Although we are in the same university, still there is a gap between international students and Korean students. Shin Ha Rim(’16, the school of law) is a president of ISU and deputy director of global department of student government. To close the gap, the Handong Press met her and listened to her many interesting stories of Carmichael college and i-house(international house).


Q What is the special difference between Carmichael college and other colleges?

I think the biggest difference that features prominently is cultural diversity. You can experience all over the world in one place. There are many events that start with this feature. For example, we played the songs of team members’ countries and danced together at the team meeting. Also, culture night is a festival to experience cultures of various countries which ISU supervises.


Q What are the benefits of international house?
Since there are many Korean people in Handong Global University and international people are a minority, a lot of international students could feel alienated, however, Carmichael college provide a sense of belonging a community through becoming friends. Korean people also have merit that is a good opportunity to experience the real Handong Global University directly.

Q What do you think about still having a way to go?
I think the problem is about a barrier between Korean and international students. Even though both students want to become friends with each other, many students seem to feel difficult becoming friends. Living disconnectedly as an international house might makes a barrier larger. I wish international students also could choose the dormitories and RCs so that every student in Handong could get along together. That is the ultimate aim of Handong Global University. Also, there are many rights that international students couldn’t enjoy just because they are a minority, such as lack of English provision or right for learning. Considering this is one of the most important way to proceed.


Q What is the atmosphere like in i-house?
The whole ambiance is basically very free. People don’t being difficult, and also I don’t feel uncomfortable or difficult just because they are older than me. Students can socialize with each other, with everyone in a free atmosphere of i-house. As a direct example, when someone playing a piano or guitar in the koinonia room at i-house, other people are gathering with their instruments and playing music together. They get along with each other in just a few minutes, regardless of their nationalities or acquaintances. Even in a lounge, people usually saying hello to others in the same room.


Q How do you feel about professors of Carmichael college?
They are really good. We have such an intimate relationship with professors. I used to visit the professor’s home, and professor usually have a meal with us. Some professors even came to the birthday party of team members. Through the professors, I realized special and good people in Handong are around me.

 

Hye Eon Kim, Guest Reporter
 

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