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

Hi! My name is Eilen, and I am an international relations PhD student. I completed my master’s degree in political science back in Norway, before coming to Korea two years ago. Before I started my PhD studies, I spent one year in a language school here in Seoul (which I highly recommend doing). My curricular interests are security politics and South Korea-North Korea relations. As for my MBTI, I know I am an ENTJ and that I am an extrovert and overall, a curious person. I love hanging out with friends and listening to music, which makes karaoke and some wine the perfect activity to unwind for me😊

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

First of all, I chose to study in Korea because I wanted to specialize in security politics on the Korean Peninsula. When it came to choosing University, I went with Sogang because the professors have a high competence on the specific areas of research that I want to learn more about. During the interview process with Universities, Sogang stood out to me as the professors seemed to be genuinely interested in my research interests, and the application process was very “foreigner friendly” and easy to navigate.

How do you usually spend your spare time in Korea?

Spare time is a luxury that I do treat myself to quite often. As already mentioned, a night out with friends at a karaoke is a frequent weekend activity for me. Nothing beats relieving some stress with a good jam in a small karaoke room with friends that willingly listens to your terrible voice while cheering you on.
I also love road trips ranging from short 20-minute drives to full day excursions! My childhood friend from Norway and her boyfriend recently visited Korea, and together with my boyfriend, the four of us drove to Nami Island. We also enjoyed a short drive in Gimpo to see the cherry blossoms at their peak.

Can you recommend your favorite place / spot in Seoul?

My favorite place in Seoul is anywhere I can sit down around Hangang and eat some street food. I love seeing that in the middle of such a big and busy city, Hangang is a common place for everyone (families, couples, friend groups) to gather and enjoy the view, tasty foods, and green grass.

Any recommendations or know-how on life in Korea?

Well, learning Korean makes life in Korea easier. Even just learning basic customary phrases is useful, and it also gives you a better understanding of the culture.

Also, lean on your close friends when you feel stuck! Most likely they will have been through many of the same struggles as you. As students in a foreign country, we do not have the same support system as back home, such as family. But I have found that my close friends have become like my second family abroad because we frequently share our struggles and support each other in any situation.

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

My most memorable experience was when the professors did a workshop on how to publish articles with us students. Although this may not seem like the most extravagant event amongst all the different types of social gatherings that the student council at Sogang GSIS organizes, it was so useful! Publishing articles are not a requirement for us to graduate. However, it is very beneficial to have on your resume, yet very difficult to start the process without some guidance. These kinds of events also allow us to get to know our professors more and the work they do as academics. The major parties where both students and professors gather to eat and chat are another great example of this, although under less formal circumstances.

Do you have any advice for the prospective students of Sogang GSIS?

Remember to enjoy your time as a student abroad. Life as a graduate student can be quite stressful at times but exploring the nightlife, learning about the culture, and expanding your network is also very important and rewarding, both for your social life and for your studies. Being a student here provides you with amazing opportunities to understand more about cultural differences and international relations in real life.

Do you have anything to say to Sogang GSIS?

I am just very grateful for all the friends I have made from all over the world and the openness and commitment from the professors. Thank you!