NSLI-Y 2023 Korea – Week 2
Embracing Korean Buddhism, Mentorship, and Cultural Connections
In the second week, we embarked on a transformative adventure – a temple stay at Woljeongsa Temple & Fir Tree Forest. This enlightening experience allowed us to deepen our understanding of Korean Buddhist culture while expanding our language skills. Join us as we relive the highlights of this remarkable journey, along with other exciting activities that made this week truly unforgettable.
Woljeongsa Temple & Fir Tree Forest.
Woljeongsa Temple & Fir Tree Forest.
Lunch with the ACES president, Michael Li: Victoria, Addie, Michael, Cristina, Francine, Charis, Natelia, Aditi, and Anju.
Korean Language Progress
Our language classes expanded beyond the Korean alphabet, delving into more complex grammar structures, vocabulary, and conversational skills. This exciting milestone allowed us to immerse ourselves in authentic cultural experiences, practice our language skills in real-life situations, and form genuine connections with local students. Exploring Korea through the eyes of our newfound friends was a priceless opportunity, offering us invaluable insights into Korean culture and enhancing our overall experience.
Dinner with new Korean friends: Sean, Ezra, Andy, and Korean Peer Partners.
In addition, we engaged in activities with our new Peer Partners, where we explored various aspects of high school life in Korea and engaged in colloquial self-introductions in Korean. These interactive sessions allowed us to gain a comprehensive understanding of Korean education, daily routines, and social dynamics. It was an eye-opening experience that fostered cultural exchange, promoting a deeper appreciation for Korean society.
Peer Partner Activities
Lunch box delivery to the classroom: Aditi, Anju, Victoria, and Addie.
Lunch box delivery to the classroom: Natelia, Francine, Charis, and Cristina.
Outing with Mentor Minju: Anju, Aditi, Addie, and Victoria.
Outing with mentor Junho (taking the picture): Andy, Radley, Sebastian, and Ezra.
Embracing Korean Buddhism
The temple stay at Woljeongsa Temple & Fir Tree Forest marked the culmination of our transformative language programs second week, providing a deeply spiritual and reflective experience. Through the guidance of our mentors, Junho and Minju, students were able to immerse themselves in Korean Buddhist culture, fostering a profound appreciation for its teachings and rituals. This adventure brought together all the elements of our journey – cultural immersion, language development, and personal growth.
Activities with Mentors, Junho and Minju at Woljeongsa Temple & Fir Tree Forest.
Our temple stay began with an immersive introduction to Korean temple etiquette, skillfully guided by our dedicated mentor, Junho. We learned the importance of respect, silence, and mindfulness while engaging in the temple activities. This knowledge set the stage for our authentic and profound experience, ensuring that we fully embraced the traditions and values of the temple. The mentors-led sessions not only enhanced students’ language learning experience but also enabled them to establish a deeper connection with ourselves and the surrounding environment.
Meditation session: Radley, Sebastian, Julina, Addie, Victoria, Anju, and Ezra.
As dusk settled, we eagerly participated in the evening Buddhist service, immersing ourselves in the rituals and chants led by the resident monk. This intimate experience provided us with a unique glimpse into the spirituality and devotion deeply embedded in Korean Buddhist culture. The service resonated with us, fostering a sense of unity and reverence. To complete the day’s activities, the resident monk introduced us to the practice of 108 prostrations. Engaging in this physical activity, which involved bowing and stretching, allowed us to cultivate humility, gratitude, and concentration. Additionally, under the temple staff guidance, students had the privilege of crafting their own prayer beads – tangible symbols of our spiritual journey and sources of inspiration for future reflection.
Check-in at the temple.
Evening Buddhist service led by the resident monk.
Evening Buddhist service led by the resident monk.
Crafting a prayer beads: Sebastian, Andy and temple staff person.
ACES NSLI-Y Korea students with Mentors, Junho and Minju at Woljeongsa Temple & Fir Tree Forest.