For lifelong New Yorker Tim Publik ’22, SUNY New Paltz’s study abroad program fulfilled a teenaged aspiration.
“I knew as a high schooler that studying abroad would be something I’d be interested in, regardless of where I went to school,” he said. “I’m fascinated by the different culture in Asia, and when I saw the opportunity to take classes taught in English, I wanted to see what life in Seoul, South Korea was all about.”
The affordability of a semester abroad in Seoul was equally enticing for him.
“To study abroad in a whole different country for around the same price as New Paltz was a no-brainer,” he said.
The experience brought Publik a sense of double culture shock: being in a new country and adapting to a changing environment of learning. He took classes that gave him a sense of the rigors in the South Korean higher education system.
Even from afar, New Paltz’s Center for International Programs made sure Publik adjusted okay.
“The Center was in communication with me and checked in with me every couple of weeks to see how I was doing,” he said.
While studying abroad, Publik was free to explore Seoul’s restaurants, hiking trails and museums with other international students.
“I was willing to put myself out there and explore Korea with friends,” he said. “It was interesting to share different perspectives with people from all walks of life.”
After he came back, he found on-campus work as a peer advisor for the Center for International Programs, where he helps students looking to embark on similar experiences.
“I’m always grateful for the opportunity to talk to other students about my time abroad,” he said. “I want students to know it’s never too early to start planning!”
Interested in studying abroad? April 1 is the deadline for the fall 2023 semester. Click here to learn how to apply.
