KCC and Me

The story of KCC and me is a relatively short one, because it is a new one.  I have been interested in just about everything Korean for the past four years now, but have never had the opportunity to develop this passion formally in any way.  When thinking about my plans for this summer, I decided that I needed to create my own opportunity and as I began to look for ways to do this, I found KCC.  The first day I came in to talk with Toni about an internship, I instantly knew that I was going to love everything about the Center, from the projects I’d be helping out with to the people with whom I would have to opportunity to work.  I have only come in five days so far this summer, but everyday has been interesting and has offered something new. Not only am I developing professional skills, but I am also learning about Korean history and culture, and will start taking language classes as the summer progresses. 

People always ask me, a little skeptically, “So…what got you interested in Korean culture” and I always tell them that it started when I met three of my friends, all of whom are Korean.  It started out slowly, with music and television shows, but has slowly progressed to include the language, history, and culture.  But still, even four years later, what it comes down to is the people.  Although I may get surprised looks when people come in and see me in Toni’s office, or working with Dr. Hahm in the library, everyone has always welcomed me and encouraged my interest in their culture.  From the start, I felt a great sense of community at the Center, and though I am not Korean, everyone at the Center has done their best to help me feel a part of that community.  It is the people here that will keep me coming back to the Center and will help to further my passion and knowledge of Korea.  Although I will be graduating from college next year and hope to spend a year or two in Korea afterwards, that does not in any way mean that my story with KCC will end.  I know that my experience here this summer is one that will stay with me for the rest of my life, and I hope that the Center and the people here will continue to be a part of my story.