SNU is surrounded by Gwanak Mountain and you can find many forests around the school, which is not so common in Seoul. The view from the campus and the scenery around it during springtime and autumn are so beautiful that many people visit our school during the weekends just for a leisurely picnic.

However, the environmental factor was not what attracted me. SNU¡¯s high academic level, which was one of the reasons I applied to this school, was one of the main factors that kept me in this school. During my freshman and sophomore years, I was given the opportunity to take different classes besides my major. During these two years, I tried to take classes related to Korean culture and history, many of which were in English. We watched modern day Korean movies, read about the past and present-day Korea, and we also researched contemporary Korean culture by ourselves and in groups. We also had a class for foreign students to learn Korean. We studied Korean grammar, different expressions commonly used by Koreans and eventually we were all able to write full-length essays in Korean. I was genuinely intrigued to watch my Korean so steadily improve.

SNU is also known for the lively spirit of not only the students but also of the professors. Most of the professors are always there when we are in need of their help and some of them even offer us their cell phone numbers so that we can call them directly. My colleagues were generally enthusiastic about learning new languages and about different cultures. I recall them all being surprised when I told them that I had come from Paraguay and they started asking questions about Paraguay and the language I spoke, Spanish. They always tried to help me whenever I was struggling with my Korean and when I felt difficulty joining in their conversations due to my shy character, they were quick to approach me and talk to me first. I soon started to enjoy my university years and continue to do so until this day. I can definitely say that my life at SNU was, and is, a good experience and I hope that I can truly appreciate and make the most out of this great opportunity that not many Koreans are able to cherish before my university days come to an end.