NSLI-Y 2023 Korea – Week 3
As the ACES NSLI-Y program enters its third week in South Korea, the students are fully immersed in the vibrant culture of the country, cherishing every moment of their language learning and cultural experiences. From exploring the delicious flavors of Korean cuisine to engaging in traditional music performances and contemporary theatre, the students have been making the most of their time in this beautiful nation.
Group Photo at Starfield Library in COEX convention center, Gangnam.
Language learning is at the core of the NSLI-Y program, and the students have been thoroughly enjoying their Korean language classes. As they delve into the intricacies of the language, they are also actively participating in Peer Language Partner activities. This collaborative approach not only enhances their linguistic skills but also fosters meaningful connections among the students, bridging cultural gaps and broadening their perspectives.
ACES NSLI-Y students finally mastered customized self-introduction and a small conversation without glancing at scripts.
Ezra with His Korean Peer Partner.
Aditi with her Korean Peer Partner.
One notable highlight of the week was working on the students’ culminating projects. They took their chosen topics and skillfully related them to cultural discussions, showcasing their growing understanding of Korean traditions and customs. These projects were further enriched through engaging peer language partner activities, where the students exchanged knowledge and experiences, leading to a deeper appreciation of each other’s backgrounds.
Natelia, Charis, Sean, Sebastian, Julian, Radley, Andy, Ezra, Addie, Victoria, and Cristina in PLP activities.
Apart from their academic pursuits, the students have also been savoring the flavors of Korean cuisine. They ventured to local restaurants, delighting in traditional dishes such as the iconic kimchi stew. Sharing meals with their host families has become a cherished experience, allowing them to forge meaningful connections and gain insights into the daily lives of Koreans.
Speaking of host families, the students have developed strong bonds with them. Their host families have been instrumental in helping them explore popular areas, introducing them to local customs, and even sharing their hobbies. Beyond the cultural experiences, the host families have also been lending their support in academics, guiding the students through their homework and encouraging them to practice and improve their Korean language skills in a comfortable and nurturing environment.
Kimchi Stew for Lunch: Sebastian, Ezra, Sean, Radley, Julian, and Andy.
Kimchi Stew: Natelia, Francine, Victoria, Anju, Charis, and Cristina.
Anju with her host family.
Photo booth printouts of Anju and her host sister.
Addie in several photo booth snapshots with her host family.
Sean with his host brother.
Francine with her host family.
Andy playing the guitar for his host brothers.
Cristina in a special lesson on calligraphy with her host aunt.
It is evident that the students are making tremendous progress in both their language skills and their understanding of Korean culture. Despite their busy schedules, they have been spending quality time with their host families, sharing laughter, creating memories, and forming bonds that will last a lifetime. Whether they are making Korean food together, playing board games, taking walks, exercising as a team, or exploring popular sites, the students are savoring every aspect of their Korean experience.
Mid-week brought an exciting opportunity for the students to delve into the realm of traditional Korean music. They participated in a Gukak performance, where a professor from Dankook University imparted basic music lessons on traditional percussion instruments. The students learned to play notes on instruments like Janggu, Ggwangari, and traditional Korean drums. Guided by the expertise of the professor, staff from the Global office, and teaching assistants with a specialization in these instruments, the students found joy in creating mesmerizing melodies with age-old instruments.
Victoria, Addie, and Anju trying their hand at traditional percussion.
Cristina, Anju, Victoria, Aditi, Addie, and other participants posing with their drums.
Andy, Julian, and Ezra learn to play the ggwangari.
Professor, Musicians, Staff, and NSLI-Y students.
Aditi smiles mid-practice with a traditional drum.
Group photo after the gukak session.
The week culminated with a delightful Friday evening at the NANTA theater in Seoul, where the students witnessed a contemporary musical theatre show called Nanta. This South Korean non-verbal comedy incorporated traditional samul nori rhythm, centering on percussion instruments that were cleverly linked to cooking utensils and drums. What made the experience even more special was the active participation of the audience. Four lucky students: Cristina, Junho (mentor), Sean, and Francine, were called up to the stage and became an integral part of the show, following the performers’ instructions with enthusiasm and excitement.
Group photo at Starfield Library in COEX convention center before visiting the NANTA theater.
Addie and Victoria at the NANTA theater photo spot.
Andy, Sebastian, Ezra, Julian, and Radley.
Back: Radley, Ezra, Sebastian, Andy, Julian.
Middle: Anju, Addie, Victoria, Charis, Natelia
Front: Sean, Aditi, Cristina, Francine.
Walking to the restaurant after the NANTA performance, Seoul: Francine, Minju (mentor), Charis, Natelia, Anju, Cristina, Victoria, and Addie.
Dinner in Seoul after NANTA.
The NSLI-Y program has provided these young minds with an opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the rich tapestry of South Korea’s language, culture, and traditions. As they continue their journey of exploration and learning, we can’t wait to see what the following weeks have in store for them. The memories they are making will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on their lives, shaping them into culturally aware and globally minded individuals.