Well, first off, Happy New Year's Eve. Only a few hours here until New Year's! In Korea, all the people are turning a year older tonight because of their year systems, etc. Sooo I'll be 23 tonight I guess...
So a few days ago I was excited about Beijing. As it seems to be just my luck, things are not going right. Greg, Liz, and I went yesterday to turn in our visa application and have to pick it up next week. We're supposed to leave Feb. 2 really early in the morning and come back Sunday... but as seems to be a pattern at our branch when deciding days off for holidays, they told us today we now have to come in Feb 2 from 10-4, when previously we were told we will have the whole day off. So now we're up a creek with few options other than costing way more money. We can either cancel the trip and be forced to pay for canceling, or try to see if there's a way at all to push back the flight.
They could rearrange schedules a bit to combine classes and all that, but our branch manager doesn't want to do that because he thinks lots of kids are going to come that day and there'll be too many... but really, it's probably unlikely, however he doesn't want to risk it. He was joking we'd be fired, buttttt based on the past week I don't think he was joking. And since it's a holiday, the airline was not open this afternoon, or probably this weekend, so we'll have to get it situated Monday or later, risking more wasted money. Ahhhh. Please pray we can find some kind of solution, quickly and cheaply. *sigh*
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
... or a dirty city snow wonderland...
Monday night it snowed so I woke up to a few inches of snow. And as it seems to be a pattern, I promptly slipped on my apartment steps. hahaha I believe a trip (no pun intended) to a shoe store is in my future for better tractioned boots.
Besides trying not to die on my way to work, it's been an eventful week and it's only Wednesday. We found out we have Feb 2-6 off for the Lunar New Year (aka Chinese New Year). Since this will be our only chance to travel, about 7 of us were looking for somewhere to go. Only problem, there were very few available flights BACK to Korea from Japan or Hong Kong, or basically any Asian country. After a failed visit to a travel agency in Itaewon, we searched for things ourself and found a great deal - round trip flight to Beijing plus 4 nights at a hotel within walking distance of the Forbidden City for roughly $600. Now the joke is that I have to train myself to not fall for when we go to the Great Wall. Although not all 7 of us are going (only 3), I cannot wait!!!!! Never in my life did I think I'd have these opportunities to not only live in another country, but also to travel to some famous historic places around the world. The history teacher in me is lovin' it. So very grateful for everything I've been given.
Today I finally made my way to a better, English-speaking dentist. My teeth have been sandblasted clean. Dentist tools have some of the worst sounds in the world. And fortunately, no cavities!!!! Good to know I'm just paranoid.
Other event worth sharing for a laugh occurred, where else, but the classroom. Last night I had my Par Reading class, which is a mix of higher elementary grades and middle school. As one can expect, 2 of the older middle school boys are a handful. They're good friends, but like to mess with one another. They had opened the window since they thought the room was hot (I never understand why they don't just take off their jackets...), and near the end of class one boy took his friend's pencil case and threw it out the window. I saw it happen as it was going out the window so I don't know if it was an accident, or on purpose (most likely purpose ha). All I could do was drop my jaw and mentally cuss. In retailiation, the other boy quickly grabbed his friend's pencil case and dropped THAT one out the window. Our classes are on the 4th floor of an office building, so who knows where they dropped. Obviously they wanted to leave class early and get them, but I purposely drew class out as long as I could. So next class, they're sitting closer to me, away from one another, and no where near that damn window.
Gotta love middle schoolers.
Monday night it snowed so I woke up to a few inches of snow. And as it seems to be a pattern, I promptly slipped on my apartment steps. hahaha I believe a trip (no pun intended) to a shoe store is in my future for better tractioned boots.
Besides trying not to die on my way to work, it's been an eventful week and it's only Wednesday. We found out we have Feb 2-6 off for the Lunar New Year (aka Chinese New Year). Since this will be our only chance to travel, about 7 of us were looking for somewhere to go. Only problem, there were very few available flights BACK to Korea from Japan or Hong Kong, or basically any Asian country. After a failed visit to a travel agency in Itaewon, we searched for things ourself and found a great deal - round trip flight to Beijing plus 4 nights at a hotel within walking distance of the Forbidden City for roughly $600. Now the joke is that I have to train myself to not fall for when we go to the Great Wall. Although not all 7 of us are going (only 3), I cannot wait!!!!! Never in my life did I think I'd have these opportunities to not only live in another country, but also to travel to some famous historic places around the world. The history teacher in me is lovin' it. So very grateful for everything I've been given.
Today I finally made my way to a better, English-speaking dentist. My teeth have been sandblasted clean. Dentist tools have some of the worst sounds in the world. And fortunately, no cavities!!!! Good to know I'm just paranoid.
