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A small group of Arts University Bournemouth students pose for a photo in front of some steps and a grassy bank in Seoul, South Korea.

Manali Shinde – 120 days of Seoul

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  • Fine Art

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The sound of taxi drivers and the rolling wheels of suitcases filled the air as I sat near the exit of Pune Airport, letting the experiences of the past four months fill me. This moment not only marked the end of an exchange programme but was also the start of a new chapter, rich with carrying forth a new point-of-view.

I had arrived in Seoul, South Korea, as a curious art student and left with a deeper understanding of cultural narratives, global perspectives and a newfound confidence in my ability to adapt. While bittersweet, this moment carried an influx of gratitude – for the lessons, the meaningful connections and the stories that will stay with me.

The beginning

This journey began two years ago when I was researching university options for a Fine Art degree. I was drawn to BA (Hons) Fine Art at AUB for its dynamic approach, incorporating gallery visits, fellowship programs and student exchanges to encourage global exposure to their students. When, in my second year, I attended a presentation regarding student exchange at Hongik University in South Korea, I was intrigued. Though I had little prior knowledge about Seoul, something about the opportunity appealed to me. My peers were hesitant to apply, but after some encouragement from my family, I decided to embrace the challenge.

Preparing for the journey consisted of navigating logistical hurdles – visa applications academic and portfolio requirements, as well as coordinating my travel plans with fellow students who decided to opt for the exchange. My previous experience as an international Indian student at AUB, as well as the University’s support, helped me manage this process. I soon learned that five students in total would be attending the program from AUB, and together, we began this journey.

Discovering Seoul

Stepping into Seoul was like stepping into a city that fluidly balanced the past and the present into one. Lots of traditional temples and palaces existed within the same space as modern architecture, creating this fast-paced, spontaneous city that was unlike anything I had seen before. Our initial weeks were spent exploring the area of Hongdae, a student neighbourhood surrounding Hongik University. Known for appealing to the youthful crowds, this area is full of uniquely themed cafés, bars, vintage stores and more. It quickly became an ideal source of inspiration. Over time, my exploration extended beyond Hongdae, but this place held a special spot in my heart – where I lived, studied and uncovered local gems.

Beyond the city itself, the human connections I formed while on this exchange truly shaped this experience to be a unique one. I frequently visited a small gimbap (Korean seaweed rolls) where the owner’s friendly demeanour turned warm meals into meaningful conversations. In a nearby café, where I often visited for a quick cup of coffee between classes, the owner took an interest in my work and let me put up a quick sketch I had made on one of their walls. These relationships transformed my understanding and engagement with the Korean culture – it wasn’t just about observing; it was about sharing, engaging and forming genuine bonds.

Learning beyond the classroom

Academically, this exchange program was just as enriching. The structure of the South Korean education system mirrored that of India’s, contrasting the British approach at AUB. This offered an unexpected yet insightful comparison. With the help of the faculty back at AUB, I was able to manage my educational requirements at both institutions, undertaking assignments at AUB as well as exams at Hongik. More than coursework challenged my ability to manage responsibilities at both institutions – a skill invaluable towards my future endeavours.

A new perspective

As my time in Seoul came to an end, I found myself reflecting not just on the places I visited and the new experiences I gained but also on the change in my perception of the world. While there will always be more to explore, the friendships, cultural insights and resilience I developed will help me navigate my journey forward. This experience solidified my passion for storytelling, cross-cultural narratives and uncovering the nuances that shape people’s lives.

Returning to Pune, I was bringing back more than just souvenirs; I was carrying a new way of seeing the world. As I set my sights on my next steps, I do so with the knowledge that stories are everywhere, waiting to be told. It is through these stories that we bridge differences, distances and perspectives, ultimately understanding the world better.

Something to think about

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