My Seoulful Life

 Hello everyone!  We all know that choosing a Professor can make or break your entire career. In Korea, there are three "gods" - Doctor, Lawyer, and Professor. Every word Professor says has power. If you have some complaints with your professor and you complain it to the Office of International Affairs (OIA), they can do nothing about it. Professors in Korea has superior authority. So, choose wisely. During the interview phase in my case since I want to enter Environmental Engineering, I wasn't able to choose a professor, unfortunately. It just happened that I was already accepted into the lab that I thought the ONLY lab to fulfill my MS Envi. Eng'g course --- silly, I know. I never thought about the University having a lot of different kinds of labs because in my college days, we only have one lab specializing all types of areas - wastewater, solid waste, air, etc.... we just have one lab! So I thought when I came to Korea, I'll be joining the most appropriate la...

 Congratulations to the New GKS 2024 Successful Undergraduate Passers! See Link:  GKS 2024 UNDERGRADUATE PASSERS Sample View. AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS!

Embarking on the path of academia, particularly as a foreign student in Korea pursuing a research program, is a tapestry woven with challenges, resilience, and invaluable opportunities. It's a journey marked by sleepless nights, demanding tasks, and a rigorous academic environment. But amidst the trials, lies the promise of growth, discovery, and the generous embrace of the Global Korea Scholarship program. The decision to pursue a research program in Korea might seem daunting at first, but beyond the initial trepidation lies a landscape ripe with potential. The scholarship offered is not merely monetary; it is an investment in your future, a recognition of your potential, and an opportunity to delve into an academic environment known for its excellence and innovation. Undoubtedly, the road ahead may seem arduous. The demanding nature of research work often means late nights spent in the lab, grappling with complex experiments, and navigating through uncharted academic territories....

2023 has been a very challenging year for me. I am a researcher in South Korea and for almost 2 years I do not have a concrete result. I have lots of machine, pump, water bath problems. Every experiment failed. I lost hope. I was blinded by circumstances to the point that I rebelled with God! (Oh no, please do not do this). But, despite everything, there are a lot of things to be thankful for! 2023 made me realize a lot of things, so here are the lessons I've learned and discovered: - You are your own cheerleader. No one can push you except you. - You decide for your own happiness. Do not let other people steal your joy and peace. - Studying abroad is never easy but fulfilling. You discover yourself more when placed in a different environment. - You cannot please everyone. You are not everyone's cup of tea. - When in Korea, be like Koreans. Know their culture and do not assume everyone is polite. Some are good in hiding their true intentions. - Be kind, anyway. - Life is too sh...

Congratulations to the brilliant minds who have earned the prestigious title of New Global Korean Scholars for the year 2023!  Your exceptional academic achievements and unwavering dedication have set you apart, and we celebrate your success today. Your journey as scholars has been marked by countless hours of studying, researching, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Your pursuit of excellence in your respective fields has not only brought you this well-deserved recognition but has also contributed significantly to the advancement of global scholarship. As you embark on this new chapter of your academic careers, I encourage you to remember that knowledge is not just a destination but a lifelong journey. Embrace every opportunity to expand your horizons, challenge conventional wisdom, and explore uncharted territories. Keep pushing the boundaries of your knowledge, for it is through continuous learning and intellectual curiosity that you will make the greatest impact in your...

Dear Aspiring Scholars, It's now again the application time for GKS Graduate Degree (MS/PhD). I would like to re-share the information with you. Source: www.studyinkorea.go.kr Sharing with you my Google Drive for GKS Info since 2020: Time flies so fast so please CHECK IT OUT NOW! . . . . . . . . CHECK IT OUT! CHECK IT OUT! CHECK IT OUT! . . . . . . GOODLUCK TO YOUR APPLICATION! MAY THE ODDS BE IN YOUR FAVOR.

Hello, Annyeonghaseyo!!! First of all, I would like to greet you a Happy New Year!!! Start the year right, with positive mindset and attitude! Let me ask you one question, what's your dream? goal? Have you been putting off something that you knew you should've done before? You should be ready when the opportunity comes to your door!!! Don't wait any longer. If you're like me who once dreamed to study in South Korea, here's your sign, go and prepare that application! Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully-funded scholarship by the South Korean government. Take note, "fully-funded". This includes airfare, tuition fees, living expenses, insurance, and more! How to apply? Go to www.studyinkorea.go.kr, go to google and type "GKS notice" --- then read the previous application forms and guidelines for the previous year, or just read my blog about my application last 2020! ^^ Guidelines do change, but only a tiny bit. I hope you can get insights ...