Other event worth sharing for a laugh occurred, where else, but the classroom. Last night I had my Par Reading class, which is a mix of higher elementary grades and middle school. As one can expect, 2 of the older middle school boys are a handful. They're good friends, but like to mess with one another. They had opened the window since they thought the room was hot (I never understand why they don't just take off their jackets...), and near the end of class one boy took his friend's pencil case and threw it out the window. I saw it happen as it was going out the window so I don't know if it was an accident, or on purpose (most likely purpose ha). All I could do was drop my jaw and mentally cuss. In retailiation, the other boy quickly grabbed his friend's pencil case and dropped THAT one out the window. Our classes are on the 4th floor of an office building, so who knows where they dropped. Obviously they wanted to leave class early and get them, but I purposely drew class out as long as I could. So next class, they're sitting closer to me, away from one another, and no where near that damn window.
Gotta love middle schoolers.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas!
For real now. It's Christmas Day for both sides of the world.
Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday with family and friends. I enjoyed seeing my fam on Skype this morning. :)
A little good Coldplay Christmas cheer...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1rYmzQ8C9Q
Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday with family and friends. I enjoyed seeing my fam on Skype this morning. :)
A little good Coldplay Christmas cheer...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1rYmzQ8C9Q
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Happy Korean Christmas Eve!
Let the couples holiday festivities begin. I don't even know what that means. Most likely lots of matching outfits.
We have to come into work at 2pm so we can finally open our Secret Santa gifts. Ha Most of us thought the plan was to do so at our branch Christmas dinner, but that didn't happen. Sucks for the people who lugged glasses of wine around town.
No exciting plans, 'cept to eat some American brunch and hang out with co-workers. Jen wants to do a KFC feast and possibly Christmas movies. hahaha
This week I'll have racked up 30 hours at work. One of my coworkers is out of town so my Monday night class was combined to another teacher's class since I only have 3 students, and I taught the vacationing teacher's class. I taught his other class tonight as well, sacrificing what should've been my half day. Though it turns out it's a good thing I did so because due to the rising tuition and decrease in enrollment (who knows why they thought raising tuition was a good idea), my Monday/Friday night class is being cut and permanently combined with the other, so I'll be down to 21 hours, although I will teach a workshop starting next week to attempt to make up for it.
Bummer since I love those kids, but the good news is I'll still be paid for those hours since it was in my contract. Or, so they say. We'll see come next paycheck. I'm not the only one losing classes because of the current enrollment trend, so I suppose I shouldn't feel as badly. Part of me is excited to have half days on Fridays for the rest of this term. But, I'm beginning to realize more about the business aspect of this company due to this and other recent decisions because of the lack of students.
Slight downer to the holiday. But on a happier note, I can't believe how many friends are getting engaged. Congrats to all of you who are!!! So exciting.
We have to come into work at 2pm so we can finally open our Secret Santa gifts. Ha Most of us thought the plan was to do so at our branch Christmas dinner, but that didn't happen. Sucks for the people who lugged glasses of wine around town.
No exciting plans, 'cept to eat some American brunch and hang out with co-workers. Jen wants to do a KFC feast and possibly Christmas movies. hahaha
This week I'll have racked up 30 hours at work. One of my coworkers is out of town so my Monday night class was combined to another teacher's class since I only have 3 students, and I taught the vacationing teacher's class. I taught his other class tonight as well, sacrificing what should've been my half day. Though it turns out it's a good thing I did so because due to the rising tuition and decrease in enrollment (who knows why they thought raising tuition was a good idea), my Monday/Friday night class is being cut and permanently combined with the other, so I'll be down to 21 hours, although I will teach a workshop starting next week to attempt to make up for it.
Bummer since I love those kids, but the good news is I'll still be paid for those hours since it was in my contract. Or, so they say. We'll see come next paycheck. I'm not the only one losing classes because of the current enrollment trend, so I suppose I shouldn't feel as badly. Part of me is excited to have half days on Fridays for the rest of this term. But, I'm beginning to realize more about the business aspect of this company due to this and other recent decisions because of the lack of students.
Slight downer to the holiday. But on a happier note, I can't believe how many friends are getting engaged. Congrats to all of you who are!!! So exciting.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Rain Rain Go Away?
No. How about Cold Cold Go AWAY!!!!!
It is absolutely frigid. My life in warm climates almost can't handle this. Though apparently it's been snowing in Georgia... ? It's been in about the 20s for the past few days. Last week we had some snow flurries, and it wouldn't surprise me if we get more soon.
