A Semester Seoul, South Korea in Photos

by: Rachel Halstead, class of 25'

My name is Rachel Halstead and I studied abroad at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea during the spring semester of 2025. In between classes I was able to capture my experience in photos.

Photo Descriptions:

1- This is a photo of me and my friend Soomi who was an exchange student at RMC in Fall 2023. On my first day of class, we met for the first time since she left RMC. After experiencing many new faces all around campus, having an old friend around was the best way to end the day.

2- On almost every corner, it is hard not to notice claw machines. People of all ages come to them and try their luck to win prizes. I came back with about 15 prizes. 

3- Convenience stores are super big in South Korea. There are other popular brands, but one people will recognize is 7/11. These are not the same as the ones back home, and trying all the different snacks made for good memories. 

4- South Korea may be known for its futuristic accomplishments, but they still hold a strong connection to their past. In Seoul, there are 5 grand palaces where people can step into the past and learn about the great history of the country. The photo represents the representation of the past and present. 

5- Me and Buzz! You may recognize this photo from my Study Abroad Ambassador highlight.

6-  When the sun goes down, the city lights up. Motorbikes, cars, and buses are always traveling at night. And with luck and good timing, the light beams from cars and buses help create one of my proudest photos I've ever taken. 

7- Baseball is one of the languages me and Koreans could mutually understand. Though the Korean Baseball Organization has only 8 teams, the game itself is one of the most popular in the country. Fans are super passionate and really cheer on their team. Compared to MLB games, Korea has the best fan experience for baseball fans. 

8- Of all the new foods I've tried here, this was my favorite in many ways. This is yukhoe nakji tangtangi or simply live octopus raw beef. It is completely safe to eat and it tasted more of soy sauce and sesame oil. 

9- The photo is not the most stunning, but it is at a study cafe close to the Han river. The cafe culture is insane here, and this spot was the quiet space where several students studying for their midterms. Of all my friends descending down the stairs, I was the only one who slipped and fell hard in the quiet space. 

If I had any advice for students thinking about going abroad I would say, Don't be afraid to take the next big step. If I listened to my head, I would not have had the best experience in my life. Take chances even if you are unsure, because uncertainty could lead to the best memories!-- Rachel

Want to see more of Rachel's photos from her time abroad? Follow her on Instagram @_rachelhphotography