Korean Job Discussion Forums

[furtakk]

Anyone have experience with any of the Korean language programs at any of the universities in Daegu? Specifically 계명 or 경북? Is one much better than the other? I think the next semester is starting at the end of May and I'm hoping to attend one of the two. Any help/tips are appreciated. In terms of location, 계명 is better for me, but either are doable.

EDIT: Does anyone also have a link to the current program at 경북? I've tried for hours, but can only find info about the 2009 program.

[LikeFrostOnRoads]

+1... I'm hoping to hop on a course last minute, too. I'm checking out the YMCA today, but I think the new semester already started...

[nfld_chingu]

I take Korean class at the YMCA in Daegu ... the current semester goes until mid-June. I'm not sure if you can join at this time or if you have to wait until the next semester. The classes are pretty good and cheap too.

[coralreefer_1]

I took the Korean class at Daegu University, and was satisfied. I have known people to take the classes at both of the universities you mention, and while KNU seems to have a much larger diversity of different nationalities, I have heard it said from several Koreans that the Korean program there was not as good at other universities because in their words " it is a national university, they do not put much focus on attracting foreign students and teaching them Korean"

Whether or not that has any truth to it I cannot say, just what I have heard over the years.

I can say that when I was looking to enter a program I visited 3 universities (KNU/Yeongnam/Daegu) and the woman whom I met at KNU was VERY unprofessional and rude. Basically I went in June to ask about the following semester/dormitory fees/class fees..etc. Not only could they not answer any of those questions, but when I walked into the office looking for information, there were about 6 people sitting there who all looked at me, but no-one bothered to speak to ask if I needed help or why I was there. When I did finally sit down with someone (A very young students aged employee) to get information, the female director of the program sat literally 2 meters away but could not muster up even a "hello" or even acknowledge my presence. Considering the lack of info, the nature of the room, and the fact that I actually had to go there in person because I couldn't get any of my information requests by email answered, I chose another university.

Sorry to say, but when I am there to lay down close to $6000 for a year of study, I expect to be treated with a little more respect. Because of that situation, the things I said above about what I had heard seemed to hold more weight.

[bluelake]

I am taking a class at Yeungnam University and I like it a lot. Of course, it is is not only the university or program that makes a difference, but the particular teacher, too. The teacher I have now is young, energetic, and very patient; I've learned quite a bit in her class.

[LikeFrostOnRoads]

How do you take just one class at the universities? All I see at the unis are 3+ hour a day, 5 days a week schedules. That sounds enticing, but I've got a job to hold down.

I was thinking it would be interesting to come back after my contract ends as a student, but I would need to work part-time and I don't know if that's possible on a student visa.

[furtakk]

Cheers for the info. After some more research and having a Korean friend do some calling I think I'm settled on Keimyung. Daegu and Yeungnam are just way too far for me and Kyungpook doesn't sound like a good sell.

I don't know if it's possible to just take one class, but I'm doing the 9-1 M-F intensive program. I don't start work until 2-3 so it is possible. Although I imagine it will be a huge drag after awhile, but I think it will be worth it in the end.

[coralreefer_1]

I say congratulations on taking the time and spending the money to learn Korean. I also think of the two unis you mentioned, you are choosing the better one for your studies.

Enjoy the classes. It will certainly improve your overall Korean experience.