Tomorrow I FINALLY get to see Harry Potter at midnight... a month after the US. Also going to the Namdaemun flea market in the morning to get my Secret Santa gift (nooo idea what to get him) and find something for my mom so I can mail it ASAP. Sorry, Mom!! Hopefully I can find what I'm looking for. :)
Other than that, life's the same, just work, trying not to freeze, and paying bills... or trying to. Someone accidentally took my gas bill yesterday while I was at work, sooo not sure what's gonna happen there. I've been told it'll cycle over if not paid. Or maybe that person will pay mine! I think it was pretty cheap, like 4000 won (less than $4).
It is absolutely frigid. My life in warm climates almost can't handle this. Though apparently it's been snowing in Georgia... ? It's been in about the 20s for the past few days. Last week we had some snow flurries, and it wouldn't surprise me if we get more soon.
Tomorrow I FINALLY get to see Harry Potter at midnight... a month after the US. Also going to the Namdaemun flea market in the morning to get my Secret Santa gift (nooo idea what to get him) and find something for my mom so I can mail it ASAP. Sorry, Mom!! Hopefully I can find what I'm looking for. :)
Other than that, life's the same, just work, trying not to freeze, and paying bills... or trying to. Someone accidentally took my gas bill yesterday while I was at work, sooo not sure what's gonna happen there. I've been told it'll cycle over if not paid. Or maybe that person will pay mine! I think it was pretty cheap, like 4000 won (less than $4).
Sunday, December 12, 2010
YG Family Concert
Apologies for not updating. The site was down for whatever reason and I've been busy with the new term.
Winter term started November 30 and we got two new guys to replace 2 teachers who left as their contract was up. I'm teaching some higher level classes, which I'm really enjoying. They've been here longer so classroom management is less of an issue, but more importantly we can have better discussions as a result of the higher-level questions and topics.
Last weekend I went with a friend from training to see the YG Family Concert, which basically had several bands from the record label YG. Now I've heard of K-Pop, and it's pretty much hard to miss when walking down the street past cellphone stores, but man oh man was it an epic experience. Think of it like an NSYNC or BSB concert, but on crack and 10x less cheesy. These bands are hardcore, legit, and not as pop-y as I'd imagine. Cameras weren't allowed, but I managed to get a short video before seeing the sign for 'No cameras'.
here are some videos as well if you're so inclined to discover your Korean brethren's jams. This is hardly uncovering the iceberg of songs, but a few that I particularly like:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDBOGihYl10&feature=channel
Go! - Big Bang
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIRW_elc-rY&feature=related
Lollipop - Big Bang and 2NE1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MgAxMO1KD0&NR=1
I Don't Care - 2NE1
My favorite guy from Big Bang is the deep-voiced rapper, TOP. You'll know who he is when you watch. He's got a unique voice.
This weekend I got to see 2 movies: The Tourist with Johnny Depp and the new Chronicles of Narnia. We may not get Harry Potter before the US, but we got these 2. For whatever reason Koreans loveeee Angelina Jolie. She's the actor my students will mention first when asking about the US. The movie was slightly predictable, but still enjoyable. Luckily I went with my coworker who knows some French so she translated for us as the subtitles were in Korean, not English. When the characters spoke Italian we had to use context clues. haha But whenever Johnny spoke Spanish I knew exactly what he was saying. Go me.
Narnia was fantastic!!!! We went last minute, and had to sit in the front row... for a 3D movie. Last time I sat front row for a movie was Transformers 2 and I thought I was gonna get sick. haha Fortunately that was not the case for this movie. They gave us foot rests! hahaha It was like sitting at home watching a giant screen with 3D glasses on. Highly recommend the movie. I feel like it'll do better overseas than domestically since not as many people are familiar with this book. I've read it and they stuck pretty close to it.
Winter term started November 30 and we got two new guys to replace 2 teachers who left as their contract was up. I'm teaching some higher level classes, which I'm really enjoying. They've been here longer so classroom management is less of an issue, but more importantly we can have better discussions as a result of the higher-level questions and topics.
Last weekend I went with a friend from training to see the YG Family Concert, which basically had several bands from the record label YG. Now I've heard of K-Pop, and it's pretty much hard to miss when walking down the street past cellphone stores, but man oh man was it an epic experience. Think of it like an NSYNC or BSB concert, but on crack and 10x less cheesy. These bands are hardcore, legit, and not as pop-y as I'd imagine. Cameras weren't allowed, but I managed to get a short video before seeing the sign for 'No cameras'.
here are some videos as well if you're so inclined to discover your Korean brethren's jams. This is hardly uncovering the iceberg of songs, but a few that I particularly like:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDBOGihYl10&feature=channel
Go! - Big Bang
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIRW_elc-rY&feature=related
Lollipop - Big Bang and 2NE1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MgAxMO1KD0&NR=1
I Don't Care - 2NE1
My favorite guy from Big Bang is the deep-voiced rapper, TOP. You'll know who he is when you watch. He's got a unique voice.
