By Honorary Reporter Menna Allah Muhammad from Egypt

Photos= Menna Allah Muhammad

"UHSN (Study Abroad Girl)" was a Korean reality show that aired last year on Mnet. Ten non-Korean girls from abroad got the chance to experience what being a K-pop idol is like. After the show, they had the opportunity to make their debuts before returning to their respective home countries.

Last year on July 4, the cast released the digital single "UHSN" and its music video followed on July 12. The following interview is with Nada, an Egyptian who appeared on the show.

Q: Please introduce yourself.

Hi, I'm Nada but you can call me Noury. I'm 20 years old, a business major and the only Arab and Egyptian on the show.

Q: How did you get started in dance?

In elementary school, I was obsessed with Indian movies, especially how the singing and dancing on them and the vibes they created. I used to imitate the dance moves until I learned them. In middle school, I asked our music teacher to do a show. She initially didn't really listen to me but I kept asking her until she said "OK, show me what you got." When I showed her my dancing, she liked it a lot and made me do it, and then everyone in school knew about me. I won first place in a contest and this made me feel special and unique. I have since continued dancing.

Q: So how did you end up in K-pop?

When I was in high school, I started learning more about hip-hop and this led me to K-pop and K-dramas. So here I am today.

Q: How did you learn about and apply to enter "UHSN?"

I saw the Mnet ad for it at the Korean Cultural Center in Egypt just before the deadline, and felt like I couldn't let this chance go. So I prepared what was required and waited until I got a call requesting an online audition. It happened as we communicated more than once. The process to get all the paperwork done was long but so worth it.

Q: Your first task was to split into teams and produce a dance video. How was that for you?

We started by listing the songs we could use and narrowing them down. We ultimately decided on Twice's "Dance the Night Away," and we only had one day to put it together. But it was so fun at the end and it made us all so happy to see many idols react to this and nod in approval.

Q: You're a big fan of the K-pop boy band Monsta X. Tell us about your meeting with the group and the concert.

We were told that we'd be going to their concert, so I was so excited. I've been a member of the group's fan club for two years, and all the way, I was wondering if we really would get the chance to meet them. My prayers were answered. We stayed at this waiting area and then turned around and there they were. We talked to them, and to be honest, meeting your favorite artist gives you a very good feeling. I mentioned to the group about my friend back in Egypt who loves Monsta X. After that, the group's concert started and I was singing and dancing the whole time. It was such a fun day.

Q: How was everything about your "UHSN" experience, from the song and video ideas to the recording, dance, styling and finally shooting?

I think the best way I'd describe it is an overwhelmingly good experience, though it was a tiring process. When doing something you love and seeing the end result and how people react to it, it was rewarding for me. Let's just say I felt like a real star, and my favorite part was doing stuff at night, from the outfits to the atmosphere and the whole vibe of it, which gave me such a good feeling.

Q: Your audition featured both singing and dancing, and many idols were impressed by your dancing. How did this change your mindset?

I was both scared and excited but needed this to grow as a dancer and work on the things I'm lacking in. So I went for it and it boosted my confidence to a whole other level, and having people whom you look up to tell you how good you are and give advice on growing was the best.

Q: Are you considering opening your own YouTube channel?

Actually, I was advised there to make my own channel, but I think I need to work on stuff before doing so. I need to prepare really good content so I'm practicing a lot, but my job takes up a big part of my time.

Q: Finally, how would you summarize this experience?

I initially felt that it was nearly impossible (to appear on "UHSN") but with a little faith, my dream came true. I prayed and practiced a lot for this, and it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me. I couldn't be happier.

chaey0726@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean