Tran, Kieu Chinh - Vietnam / International Trade

1. Please introduce yourself (background, interests, your MBTI, and so on)

Hey beautiful and handsome people! My name is Chinh from Hanoi, Vietnam. I am a first semester graduate student of International Trade at Sogang GSIS though I took English for International Relations for my undergraduate. I am a globetrotter and love to explore new places, who does not? Hands-on, physical activities like tennis or indoor hiking are always on my go-to list as well as having gatherings with friends. That could explain why I am an ESTP-A!)

2. Can you tell us the reason why you chose to study at Sogang GSIS?

First and foremost, Sogang GSIS has every course taught in English, which is beneficial to me as I am not good at Korean (still). The courses in my major are practical and interesting at the same time. I have yet absorbed much knowledge about International Trade in general before I joined this program, but I keep getting better day by day after attending awesome classes and getting to know brilliant friends here in Sogang GSIS.

3. How do you usually spend your spare time in Korea?

I love exploring places, hanging out with friends, and playing sports so you can usually spot me at the tennis court, around Han river (riding a bike of course), and for sure at parties! Hey but do not get me wrong, I am not a party-person all the time, I also enjoy spending time alone watching movies or reading books as well.

4. Can you recommend your favorite place/spot in Seoul?

You should give 한강 반포 공원 a try to catch sunset and enjoy the water show at Banpo Bridge. It is a perfect spot to spend your quality time with people in your circles, and I guarantee you that it will ever be remembered. Riding a bike to go there is also an option, the view of 세빛섬 will not let you down either. 

5. Any recommendations or know-how on life in Korea?

Get yourself at least a Korean friend! I am super lucky to meet one by chance and he is a great help to me whenever and wherever it could be. I know maybe some of you think it is so dependent of me to do it, but trust me, having a local with you is the best! Plus you have added someone in your circle, doesn’t sound nice?

6. Can you share your most memorable experience at Sogang GSIS with us?

I would say it’s the IT major party. For the first time after Covid that we can finally get together, enjoy dinner with other grad students and professors of our program. I got to know many bright, amazing, and talented friends during the party. We share a lot of experiences living in Korea, studying for exams, and more importantly, being friends. I really threw it all out at the party, and so did my friends! You’ll realize that nothing can compare to this kind of gathering later on!

7. Do you have any advice for the prospective students at Sogang GSIS?

Check out the courses and any suggested materials coming along! I did not major in International Trade in my undergraduate school, so I had to dive into the website of Sogang GSIS to find related information, and trust me, it helps. Besides, you can reach out for the Student Councils or the Teaching Assistants if you have anything to ask.

8. Do you have anything to say to Sogang GSIS?

Thank you for making Sogang GSIS my second home! The officers, professors, student council, teaching assistants, and all of my friends at Sogang GSIS have been supporting me with academic and social life since day 1! And I am very grateful for it! I would definitely recommend Sogang GSIS for people who are attempting to apply for a graduate school in South Korea!