This weekend I got to see 2 movies: The Tourist with Johnny Depp and the new Chronicles of Narnia. We may not get Harry Potter before the US, but we got these 2. For whatever reason Koreans loveeee Angelina Jolie. She's the actor my students will mention first when asking about the US. The movie was slightly predictable, but still enjoyable. Luckily I went with my coworker who knows some French so she translated for us as the subtitles were in Korean, not English. When the characters spoke Italian we had to use context clues. haha But whenever Johnny spoke Spanish I knew exactly what he was saying. Go me.
Narnia was fantastic!!!! We went last minute, and had to sit in the front row... for a 3D movie. Last time I sat front row for a movie was Transformers 2 and I thought I was gonna get sick. haha Fortunately that was not the case for this movie. They gave us foot rests! hahaha It was like sitting at home watching a giant screen with 3D glasses on. Highly recommend the movie. I feel like it'll do better overseas than domestically since not as many people are familiar with this book. I've read it and they stuck pretty close to it.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Let it Snow, Let it Snow!
American "Thanksgiving" dinner was delicious. Angela was smart and looked online beforehand at the menu, so we were able to order a set deal for 17,000 won each: appetizer, main course, dessert, and drink. Mashed Potatoes and/or Potato Soup were not one of the appetizers, but French fries came with my ribs so all is right in the world.
After dinner, Angela and I looked around COEX for a little while (giant mall connected to Seoul World Trade Center), and when we came out we were surprised to find snow!! At first we couldn't tell if it was real or fake until we walked further outside and discovered it was real. I quickly snapped a photo on my phone. Last winter had some bad snow storms, hopefully it will not be the same this winter, but a little snow would be fun!!
After dinner, Angela and I looked around COEX for a little while (giant mall connected to Seoul World Trade Center), and when we came out we were surprised to find snow!! At first we couldn't tell if it was real or fake until we walked further outside and discovered it was real. I quickly snapped a photo on my phone. Last winter had some bad snow storms, hopefully it will not be the same this winter, but a little snow would be fun!!
Friday, November 26, 2010
Lets Be American!
That's the motto for Sunday. Due to work schedules and utter failure at finding somewhere to eat, Sean, our friends / coworkers, and I are going to meet at TGI Friday's Sunday for an American meal since that's the closest we can get... and we know they'll have potatoes, which we both really wanted. Ha
This weekend promises to be mighty chilly, something I don't look forward to, but also don't mind now that I've discovered how to properly maneuver my heating floors. Success!!
Speaking of chilly, lots to think about as well in the North Korea - South Korea tension. From this Sunday - Wednesday, South Korea and the US naval fleet USS George Washington are apparently conducting drills, according to various articles I've read and conversations I've heard from students. This concerns me because the North has threatened further action should this take place. I want to keep telling myself nothing will happen; the North is only trying to inflate its chest and appear more powerful than they are, but there is reason to be worried about them. Clearly they have thrown caution to the wind and done as they pleased despite countries' reactions. They can be unpredictable. Here's hoping things can be settled in some way less violent.
This weekend promises to be mighty chilly, something I don't look forward to, but also don't mind now that I've discovered how to properly maneuver my heating floors. Success!!
Speaking of chilly, lots to think about as well in the North Korea - South Korea tension. From this Sunday - Wednesday, South Korea and the US naval fleet USS George Washington are apparently conducting drills, according to various articles I've read and conversations I've heard from students. This concerns me because the North has threatened further action should this take place. I want to keep telling myself nothing will happen; the North is only trying to inflate its chest and appear more powerful than they are, but there is reason to be worried about them. Clearly they have thrown caution to the wind and done as they pleased despite countries' reactions. They can be unpredictable. Here's hoping things can be settled in some way less violent.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Current Events
Well, it seems as though my chances for a Thanksgiving meal are looking slimmer and slimmer... who would've thought it'd be this difficult to find some grub. Disappointing.
So if you've been paying attention to the news, the world is focused on the new conflict between the Koreas. Some people have asked if we're ok, if I'm leaving, what people's reactions are, etc.
1) Yes I'm fine. It was occurred on an island close to the SK and NK maritime borders, so no where near Seoul, though the focus now is here. The teachers didn't know anything happened until after we got to work when some students told us the events. I'm not sure how concerned the Koreans are, but we aren't too worried about a war breaking out. North Korea has a history of picking fights on South Korea, and usually nothing comes of it, but it's hard to predict if South Korea will actually retaliate. Walking around today was normal with nothing seeming out of place.