Hello mga chingu! Annyeong haseyo, my friends! How have you been? It's been a long time, I know. Well, I became really busy. Life as a Graduate Student is never easy. But now, I want to update you of everything~ bit by bit. I entered Kangwon National University last March 2, 2022 (Spring Semester). At first, everything seemed so nice and easy. ahahahahaha! until, I felt pressured to learn everything in a short period of time. I need more TIME. Why? Because my subjects are ALL IN KOREAN . I know Korean, I can speak conversational korean, but " ACADEMIC KOREAN"?! NO!  It's my struggle. I have 수질화학 (water chemistry) course and it's all in korea. Chemistry itself is already hard plus reading it in Korean? My head just hurts!!! But by God's mergy, grace and overflowing blessings and strength, I somehow managed to pass my Spring Semester. Thank you, Lord! Pictures of Kangwon National University: KNU at night (near my laboratory) Beautiful traditional house Just me!...

Hello! You, yes YOU! Wala nang paligoy-ligoy pa. Mark your calendars on FEBRUARY 24, 2022 and prepare your questions regarding Global Korea Scholarship! Here it is: (POST from UP Korea Research Center Facebook Page) #UPKRC Korean Studies Info Session is back! Meet a Filipino scholar who is currently in Korea pursuing a graduate degree and learn more about the GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) application process and tips to live in Korea! Nicole Charis Pontanilla is a 2021 GKS Graduate Scholar set to undertake her Master's Degree at Korea University, Seoul, South Korea by the start of A.Y. 2022-2023 under the KU Department of Linguistics. Presently, she is attending Keimyung University in Daegu, South Korea for her Korean language year. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of the Philippines-Diliman with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics. Nicole was also an exchange student at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Seoul, South Korea during the Fall Semeste...

  Hello everyone! 안녕하세요! I know you've been curious or somewhat anxious about the GKS application process and you want to know some details about it based from experiences of people who already applied and passed. Without further ado, here are some websites that could help you (from Facebook, YouTube, etc). YOUTUBE: GKS application (detailed): from my GKS batchmate and friend Justin Van Rivera. Make sure to thank him on his site for his efforts despite our busy time! :) Link:  Just In Time GKS NOTICE: Link:  Study in Korea FACEBOOK (GROUPS) Link:  KGSP Applicants ,  KGSP NIIED Scholars That's all for now. :) I also have my YT Channel but haven't made about GKS yet. It's just a compilation of my Korean Life experiences here:  Filipina sa Korea Feel free to ask questions here and will answer you as soon as possible. Fighting! Take care and be safe.

 NOTICE: GKS 2022 APPLICANTS! Dear Prospective Applicants of the 2022 GKS Graduate Program ,   Starting from 2022 GKS-G program, NIIED will only accept  apostilled or consular confirmed documents  for part of the application documents. Please refer to the attached file for further information.   This notice is to provide prospective applicants with appropriate time to prepare the required documents since we are aware that certain documents require lead time to be authenticated in some countries.   The full set of application guidelines for 2022 GKS Graduate degree program will be released in February 2022. For now, please refer to 2021 application details for the time being. 2021 Application Guidelines of Global Korea Scholarship for Graduate Degrees   The application procedures are similar every year, but there may be slight changes in the country quota, application forms, eligibility, etc., so please read the updated 2022 application guidelines very ...

Hello everyone! I am back. I was really busy for the past months because I was so focused on my studies and preparing for the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) Exam. So here I am again to guide you in your journey also to becoming a future Global Korea Scholarship awardee. My question for you is - ARE YOU SURE YOU WANT THIS? It is not all about KOREA - it is about YOU , your dreams. How much do you want it and are you willing to pay the price? My story: (I am not saying that what I experienced here will be your experience too, just sharing hehe) We are now here in South Korea - ready to live the dream!!! Excited to pursue my Master's Degree but wait. . . FIRST, you need to pass the TOPIK II Exam .😅😅😅 Okay, so we are doing the Korean Language Classes. At first, it really looked sooooo exciting! - New faces, new country, new friends, new food, ALL NEW . And honestly speaking I thought the Korean language was easy. Why? because when you watch K-dramas, everything you hear is li...

Hello, everyone! Welcome to my blog! I have a news about GKS-G EMBASSY TRACK APPLICANTS in the PHILIPPINES. The deadline you've been waiting for was announced... Deadline... MARCH 19, 2021 . HURRY! APPLY NOW! View full post (copy-pasted) from Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines below: 2021 Global Korea Scholarship  The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines is pleased to announce that the schedule of the application for the 2021 Global Korea Scholarship (Graduate Degrees) is from 06 March 2021 to 19 March 2021. Program Objectives Global Korea Scholarship is designed to provide international students with opportunities to study at higher educational institutions in Korea at graduate-level degrees, which will enhance international education exchange and deepen mutual friendship between Korea and participating countries. ※ As Korean Government Scholarship Programs have been integrated and branded as Global Korea Scholarship in 2010, the name is changed to ...

