NaomiAsian

At 20 years old, I never imagined that my academic journey would take me so far from home. Originally from Seoul, I now find myself in Belgrade, Serbia, studying International Relations. It’s been quite an adventure—one filled with new experiences, moments of excitement, and sometimes a bit of homesickness. Balancing my studies with the discovery of a completely new culture has been both challenging and rewarding. 

When I first arrived, the biggest challenge was the language barrier. In Belgrade, while many people speak English, Serbian is the official language, and I quickly realized that I needed to learn at least a few basic phrases to survive day-to-day life. Asking for directions, ordering food, or simply greeting someone required me to pick up the language fast. Although it was hard at first, I’m proud to say that I’ve made significant progress, and it’s been so rewarding to communicate better with locals and truly connect with them.

Cultural differences have been another fascinating aspect of my time here. Back in Korea, life is fast-paced, and there's always pressure to succeed academically. But in Serbia, things feel much more laid-back. There’s a greater focus on family, tradition, and enjoying life. I’ve had the chance to experience this firsthand, as many of my Serbian friends have invited me to family gatherings and local festivals. I’ve learned so much about Serbian culture—like their love for traditional foods such as ćevapi, and the joy they find in dancing in circles during celebrations. At first, I missed my family and the busy life of Seoul, but now I feel deeply grateful for the kindness and warmth of the people I’ve met here.

My academic life is thriving as well. Studying International Relations in Serbia has given me a fresh perspective on global issues. The discussions in class are dynamic, and I get to share my thoughts and experiences from Korea, while also learning from my classmates from all over the world. The Serbian education system is different from what I’m used to, but it has been intellectually stimulating, and my professors are supportive. I particularly enjoy the debates we have on various international topics, which help broaden my understanding of global politics.

When I’m not studying, I love exploring Belgrade. The mix of old and new in the city, the lively café culture, and the beautiful architecture constantly inspire me. It’s different from Seoul, but I’ve grown to appreciate its charm. While I miss home, I’ve come to see Belgrade as a second home. My journey here has been a transformative one, and it’s helped me grow as both a person and a student. I’ve learned so much not only about Serbia but about the diversity of the world, and I’m grateful for every moment of it.