2) As of right now I haven't even considered leaving. The only way that'd happen is if war actually breaks out again. I'm registered with the US Embassy so I would hope they'd contact me should an evacuation become necessary. Our employers haven't said anything either, so I guess they're not worried. While the event was a terrible act, it was not large-scale enough to begin such considerations.
3) I asked my students today their thoughts on the events. Some thought war will come, others didn't have much of an opinion. One kid, Hades (love the name ha), predicts that if within a week something happens, then there will be war. If not, then no war. I found that comment to be rather interesting for a 12 or 13-year-old. How would a child of the same age respond in the US, a place that for the most part never has to worry about war in their backyard?
So if you've been paying attention to the news, the world is focused on the new conflict between the Koreas. Some people have asked if we're ok, if I'm leaving, what people's reactions are, etc.
1) Yes I'm fine. It was occurred on an island close to the SK and NK maritime borders, so no where near Seoul, though the focus now is here. The teachers didn't know anything happened until after we got to work when some students told us the events. I'm not sure how concerned the Koreans are, but we aren't too worried about a war breaking out. North Korea has a history of picking fights on South Korea, and usually nothing comes of it, but it's hard to predict if South Korea will actually retaliate. Walking around today was normal with nothing seeming out of place.
2) As of right now I haven't even considered leaving. The only way that'd happen is if war actually breaks out again. I'm registered with the US Embassy so I would hope they'd contact me should an evacuation become necessary. Our employers haven't said anything either, so I guess they're not worried. While the event was a terrible act, it was not large-scale enough to begin such considerations.
3) I asked my students today their thoughts on the events. Some thought war will come, others didn't have much of an opinion. One kid, Hades (love the name ha), predicts that if within a week something happens, then there will be war. If not, then no war. I found that comment to be rather interesting for a 12 or 13-year-old. How would a child of the same age respond in the US, a place that for the most part never has to worry about war in their backyard?
Monday, November 22, 2010
Turkey Hunt
Not only am I missing Harry Potter mania, I'm also missing Thanksgiving... or at least until I have located a place that serves Thanksgiving food this weekend. I think I might've found a winner. I have to call in the morning and find out if there are any reservations open. Planning to go with Angela, Sean, his friend and maybe a few co-workers. Very strange to think I'll be eating (hopefully) my first Thanksgiving meal without family.
Now I'm starting to feel more and more like a grown-up. It's tough realizing it might become more difficult to see family during the holidays as I get older for whatever reasons. Makes me more appreciative of the times I had even while complaining about the long drives to Indiana, or there being nothing to do there once 'family time' is over or begins to wind down. Sorry Mom, Dad... though there really isn't a lot to do there. ;)
One thing I'm thankful for is that this week is my last week in the fall term. Next week I get new kids. I'm extremely ready to say adios to some of my troublesome kids. I'm not sure what I'll be teaching next term yet, although my head instructor asked me to come in early tomorrow so that I can be trained in Bridge Reading. He said I've done well this term, so they'd like to see how I'd do in Reading. Totally made my day better, even if it means I have to come in a littler earlier. Considering I haven't had any one-on-one feedback from him since week 1 or 2, this is a real boost to my career confidence.
Oh, after playing out the love between my co-worker and myself since Friday, I think the kids were clued in it's not real. I was actually going to tell them the truth our last day this coming Friday, but when they asked after one of the desk teachers said that's not true, some of the girls acted really disappointed. hahaha I'm going to miss the great drawings they create when I leave the room during break. I think one of today's drawings showed me wearing a traditional Korean hanbok dress... More photos to come via Facebook.
Now I'm starting to feel more and more like a grown-up. It's tough realizing it might become more difficult to see family during the holidays as I get older for whatever reasons. Makes me more appreciative of the times I had even while complaining about the long drives to Indiana, or there being nothing to do there once 'family time' is over or begins to wind down. Sorry Mom, Dad... though there really isn't a lot to do there. ;)
One thing I'm thankful for is that this week is my last week in the fall term. Next week I get new kids. I'm extremely ready to say adios to some of my troublesome kids. I'm not sure what I'll be teaching next term yet, although my head instructor asked me to come in early tomorrow so that I can be trained in Bridge Reading. He said I've done well this term, so they'd like to see how I'd do in Reading. Totally made my day better, even if it means I have to come in a littler earlier. Considering I haven't had any one-on-one feedback from him since week 1 or 2, this is a real boost to my career confidence.
