On November 7, Sookmyung held an information event to introduce Sookmyungians to international exchange programs in Samsung Convention Center at Centennial Hall. It was organized by the Office of International Affairs and chaired by Choi Sooyoung, who is in charge of exchanges to the US and Europe. Four types of international exchange information aspects were highlighted: the selection and application process for going on an exchange, the method of obtaining multiple degrees, overseas internships, and short-term overseas programs. Choi described in detail the exchange programs students are most interested in. As most nations, other than Korea, follow a September school year starts, SMWU selects exchange students one semester prior to the March semester. Any student in their second to the sixth semester at SMWU may apply, but they must have a GPA of at least 2.7 and meet the TOEFL IBT requirement of 72 points. She also pointed out that students in the seventh semester are forced to take time off from school to be exchange students. At Sookmyung Women’s University, once a student has registered for their 8th semester, they are not permitted to leave from school, so any student who wishes to go on an exchange and is currently in their seventh semester must take a formal leave of absence to participate. In recent years, however, a number of SMWU exchange student programs have been delayed but the tuition fee was not refunded. In response, Choi announced the introduction of a new system that would give students who are on leave from school for the purposes of an exchange a 100% deduction on their tuition fee payments. She also explained the FSU Disney internships and KOTRA internships and talked about internship culture and the unpaid system abroad. Choi Woorim, Department of English Language & Literature ’19, who participated in the event, said, “I am planning on applying for an exchange program, but I cannot afford the overseas tuition costs, so it was a great opportunity to learn about exchanges, support, and other overseas programs through today's event.” The forum was beneficial for all and provided participants with the information they need to move out into the greater world and become global leaders.
