SDLC 105 - Learning Journal #5

I definitley experienced culture shock while I was abroad. Similar to the people in the video, it was a draining experience and led to a feeling of discomfort and unease. The biggest issue was that it lowered my self-confidence and made it difficult to do simple tasks because I was so worried about making a mistake rather than the completion of the task. Being unable to do simple tasks, such as use the washing machine, can make you feel dumb and out of place. 

Prior to going to Korea, I prepared a lot by studying Korean and memorizing key travel phrases and vocabulary. Doing tasks like asking for directions or shopping in a store, were easy for me but there was still a lot of local knowledge I lacked. No one tells you to prepare for those sorts of things. Things like finding where to buy bagels because you're craving them or where to buy a pillow because you need a new one are unexpected obstacles.

I was lucky enough to have a close group of Korean friends who made me feel accepted and were always there to answer my questions. Also, I found a "happy place" for myself where I could go and recharge after having a tiring day. It served as a refuge for me when I felt the most homesick. My advice to others is to find local friends and to find either a place or an activity (such as taking a morning walk) that gives them some sense of normalcy or comfort. 

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