Oh, after playing out the love between my co-worker and myself since Friday, I think the kids were clued in it's not real. I was actually going to tell them the truth our last day this coming Friday, but when they asked after one of the desk teachers said that's not true, some of the girls acted really disappointed. hahaha I'm going to miss the great drawings they create when I leave the room during break. I think one of today's drawings showed me wearing a traditional Korean hanbok dress... More photos to come via Facebook.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Lost in Translation
So my overactive imagination thought it'd be brilliant to travel to Japan to see Harry Potter because I'm jealous of all of youses in the US who can go see it now. Clearly that was an overreaction and did not happen once I began to research costs and whatnot. *sigh* Guess I'll just have to patiently wait a month for it to come out... But apparently I don't need to leave the country for an outrageous adventure.
Anyway, Went to dinner tonight with some co-workers, had a drink with them and left early since I'm going hiking with my other co-worker in the a.m. Also wanted to make sure I got on the subway before it closed at midnight (terrible terrible idea on Seoul's part). Things were fine until I went to transfer and for whatever reason we weren't allowed to transfer. So now I'm stuck somewhere I don't know and the taxis kept passing me for Koreans.
Finally got into a cab, and told him Guui-dong, then Guui station to make sure he knew where I meant. Apparently not. After a good 45 minutes and 18000 won later, I'm in Ui-dong. Long story short, through much laughter, apologies, and phone calls to a translator (I love that one of their first comments is always 'I Love America!' when they ask where you're from), I finally made it to Guui station, not before I thought I was gonna die with the high speeds, or vomit with the constant stop-and-go mixed with the high speeds, or not have anywhere to sleep. I felt bad. He felt bad. It was a mess but I paid 20,000 won just to make sure I covered the new cost and as a way to apologize.
The translator called him to talk to me a few minutes before I got out to apologize for the driver and wish me a safe, fun stay in Korea. He also said he hoped this didn't scare me or I guess leave a bad impression. Wasn't scared, just worried that I was heading somewhere I didn't know.
My first case of lost in translation. Note to self: subway over taxi, unless traveling with others. Note to self 2: Find some time to learn #*$%&^ Korean.
Anyway, Went to dinner tonight with some co-workers, had a drink with them and left early since I'm going hiking with my other co-worker in the a.m. Also wanted to make sure I got on the subway before it closed at midnight (terrible terrible idea on Seoul's part). Things were fine until I went to transfer and for whatever reason we weren't allowed to transfer. So now I'm stuck somewhere I don't know and the taxis kept passing me for Koreans.
Finally got into a cab, and told him Guui-dong, then Guui station to make sure he knew where I meant. Apparently not. After a good 45 minutes and 18000 won later, I'm in Ui-dong. Long story short, through much laughter, apologies, and phone calls to a translator (I love that one of their first comments is always 'I Love America!' when they ask where you're from), I finally made it to Guui station, not before I thought I was gonna die with the high speeds, or vomit with the constant stop-and-go mixed with the high speeds, or not have anywhere to sleep. I felt bad. He felt bad. It was a mess but I paid 20,000 won just to make sure I covered the new cost and as a way to apologize.
The translator called him to talk to me a few minutes before I got out to apologize for the driver and wish me a safe, fun stay in Korea. He also said he hoped this didn't scare me or I guess leave a bad impression. Wasn't scared, just worried that I was heading somewhere I didn't know.
My first case of lost in translation. Note to self: subway over taxi, unless traveling with others. Note to self 2: Find some time to learn #*$%&^ Korean.
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Small Things
It's amazing what things kids notice I'd consider insignificant. For example, the girls noticed I changed my eye make-up. Promise no dramatic smoky eye. Instead all I put on was eyeliner instead of some eye shadow. Yup. Big change.
The boys, on the other hand, apparently have taken notice that one of my male co-workers comes in often to chat before classes start. Normally they seem terrified of him because he's so much taller, but for whatever reason today they interpreted this to mean we are madly in love and plan to wed January 1, 2011. Mind you, this will never happen for various reasons, yet they spent their last hour of class creating a critical thinking project about the memory they'll have when said co-worker and I get married... and *gasp* kiss. I wish I had grabbed one of the better drawings they did because it was great. I'm just glad they put so much effort into it! Who am I to stop creativity?
Other thing they chose to make fun of was the way I say 'Hush' with whatever slight Southern accent enjoys popping out now and then. Guess I'll be looking for a new word!!
Now, moving on to bigger things... photos from this weekend! Beautiful, fairly relaxing trip. Stairs were set up in the cave for easy and safe access, so felt like I was going into the Temple of Doom. A sign at the entrance showed photos of various wild life -- the photos of giant spider and centipedes had be nervous, but fortunately never saw them. Did see one bat, though!
