REAL orientation

So today was the second day of our pre-departure orientation in NYC and it all feels so surreal. Like, we are all actually heading to Korea tomorrow. Crazy. But basically today consisted of mostly sitting in a conference room a few streets away from Columbia, watching presentations, asking questions, doing a few ice breakers (what I learned today: NSLI-Y loves icebreakers), and basically getting psyched for Korea. I've never talked so much at once about Korea in my life, it was really cool and weird and awesome. Before the orientation we had breakfast at an on campus dining hall (and lunch as well) and it was delicious. It was a huge buffet, and if this is what college students eat, I'm down for that. They even had dessert pastries at breakfast, and ice cream at lunch.

But at the orientation we covered so much material, some of it was straightforward, but some was a lot to take in. It wasn't too overwhelming though! It just got tiring sitting there all day haha. The first half before lunch was about goals, language learning, the aim of NSLI-Y, culture, and culture shock. Basically they wanted us to remember to keep an open mind about everything there. Also, we might be one of the only Americans that some of the people we meet have ever actually talked to before, so we need to make a good impression and represent our country well. Respect was a big thing (maybe something useful to put in your essay if you're applying?). Anyways, at the end of the day, we are there to learn the language. They are paying for our flights, our transportation, lodging, giving us a once in a lifetime chance to study at one of the most prestigious Korean schools, and essentially taking us over there for one (main) reason: to learn the language. That means we have to go to class, study, practice, and work hard. But really, that isn't much to ask considering we get to do it at really no expense. Plus, why would you apply if you weren't willing to put in the work at the program? All of us here really love Korea, Korean culture, or just languages in general. We are all prepared and excited, so studying will actually be kind of fun (wow). And moving on from that long rant, the later half of the day consisted of presentations from alumni, the state department, security, and program rules. We also wrote a letter to our future selves so that we will get them in the middle of the program, just in case we are feeling down and need some encouragement. The state department presentations were cool- one was from the diplomat in residence in NYC and the other was from a woman who works in the state department with the exchange programs. The alumni presentations were honestly the most helpful though. They experienced what we are about to go through, they have been there and know what it's like. They answered a lot of questions and gave a ton of good cultural tips (two hands for money and handshakes, don't look people in the eye when getting reprimanded, don't point, wave people over palm down, the list goes on and on). They were also really friendly and easy to talk to outside of orientation as well! After the orientation we just split up, walked around and went out for dinner. The last American meal we had was Chipotle. Classy. Then we got gelato and explored some more, but basically it is all about getting to know each other and forming friendships at this point! 

It was kind of hot and I look awful, but everyone will see me at my worst tomorrow on the plane, so might as well start warming them up now. I'm excited for Korea- tomorrow is going to be an early morning! 안녕~