Sheila Ta ’25 shares her experience studying in South Korea as a recipient of the Don Reid Sogang University Scholarship. Learn about the program »

Spending 4 weeks studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea allowed me to immerse myself in the city’s vibrant, fast-paced culture. While there, I connected with locals and engaged with the passionate professors teaching at Sogang University’s International Summer Program.

This wasn’t my first trip to Seoul. As a high school student, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I participated in a virtual immersion program offered by the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y). In college, I seized the opportunity to apply for the NSLI-Y alumni program, leading to an unforgettable two-week immersion in Seoul. This experience reignited my passion for studying abroad and inspired me to apply for the Don Reid Scholarship, making my dream of studying in South Korea a reality.

 

 

This time, Seoul became more than a destination; it was a dynamic learning environment filled with exploration, discovery, and meaningful connections. Each day presented new adventures, from singing elementary Korean songs in my Korean language class to gaining insights into how individuals change the world from where they are in their own communities.

A highlight of my experience was exploring my interest in gaming and its intersection with economics. I discovered how my professors were not only enthusiastic about game design and play but also deeply invested in its broader impact. Professor Amine shared his vision of expanding gaming to Morocco, aiming to boost its GDP and provide children with new opportunities. Meanwhile, Professor Samha was committed to supporting diverse careers in the gaming industry, developing successful business models for gaming companies, as well as educating children about games.

 

 

Before this experience, I had a limited knowledge of the gaming industry’s educational structure and the various career paths. My summer coursework allowed me to create my own team, engage with industry professionals, and witness the industry’s inner workings firsthand. From renowned gaming studios to prominent esports teams such as DRX, governing bodies like the Korea e-Sports Association (KeSPA), and statistical analysis firms like OP.GG, I learned about each organization’s crucial role in sustaining the industry’s growth and competitive edge. At KRAFTON, our class was invited to test out a new game they were working on and even give them feedback, suggestions and critiques before its release. This experience deepened my appreciation for esports, showcasing the synergy of creativity, strategy, technology, and community.

What struck me most was Seoul’s potential to lead the charge in breaking the stigma surrounding funding for the gaming industry. The city’s innovative approach and support systems, exemplified by KeSPA, show how governance can drive significant progress and overcome financial barriers. I believe Seoul stands at the forefront of changing perceptions and advancing the industry, and the class I took there is something I could not have experienced anywhere else in the world.

My experience in Seoul was inspiring and enlightening. It sparked joy and encouraged me to explore beyond the professional gaming sphere into its broader economic ecosystem. It reinforced my belief in the potential of esports and its capacity for growth and innovation, illustrating that Seoul is a key player in shaping the future of this dynamic industry.