Ama's Study Abroad in South Korea

Hi! For those of you that don't know, my name is Amanita and I am a student at the University of Oregon. I'm studying in the UO's School of Journalism and Communication and pursuing a degree in Media Studies with a minor in Korean. Headed into my senior year of college (what?!), I will be going to South Korea for study abroad this fall. I was accepted to Yonsei University, a private university in Seoul, and I could not be more excited. I am eager to take journalism and media classes from a different perspective, and to experience a different kind of academic setting. I have been learning Korean language for over a year, and I can't wait to practice and hone my abilities in a native environment. Immersing myself in Korean culture will be transformative for me both academically and personally, and of course, I can't wait to eat. I have never left the US, so it's going to be an amazing and wild experience.

I am reaching out to my wonderful family and whoever else sees this to ask for help with funding my trip. I know this is a big number, but about half of it will be going towards things like tuition and insurance. The other half will cover my day-to-day living expenses, as I will be living in Seoul for a little over four months. I am leaving at the end of August, and will return to the states at the beginning of January to start my senior year at UO. My family will already know this, but I will be turning 22 in January, and if I could get to my goal with this fundraiser, that would be the best birthday present I could ever ask for.

In high school, I couldn't have ever imagined that I would be embarking on a journey like this, let alone be attending college. As you know, the pandemic took my high school graduation and I was feeling so lost at the end of my senior year. I've worked so hard to get this far, and it feels incredible to be on this track.

I am so grateful for all of you, for always supporting me and loving me. Thank you. I love you. (and if we're not family but you were kind enough to donate, I love you too)

XOXO, Amanita

P.S. The photo included above is a picture of the main building on the Yonsei campus!