By Korea.net Honorary Reporter Agnes M. Angco from the Philippines
Photos = Agnes M. Angco

Korea is a popular destination for overseas visitors not just because of its many tourist attractions, but also the amazing opportunities it offers in careers or education. Through a variety of platforms, the country offers scholarships through the government or its universities.

In 2015, 15 students from Cordova, a municipality in the Philippine province of Cebu, were given the opportunity to study at Daejin University in Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do Province. They received three-month scholarships to study there under an agreement between the university and the local government unit of the Municipality of Cordova headed by Mayor Mary Therese Sitoy-Cho. The president of the Cebu Korean Association, Charlie Cho Bong-hwan, also helped.

Through the scholarship program, the 15 students got to explore and experience Korea and learn the Korean language. The all-expense paid program also gave the participants a monthly stipend from sponsors in addition to accommodation and meals.

During their three-month stay, they learned Korean writing, reading, speaking and listening. In addition, a fellowship program had each Filipino grouped with three to four Koreans to learn about each other's country. The visiting students also went to a number of attractions in Korea, ate Korean food and met new people.

The 15 Cordova students say they got so much from the program that they want to go to Korea again. Though their experience ended four years ago, they say it remains fresh in their minds as if it was yesterday. They gained many memories, built long-lasting friendships and reassessed their visions for life.

As a requirement for their final exam, the 15 Cordova scholars performed the Korean song "Dream High" in front of other international students and Korean professors.

wisdom117@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. This group has members from all around the world who share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.