Introducing HOW.U

Are you familiar with HOW.U, the official ambassador group of the Office of International Affairs at the University of Ulsan, responsible for the university's global vision? Let's delve into the world of HOW.U.

Buddy.U Performance Report

1. Please introduce yourself.

Hello! I am Bae Sujin, a sophomore in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Ulsan and the newly appointed president of the 17th HOW.U. I joined HOW.U in February 2023 as a Japanese translator and worked until June 2024. Now, I am honored to lead the team as its president.

2. Could you briefly introduce HOW.U?

HOW.U stands for 'Hang Out With Us.' It is an official ambassador group under the Office of International Affairs at the University of Ulsan. We support international students' adaptation and facilitate various programs for exchange between domestic and international students. Our activities include orientation for new international students, cultural exchange programs, and numerous events to enhance the global experience for everyone involved. HOW.U is divided into the executive, operations, promotions, and translation teams, consisting of students from various fields, not just those majoring in languages.

3. What motivated you to join HOW.U?

I have always been interested in studying abroad or participating in exchange programs. During my college entrance preparation, I learned about HOW.U through a recruitment post on our university community app, 'Everytime.' I was particularly attracted to the idea of gaining extra points for exchange programs and building friendships with international students. This led me to apply for the translation team, where I felt my skills would be most useful.

4. What nationalities make up the majority of international students at HOW.U?

The demographics vary yearly, but about 70% of international students generally come from East Asia and Southeast Asia, with the remaining 30% from English-speaking countries. Specifically, graduate students mostly come from Pakistan, Vietnam, and China, while undergraduate students hail from China, Southeast Asia, Japan, France, and Germany.

5. What major support services does HOW.U provide for international students?

One of our key services is the orientation program held one week before each semester starts. This orientation provides essential information such as setting up Korean bank accounts, creating UINUS IDs, and dormitory guidelines. We also run a Buddy Program, Korean language classes, monthly events, and field trips to explore key Korean cities. We aim to assist with both major and minor issues that international students may encounter while adjusting to life in Korea.

6. Could you introduce some programs where international and Korean students can interact?

One of our most notable programs is BUDDY.U, where Korean students and international students are paired to help each other adapt to university life, exchange languages, and share cultural experiences. This long-term program runs throughout the semester and includes various activities, with scholarships and prizes awarded at the end-of-semester evaluation.

7. How can Ulsan University students join HOW.U?

Since HOW.U is not a regular club with year-round recruitment, interested students should apply during the summer and winter vacations when we recruit new members. We promote our events through our official Instagram and offline posters around campus, so keep an eye out for these announcements and participate in our activities!

8. What are the biggest challenges international students face, and how does HOW.U address them?

The challenges vary greatly depending on the individual and their country of origin. Students from geographically and culturally distant countries like the USA or Europe often struggle with homesickness and adjusting to Korean food. HOW.U helps alleviate these challenges by organizing social activities, exploring local cuisines, and providing emotional support to help them feel more at home.

9. What is the most rewarding aspect of interacting with international students through HOW.U?

Initially, the simple joy of talking and making friends with international students was rewarding. However, over time, the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing them enjoy our events and appreciate our efforts. Knowing that our hard work pays off when they say they had fun and want to join again is incredibly fulfilling.

10. Can you share a memorable experience or funny episode from your time at HOW.U?

There are many memorable moments, but one that stands out is when our translation team had to perform instant translations during events. Watching my fellow team members translate scripts live on stage in front of an audience was impressive and a unique experience that I cherish.

11. What is the biggest challenge in your work with HOW.U?

The biggest challenge is fostering camaraderie among new and existing members and bridging the gap between international students and HOW.U. Strong teamwork within HOW.U is crucial for the smooth execution of events, and effective communication with international students ensures that they feel comfortable approaching us with any issues.

12. How do you overcome these challenges?

We organize orientation programs for new members, weekly meetings, and social events like MT (Membership Training) to build team spirit. For international students, we maintain an open and friendly atmosphere at the Global Lounge, where they can interact with us and participate in various activities.

13. What future goals does HOW.U have, and what personal dreams do you aim to achieve through your activities with HOW.U?

We hope to organize more off-campus events involving international and Korean students, promoting HOW.U as a key part of the University of Ulsan's identity. Personally, my involvement with HOW.U has helped me grow in numerous ways, and I wish for more students to have similarly enriching experiences. I dream of pursuing studies or a career abroad, and the skills and insights gained through HOW.U have been invaluable in shaping this vision.

14. Finally, do you have any messages for all of the students of the University of Ulsan? 

Since its inception in the second semester of 2016, HOW.U has built a meaningful legacy as the university's official ambassador group. We have received positive feedback from both international and Korean students for our events and activities. I hope more students will experience the benefits of HOW.U and participate in our programs. We are committed to planning engaging events and making the adaptation process for international students as smooth as possible. Everyone, hang out with us!

HOW.U continues to play a vital role in enhancing the global experience at the University of Ulsan, bridging cultural gaps, and fostering international friendships. For more information and updates, follow HOW.U on their official Instagram.

Shin Seoyeong Reporter

seoyeongshin@mail.ulsan.ac.kr