The boys, on the other hand, apparently have taken notice that one of my male co-workers comes in often to chat before classes start. Normally they seem terrified of him because he's so much taller, but for whatever reason today they interpreted this to mean we are madly in love and plan to wed January 1, 2011. Mind you, this will never happen for various reasons, yet they spent their last hour of class creating a critical thinking project about the memory they'll have when said co-worker and I get married... and *gasp* kiss. I wish I had grabbed one of the better drawings they did because it was great. I'm just glad they put so much effort into it! Who am I to stop creativity?
Other thing they chose to make fun of was the way I say 'Hush' with whatever slight Southern accent enjoys popping out now and then. Guess I'll be looking for a new word!!
Now, moving on to bigger things... photos from this weekend! Beautiful, fairly relaxing trip. Stairs were set up in the cave for easy and safe access, so felt like I was going into the Temple of Doom. A sign at the entrance showed photos of various wild life -- the photos of giant spider and centipedes had be nervous, but fortunately never saw them. Did see one bat, though!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Hello, I am Alive.
Apologies for the lack of posting. It's been very very busy with the iBT testing (kids find out results this coming week!) and classes in general. Plus, I met up with people and/or had dermatologist appointments (or slept through them....) so haven't had much chance to come here. Guess the good news is that I'm managing to stay active.
A bigger update will come after I upload photos from my day trip to outside of Seoul to visit a cave and ride a ferry with Angela. Details then. Just wanted to share that indeed, I am still alive.
A bigger update will come after I upload photos from my day trip to outside of Seoul to visit a cave and ride a ferry with Angela. Details then. Just wanted to share that indeed, I am still alive.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
iBT Testing
Today was Day 1 of iBT Testing. Monday and Tuesday were practice days for my Memory English classes. Today I had Bridge Listening, the more advanced class, so it was interesting proctoring their writing, reading, and listening sections. I enjoyed their speaking sections because it was clear they were nervous (yeah yeah sounds terrible of me), but they created good responses considering they had 15 seconds to think of a response, and 45 seconds to respond. They had to respond to the question of what one item they would bring on a trip other than the essentials. Funnily enough, many seemed to take it as a trip to a deserted island rather than a simple trip. I had answers ranging from a lighter, textbooks, food/water, to money.
iBT scores determine if a student will level up to the next class, or if he or she will have to repeat the class. However, this is not the sole measure of determining who repeats, and who levels up, but it is a big factor. I imagine some from my Memory English will repeat, or should based on their work ethic this term. Bridge Listening could go either way. As the name suggests, it is a bridge between the easier classes and the harder ones, so it's apparently not uncommon for students to repeat it before successfully leveling up.
iBT scores determine if a student will level up to the next class, or if he or she will have to repeat the class. However, this is not the sole measure of determining who repeats, and who levels up, but it is a big factor. I imagine some from my Memory English will repeat, or should based on their work ethic this term. Bridge Listening could go either way. As the name suggests, it is a bridge between the easier classes and the harder ones, so it's apparently not uncommon for students to repeat it before successfully leveling up.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween!!!
Yep. What the title says.
Hope everyone had fun / is having fun dressing up and giving out candy... or eating it. ;) Sure wish I could find some American candy to munch on this fine holiday. While these Korean cream fruit candies are swell, not quite the same as your Junior Mints, Laffy Taffys, Nerds, and those chocolate caramel candies in chocolate that I suddenly can't remember the name of... Ahhh it's gonna kill me until I remember. I wanna say it starts with a D... clearly things are bad when I can't remember candy names.
I "celebrated" Halloween with a hike on Mt. Achasan with Angela, then lunch - Korean barbeque that I'd been craving as my first fully solid meal! Huzzah. My stomach is back in action. I hope to never repeat that terrible experience.
I just finished watching the Disney classic Hocus Pocus, and might even watch another movie before bed... perhaps my go-to film, Shaun of the Dead. Thanks iTunes for having it on sale for $4.99!!
Well, tomorrow starts the week of iBT testing, the big test that determines if the children level up, or stay in their current course for another term. Here's hoping the students I've had suddenly take all my wonderful study tips and do well!! Ha.
UPDATE: I remembered the candy name!!!!! MILKDUDS. Well, there's a 'D' in there somewhere.
Hope everyone had fun / is having fun dressing up and giving out candy... or eating it. ;) Sure wish I could find some American candy to munch on this fine holiday. While these Korean cream fruit candies are swell, not quite the same as your Junior Mints, Laffy Taffys, Nerds, and those chocolate caramel candies in chocolate that I suddenly can't remember the name of... Ahhh it's gonna kill me until I remember. I wanna say it starts with a D... clearly things are bad when I can't remember candy names.
