Mika's journey through Korea and Japan
Seeing the world and developing the technologies of tomorrow - that is Mika's big dream. The Paderborn student is 23 years old and loves discovering new things. He is currently studying Business Informatics at Paderborn University and law at Bielefeld University. In order to discover modern technologies and the Asian economic region, he spent his semester abroad at EWHA Womans University in Seoul, Korea.
From Germany to Korea
When Mika lands in Seoul, he is ready for what he calls a "real culture shock". The Paderborn student wants to get out of Europe and feel really foreign for once. Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is the perfect place for him: modern skyscrapers stand between historic palaces, colourful street markets and lively cafés. And the culture is also fundamentally different from what Mika knows from home. "Korea is a relatively small country that is clearly characterised by the Korean War. Many cultural sites were destroyed or reconstructed and much has been lost. Korean culture therefore felt like a mix of modern Western and traditional Asian influences to me," reports Mika.
The EWHA - the "modern Hogwarts"
He is particularly enthusiastic about his university, EWHA Womens University, in the heart of Seoul. "The EWHA campus is beautiful, you feel a bit like you're at Hogwarts all the time," he says with a laugh. At the same time, EWHA is a very modern private university. For example, there is a cinema on campus as well as a gym for all students.
Nevertheless, Mika initially feels like a stranger at EWHA. The university is actually an all-female university - only a few exchange students are male. As a result, Mika immediately stands out in many courses: "I was often approached by Korean women, but it was still not easy to make friends beyond the lecture theatre."
In addition, the tuition fees at the private university are very high. Many students therefore study a lot in order to complete their studies as quickly as possible. This means that Korean students rarely have time for leisure or close friendships.
The courage to be alone: Encounters that change
Mika gathers countless new impressions during his time in Korea. However, the experience of what it means to be truly alone is particularly formative for him. "Hardly anyone talks about that," he explains. "A semester abroad isn't just about adventures with new friends - you're often simply on your own. But that doesn't have to be a negative thing. I learnt an incredible amount about myself during this time."
Mika remains open to new things: "Doing something on your own is mainly in your head. At first it feels strange to go out to eat alone, but once you've done it, you lose your shyness. In a big city, being alone can actually be a real strength," he explains.
One evening, Mika met two Chinese people with whom he spontaneously spent the evening - an unexpected but all the more valuable opportunity for the Paderborn native to gain an authentic insight into Chinese culture. "It was only after several pots of tea that I realised that in China you always get a refill as soon as the cup is empty," says Mika with a laugh. "So if you're no longer thirsty, it's better not to drink the whole cup."
Backpacking through Japan
Following his semester abroad, Mika fulfils his wish to experience even more of the Asian culture on a backpacking trip through Japan. His tour takes him through metropolises, coastal towns and mountain landscapes. One unforgettable highlight: climbing Mount Fuji together with an American family.
What does Mika have to say about the two Asian countries? "Korea has this special charm and is not so crowded. In Japan there is more culture, more hustle and bustle, but it was more difficult for me to make contact with people."
Back home - with new perspectives
Today, Mika not only talks about places and encounters, but also about how much he has grown. He has learnt to appreciate the little things in everyday life more again - good food, friendships, the feeling of home. He has realised that you don't have to be afraid to try things out on your own. And that the same rule applies everywhere in the world: Friendliness opens doors.
His conclusion is clear: "A semester abroad is much more than just a few months at another university. It's a change of perspective - and a memory for life."
Next up for Mika is another semester abroad in China. Letting herself drift, listening to tips from locals and letting herself be surprised. "I don't want to work through the country, I want to experience it," says Mika, describing his plan.
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