Kerimgazieva, Nagima - Kyrgyzstan / International Trade

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

Hey! My name is Nagima and I’m from Kyrgyzstan! I’m currently a second-semester student majoring in International Trade, and a member of Spring 2023's Student Council. My major in bachelor was Economics and after graduation I came to Korea as GKS scholar. I spent an unforgettable one year in Daegu University learning Korean language and then I moved to Seoul to do Master degree. My MBTI is ENFP, that explains my curiosity and why I tend to run deep and meaningful connections with other people😊

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

First of all, Sogang GSIS offers courses 100% in English. Secondly, it offers courses that put into perspective for the importance and relevance of International Trade and the application of its fundamentals to the problems faced by the real world. And also, the location and facilities of university played a crucial role on the reason I chose Sogang GSIS.

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

During my language year I was usually hanging out with my friends because we had a lot of free time, but after starting my master's program I spend free time mostly at home watching K-dramas. Since I’m ENFP who likes spontaneous things without planning, if you ask me to go out, probably I’ll do😊

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

Seoul is a big, lively city and there are always what to do and where to go. I'm still in process of exploring Seoul. I like Yeonnam-dong area (the area between Sinchon and Hongdae), because there are numerous beautiful café and restaurants with local cute stores. Also, the small streets there are such a vibe!

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

Living abroad is not always beautiful pictures as we see on Instagram. It is also about tears and growth. The first and most important thing I would recommend, is to learn Korean language before coming to Korea. It is difficult to survive without knowing local language because it makes you feel lonelier. And secondly, take everything easy and do not overthink!

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

The most memorable experience at Sogang GSIS is the orientation day. I still remember that day so freshly, because Student Council, administration office and professors met us warmly and wished good luck. That day helped me to feel that I belong to a big community and we are united.

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

Look thoroughly the university’s website and plan courses you want to learn in advance. It will help you to be prepared. If you have questions, just ask, because until you ask a question, the answer is always no.

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

The facility is new, people are kind, administration office also treats us well, professors are experts-I enjoy my student life in Sogang GSIS. However, it would be great to have diverse courses, for example in marketing area. But I believe the best is yet to come!