Student Spotlight: Hadija Primus in South Korea

What’s one challenge you’ve already encountered? How are you navigating it so far?

“One challenge that I've encountered is not allowing myself to be okay with not knowing. I've been beating myself up about not being fluent in Korean or freezing up too much when someone starts to speak to me in Korean. I expect myself to be good at navigating through Korea, but that's impossible because this is my first time here. So, I'm having a hard with giving myself a break.”

What differences (or unexpected similarities) have you noticed between your culture and your host culture?

“One difference that I have noticed between my culture and my host culture is that everyone is mindful of others in a way. For example, when taking the escalator, you should stand on the right, so that people in a rush can walk up the left side. Another thing is that people don't cover their mouths when they cough, and as a germaphobe, it's been driving me nuts. Growing up, I was taught to cough and sneeze into my elbow, which is not done in my host country.”

Have you stepped outside of your comfort zone yet? What did that feel like?

“On September 1st, 2025, marks the first time that I have traveled solo in a new country. I went to a beautiful study cafe in Seoul where I can see the Han River and the bridge across the river. Coming here will definitely motivate me to study more. I was so nervous. While I've been here, I've been scared to traveling on my alone and always ask a friend to join me to go somewhere. It was such a huge step for me that I could cry. I've been feeling a lot of emotions in such a short time and I'm still trying to interpret. I am truly grateful for this experience.”