International agreements with 203 universities
Izmir University of Economics (IUE), who has signed international agreements with 203 universities with the aim of enhancing the educational opportunities offered to its students, created career opportunities for them in the Far East. In addition to Japan and China, IUE also cooperated with Hallym University, one of the best educational institutions in South Korea, for student exchange. This initiative has proven successful for IEU.
Aybüke Cihan, a 2023 graduate of IUE's Department of English Translation and Interpretation, was accepted into Korea University for a master's program in the field of ‘English Linguistics’ after studying at Hallym University. Cihan's high GPA and success in both English and Korean languages set her apart, enabling her to achieve her international aspirations. Onur Ege Türksal, a third-year student in the same department, also seized the opportunity to study in South Korea, broadening his cultural understanding, improving his language skills, and expanding his network.
I LOVE THE CULTURE AND PEOPLE OF FAR EAST
Expressing her excitement about going to South Korea in March, Aybüke said, “Pursuing a master's degree was always my goal. However, when I started my education at Izmir University of Economics, I never thought that I would go to South Korea one day. The collaboration between IUE and Hallym University unexpectedly altered my career goal, my life. I Since I was a little girl, I was interested in the Far East culture, I was curious about the region, so I decided to go to South Korea with the student exchange program and I applied.”
I CAN LIVE IN SOUTH KOREA
Cihan continued: “After being accepted, I spent four months in South Korea and fell in love with the country. I found the people's approach and culture very relatable. I had a very enjoyable period, and I not only already had a strong command of English but also advanced my Korean language skills significantly. With these achievements, I decided to pursue my master's degree at Korea University. My studies so far, my GPA, my level in English and Korean were examined in detail. Finally, I was accepted for my master's degree. I don't know what the future holds, but I might continue my life in South Korea.” Aybüke also hosted her friend Seokhwan Jeong, who was very curious about Turkey. Aybüke showed Jeong around IUE and the historical points of Izmir, adding that there is a great interest and love for our country in South Korea.
IT WAS AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
Onur Ege Türksal, a third-year student at IUE Department of English Translation and Interpretation, was among the young people who went to Hallym University in South Korea with the student exchange program. Stating that he had a very good experience in Souht Korea, Türksal said, “I also stayed in South Korea for about four months. Hallym University hosts many young people from different countries. I met and chatted with them extensively, and I had the chance to explore South Korea. It was an unforgettable period for me in every way.”