Humans of Yonsei

[Student Interview] Finding Home Abroad, Designing a New Chapter at Yonsei February 08, 2024

Underwood International College(UIC) CDM&IID Student Rania from Kingdom of Morocco

Name: Rania Rbib
Nationality: Kingdom of Morocco
College: Underwood International College (UIC)
Major: Culture & Design Management (CDM) Information & Interaction Design (IID) (entering class of ’21.5)

Originally from Morocco, I spent my entire life there before embarking on the journey to South Korea for my college education. South Korea was my #1 option for universities during the application process because of its growing design industry. I felt that spending so much time in this setting would be very advantageous for my studies and future career.

Moving to Korea was a significant struggle, particularly for my parents, who were naturally anxious about me leaving home at the age of 17, but the experience has proven worthwhile. Unlike what I had expected, living here hasn't been as hard to adjust to, especially for a student like me.

Yonsei University's well-known diverse foreign student community had a major role in my decision to attend; it was just what I was looking for in a college. Furthermore, Yonsei's international reputation gave me confidence that the academic atmosphere would support my objectives.

As for the reason why, I chose CDM and IID as majors, I've always had a strong desire to work in design, so choosing my degree at Yonsei was an obvious decision. My selection was further reinforced by UIC's provision of two design-related majors, and I'm excited to learn more and contribute to this dynamic design environment.

The hardest thing I had to do when I moved to South Korea was to leave my home at the age of 17. Although moving to a new nation required a lot of adjustment, I was surprised by how easy the transfer went. There were cultural differences, particularly concerning food and diet, but I chose to embrace them actively rather than feel uncomfortable with them.

I overcame all obstacles by actively participating in campus life, forming relationships with other students who are also going through the same thing, and appreciating the diversity of the campus community. Participating in group projects and asking peers or professors for assistance when necessary were critical to effective adaption.

Yonsei's multinational environment made navigating the campus easy, and the classes were engaging. Since many of the courses were taught in English, there were not many language obstacles. Although my English wasn't the best at the beginning, it noticeably improved over time. This inclusive approach helped me adapt to university life without major difficulties.

Yonsei University's campus life has been both thrilling and fulfilling. Experiencing South Korean culture with friends, participating in school events, and going to AKARAKA twice were all pleasant experiences. I believe that what distinguishes Yonsei is the amazing university spirit, particularly during cheering events or AKARAKA.

Furthermore, participating in student clubs also served to improve my overall Yonsei experience. I've been a member of the DFK Omelet Club since freshman year, and it's allowed me to meet a lot of friends and work on design projects to help improve my portfolio.

In the future, I want to work in branding for the beauty and fashion industries. I believe Yonsei has prepared and shaped me to be a competent designer, though this depends on available opportunities. Before that, I'd have to do internships to figure out where I fit best, but Yonsei has undoubtedly helped me become qualified for the profession and career path I want to pursue.

When promoting Yonsei to foreign friends, I would emphasize its welcoming environment, quality academic programs, and opportunities to participate in a global community. Last but not least, if I had one piece of advice for foreign students, it would be to take their studies seriously and create connections at Yonsei. You will have the opportunity to meet many individuals who share your interests. However, do not overstress yourself and still, try to enjoy your student life in Korea as much as possible.

Interview by student reporter Jo Beomsu

* Yonsei University's Underwood International College (UIC) is a highly selective, English-language, four-year liberal arts institution, which combines the intimate, elite learning environment of an American-style liberal arts college with the faculty and resources of Korea's top private research university. UIC students choose from an extensive list of classes conducted entirely in English and taught by a distinguished group of international and Korean scholars. With a student body drawn from around the world, UIC focuses on ensuring that its outstanding students have the intellectual foundation to become exceptional leaders capable of changing the world for the better.

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