Language Journal # 7 Study Abroad and Visa Process
The study abroad process has picked up dramatically since I had received approval from the University. I then had to meet every strict deadline for the Yonsei University application process, to say it was stressful would be an understatement. I could never get concrete information from either side, while the Office of International Study was very helpful with COVID 19 it is a tricky situation. Currently, I am still confused and have yet to call my local embassy since I don't know if I should mail my visa application or have to take the seven-hour drive to Atlanta. I talked with my language partner, Janette, and she helped give me confidence for my upcoming call or visit to the embassy.
Did I learn the phrase: 메일로 보내요 아니면 직접 가서 제출하나요?
Which means "Do I send it through the mail or do I have to go in-person?" Before my phone call, I would find myself rehearsing on my phone and trying to figure out what words or phrases I would use when I would call the embassy. I wanted to mentally be prepared and to be a confident speaker however, I was scared that whoever would answer would think I was a much better speaker and use vocabulary I would not know. From my nervousness, I accidentally clicked the "Korean" button and was trying to understand the directory in only Korean. While some of the words felt very familiar I couldn't pin-point or connect the word with its meaning. I guess this just means I have to continue to study vocabulary.
I think personally for me the hardest thing about learning a language is getting over that initial nervousness and fear of failure. I often think to myself "hey your Korean could be better if only you had started practicing speaking earlier", but honestly the learning process is not in any way linear. And even though my listening and overall understanding of vocabulary and cultural nuances are very high there are still areas that need to be worked on. Although as language learners we hope to be a circle of comprehension and have similar levels in various areas in reality we often have peaks or areas with very high or very low understanding. I am really hoping and will make sure that before I leave to study abroad I get over my initial fear and continue to maintain a growth mindset. Although the college has been completely taking up my time and it has been an extremely hard semester if not the hardest of life, I need to continue to put in the time and practice. Originally one of my goals was to take the TOPIK before I left however with everything going on in my life I am starting to doubt if I feel prepared enough. After this finals craziness is over I just want to sit down on my desk at home and open my Hangul practice book and just write simple sentences.
As I look back to where I started I am very proud of my decision to study abroad and to continue to grow as a language learner.
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