate programs.

To assist in getting the best possible experience academically, KUBS has recently constructed two additional facilities: LG-POSCO and Hyundai Motor Hall. Together, they house most of the classrooms and study areas available to business school students. Whether you are looking for a quiet nook to read in or a comfortable lounge to talk with classmates, there are plenty of options from which to choose. In particular, Hyundai Motor Hall has dozens of spacious breakout rooms with monitors and white boards for group presentations and collaboration. The business library, located in LG-POSCO, is the quietest place to study, with access to textbooks and business publications, both print and electronic. It was also my number one stop each morning for a free copy of the Wall Street Journal so that I could keep up to date on global events. I shouldn’t forget to mention that both buildings are not only functional, but absolutely beautiful as well. It makes studying for finals a little less stressful when you can sit back and appreciate your surroundings.

While studying is always necessary at university, when you’re abroad cultural exchange is just as important, if not more so. In the end, these programs are designed to foster connections between people from different countries, and it would be a shame to not take advantage of these opportunities. As I mentioned earlier, KUBS Buddy was created to give you chances to build friendships with Korean students, and KU in general has its own buddy program that operates in similar fashion. There are also clubs for activities ranging from dance, to hiking, to a variety of sports. I was part of the archery club during my semester at KU, and it was an awesome way to meet with students who weren’t directly involved in the international program. If I could offer one piece of advice, it’s to do whatever you can to break out of your comfort zone and meet Koreans and people from countries besides your own! Studying abroad is a once in lifetime opportunity, and you would be hard pressed to find a better host university than Korea University. 

Evan Kollath
Tulane University Class of 2015
Exchange Student at KUBS in Spring 2014