Conclusion: The Journey That Changed Everything

When I set out on this journey, I had no idea just how much it would change me. I thought I was going to learn about culture, education, maybe practice a little language — but what I didn’t expect was how much I would learn about myself. I grew not just as a student, but as a person.

Yes, huge aspects of my academic and professional life have shifted because of this trip. I changed the subject of my thesis. I changed the list of schools I’ll be applying to for my PhD. But more than that, I gained a clearer understanding of what I want out of life — and out of myself.

Now, when I sit at home watching a K-drama or scrolling past photos of South Korea, I feel a strange kind of homesickness. I can say, I’ve been there. I’ve done that. I’ve eaten that. I understand the cultural context behind the scenes and the symbols. But there’s also a sense of ennui— of longing. I carry all this experience, all this knowledge, and I wonder:
Will anyone read this?
Will it inspire someone else to take a leap like I did?

If you’ve made it this far — if you’ve followed me through every train ride, tearful goodbye, and cup of iced Americano — let me say this: If you ever have the chance to spend a month in South Korea, take it.
It was one of the best months of my life.

I came home with a sense of accomplishment and a quiet kind of pride. I was part of something that, in some small way, might help others. And I feel that I’ve been given the gift of perspective — one that I now have the responsibility and the joy of sharing. So if you’re reading this now and you have the chance to study or travel abroad — do it. If you're curious about the world, follow that curiosity.

Take the risk. Book the ticket.
Let the experience change you.

This was the trip of a lifetime — and I truly hope it’s only the first of many Fieldnotes I’ll get to share with you.