Bahrom International Program at Seoul Women's University (SWU)

The Bahrom International Program (BIP) began in the summer of 1999 to provide students a unique opportunity to achieve a better understanding of the various aspects of Korean culture. By experiencing Korean lifestyle through this four-week intensive program in English, participants will learn about the Korean lifestyle, historical and religious background, the economical struggles, political tension with North Korea, city streets, art, and the Korean language.

The BIP program will introduce Korean culture not only through lectures and discussion sessions, but also by hands-on cultural experiences during which students will dress like traditional Koreans, learn Korean manners, make their own Korean-style pottery, play traditional instruments and make Korean food. Excursions to such sites as Korea's capital during the Shilla dynasty and the present border with the North will be accompanied by lectures explaining their historical significance. Participants will also experience a constant interaction of cultures by mixing with a student group of half international students and half Seoul Women's University students.

(Adapted from Seoul Women's University brochure)

Seoul

Seoul has a population exceeding eight million. It is a city of incredible contrasts and arguably one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Seoul has risen from the dust and ashes of the Korean War, when it was largely destroyed, to become a modern metropolis of high-rise buildings, 12-lane boulevards, and non-stop traffic. Yet right beside this pulsating extravaganza of concrete, steel, and glass are centuries-old royal palaces, temples, pagodas, and imposing stone gateways set in huge traditional gardens far removed from the bustle of the rest of the city. It's here that you can experience the timeless atmosphere that endows this city with its unique character. This same feeling permeates the narrow alleys and back streets below the skyscrapers and the few traditional areas of the city that have escaped the destruction of the war.

(Adapted from: Korea: a Travel Survival Kit p.71)

For those interested in Korean culture and history, Seoul offers museums, palaces, walls, and gates, as well as documents, libraries, and living memories. The Yi Dynasty capital is alive in the Kyongbok Palace, the Toksu Palace, the Changgyong Palace, the National Museum, the Folklore Museum, the university museums, and the Buddhist temples just outside the city walls. For modern Korean culture, the city teems with art galleries, music and drama festivals, and centers like the Sejong Cultural Center.

Downtown Seoul is the center of government, with ministries and government offices all a short trip from Yonsei. It is also the center of industry, with the headquarters of major corporations like Hyundai, Daewoo, Samsung, Goldstar, and SunKyung. The close relationship of business and government in Korea can be seen first-hand, as can the highly successful Korean style of business management.

Academic offerings

Participants will receive 3 semester-hour credits. Mostly the grading will be based on one's lecture participation (attendance), 4 quizzes, an essay, a group presentation, and a five-page term paper. Official transcripts will be sent to ISU after completion of the program.

Academic calendar

The program dates for Summer 2008 program are June 29 to July 25.

Exchange program

ISU students will be matched with a Korean partner from SWU, who also participates in the entire program. These students will participate in an exchange at ISU in the year following the program.

Accomodation

Students live in newly built residential complexes on campus with Korean students and will be invited to their Korean partner's home for a homestay weekend.

Program application and selection

Applicants must be full-time students at ISU, have completed one year of study at ISU prior to the four weeks abroad, have received departmental approval for participation. The application deadline is March 1.

Download the ISU application form (.doc).

Please complete the ISU program application and submit it to:
Study Abroad Center
3224 Memorial Union
Ames, IA 50011-1133
(515) 294-6792
studyabroad@iastate.edu

For more information

Please contact:

Julie Yankey
Study Abroad Center
3224 Memorial Union
Ames, IA 50011-1133
(515) 294-6792
jyankey@iastate.edu