Hello, Everyone! Welcome to my blog. As you all know, we, the 2020 GKS-G SCHOLARS were still in the Philippines due to COVID-19 Pandemic. Most of us resigned their respective jobs already after knowing that we were selected as scholars for the final round. I was one of those who resigned immediately, in preparation for South Korea.🇰🇷 Sadly, I had no job in the past 6 months. I relied on my online tutorial services and music serenades to live. Now, the long wait has ended. The time has come. The Korean Embassy in the Philippines now allows GKS Scholars to process D4 Visas. Only GKS. No EPS Workers and other regular student visas. We are very thankful for this exemption!~♡♡♡

 Hello everyone! Welcome to my blog. :) Want to increase the chances of being selected in the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Program? See tips below. *** DISCLAIMER: ALL THE TIPS STATED HERE ARE BASED ON MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AND OBSERVATION ONLY. I DO NOT REPRESENT NIIED OR ANY OTHER KOREAN ENTITIES .***

Hello everyone! Annyeong! Welcome to my blog! :) As we all know, some guidelines might be confusing so we want to be sure by asking questions. See below Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). AUTHENTICATED DOCUMENTS Q: Regarding the guideline that says, "When submitting notarized documents, place the original document before the notarized document.", please give us more direction.   A: If you are submitting an authenticated copy (notarized, apostilled, or Consular confirmed) in lieu of your original document, you can submit the authenticated copy only. If your document is written in a language other than English or Korean, you should submit a notarized translation of the authenticated copy and submit both of the documents. (For embassy track applicants: Make three photocopied sets of the authenticated documents, and submit a total of four sets of application documents to the embassy.) source:  https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/sub/gks/selectBoardArticle.do;jsessionid=nWAcOtFjqU...

  Hello everyone! Annyeong! Welcome to my blog. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) - Graduate Degree has officially started. Those who have been preparing for this, this is now your chance so better check out and read the guidelines well! :) You don't wanna get disqualified because you didn/t follow the instructions, right? GKS-G 2021 Before applying, consider which track do you want to take: Embassy vs. University Track. Taking Embassy vs University Track has many factors. First, check the QUOTA for EMB vs UNI track in your country. If UNI track has more quota, then apply for it. You have more chances than EMB track. Embassy Track Usually, people who apply for EMB Track are the ones with higher GPAs, with so many extra-curricular activities, volunteer works, and killer essays. The advantage of taking the EMB Track is that you may choose three (3) universities in your application, in case one rejects you, you still have two (2) options. *You will just send your applications to the Emba...

Hello everyone! Annyeong! Welcome to my blog! The long wait is over. GKS-G 2021 application has started! Are you ready?  For more info visit the site (studyinkorea):  GKS-G 2021 GKS 2021 Notice: Everything that you need to know is on the website. You may download the 2021 Guidelines there. Check my next blog for more detailed info about GKS-G 2021. Apparently, some guidelines were changed. Stay Tuned! Hope this helps~!

Hello everyone! Welcome to my blog! Congratulations on finishing your application forms. I know you spent a lot of time processing requirements and documents. So, it is time for you to finally submit it. Yehey! but....how? See below my tips on how to send your GKS application forms for both tracks. Submitting GKS forms: Embassy Track Hooray! This is the easiest compared to University Track (in most cases, except, if you are a foreigner in South Korea who lives near the University to which you are applying, haha). If you are near the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in your home country , then you may submit it personally. If you are far from the embassy, just submit it via courier of your choice. In any case, since you are just submitting to the embassy within  your country, expenses will be cheap compared to University Track. Submitting GKS forms: University Track Once you have made up your mind to that one and only one university which you want to be in, submit it via courier. ...

  Hello everyone! Welcome to my blog! :) I'll be talking about the Awards and Other Certificates part of the Global Korea Scholarship Application requirements. NOTE: That is a very tricky one, when you see the word "optional". :) In my own opinion, optional requirements are those that can either make or break you, it can be the reason why you are selected. Effort counts, my dear applicants. hehe Whatever the case, PLEASE ATTACH OPTIONAL DOCUMENTS because it will help you more in your application. Let us suppose that you and the other applicants have the same grades, same course (natural science & engineering), same everything, how will they pick you? You should have at least an edge, right? So in this blog, I will share with you some valuable optional requirements you need to attach. 1. VOLUNTEERING CERT. / PARTICIPATION     Volunteering while you are doing your Undergraduate is a great way to show them that you can multi-task, you have a work-life balance, and you ha...