I "celebrated" Halloween with a hike on Mt. Achasan with Angela, then lunch - Korean barbeque that I'd been craving as my first fully solid meal! Huzzah. My stomach is back in action. I hope to never repeat that terrible experience.
I just finished watching the Disney classic Hocus Pocus, and might even watch another movie before bed... perhaps my go-to film, Shaun of the Dead. Thanks iTunes for having it on sale for $4.99!!
Well, tomorrow starts the week of iBT testing, the big test that determines if the children level up, or stay in their current course for another term. Here's hoping the students I've had suddenly take all my wonderful study tips and do well!! Ha.
UPDATE: I remembered the candy name!!!!! MILKDUDS. Well, there's a 'D' in there somewhere.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
What Comes Around, Goes Around
Perhaps Justin Timberlake was talking about love and karma, but something else can go around... sickness.
So Tuesday saw the splendid evening of student vomit. I was already battling a headache and fever, and then to add on to that, good ole stomach issues. I'll not get into details. Ha
Something must be going around here because others have felt badly, though not to the extent I was. Fortunately, everything got better yesterday. Now, I need to work on eating solid foods again. Last solid meal was Sunday. I've mostly been sipping juice, Gatorade, and munching on crackers or granola bars here and there. Plus the occasional fruit a kind student might give to me.
Halloween is coming just around the corner!! Unfortunately it's not as widely celebrated here as it is at home, so that's been adjustment to my second favorite holiday (first being Fourth of July). Debating whether or not to test my stomach controls with some candy... hmmmm. This Halloween looks like it'll be lowkey.
So Tuesday saw the splendid evening of student vomit. I was already battling a headache and fever, and then to add on to that, good ole stomach issues. I'll not get into details. Ha
Something must be going around here because others have felt badly, though not to the extent I was. Fortunately, everything got better yesterday. Now, I need to work on eating solid foods again. Last solid meal was Sunday. I've mostly been sipping juice, Gatorade, and munching on crackers or granola bars here and there. Plus the occasional fruit a kind student might give to me.
Halloween is coming just around the corner!! Unfortunately it's not as widely celebrated here as it is at home, so that's been adjustment to my second favorite holiday (first being Fourth of July). Debating whether or not to test my stomach controls with some candy... hmmmm. This Halloween looks like it'll be lowkey.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Teaching Ups and Downs
Like any job, teaching has it's ups and downs. Let me share a quick down, though actually there is an up... as in throw up.
One of my students didn't feel well so she had her head on her desk, which I don't normally like but if she isn't feeling well I rather her try calm down and just be. I know that I haven't felt well yesterday or today so I'd want the same thing. Two minutes before break as we're going over our model summaries, I hear a splashing sound and students yelling 'Teacher!' I was then witness to the lovely sight of more vomit. Ughh. Won't be getting that out of my mind for a while.
On that note, hope everyone has a much better day!!
One of my students didn't feel well so she had her head on her desk, which I don't normally like but if she isn't feeling well I rather her try calm down and just be. I know that I haven't felt well yesterday or today so I'd want the same thing. Two minutes before break as we're going over our model summaries, I hear a splashing sound and students yelling 'Teacher!' I was then witness to the lovely sight of more vomit. Ughh. Won't be getting that out of my mind for a while.
On that note, hope everyone has a much better day!!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Parent-Teacher Conferences and Weekend
This week was very busy! So busy I managed to fall asleep Saturday around 8pm and woke up after 10 am Sunday. Haha
Parent-Teacher Conferences went well this past Thursday. I saw 7 mothers, and I was able to talk to one child's mother who I definitely needed to talk to (he got into a fight with another student Monday). We discussed through a translator their grades, participation in class, and suggestions for improvement. For one student I need to find some books that might help him become a more confident reader and speaker, so any suggestions would be wonderful. Keep in mind that although he's about 10 or so, he's still learning English so I don't think some of the amazing chapter books out there would be for him. Would love for him to get to that point, though!
On Saturday I met up with Sean, my friend from high school who's teaching just outside of Seoul for lunch and to check out the Olympic Park. Beautiful place! Definitely bigger than the Atlanta Centennial Park, and perhaps a little cooler... Of course, I really think the last time I was in Centennial Park was the 90s, so perhaps it's changed since then.
Today Sean and I met again in his area, Seongnam, to hike Namhansanseong, one of the popular mountains to go hiking. I think this might be the reason why you see very few overweight Koreans. There were some serious hills... and a serious workout. I should've taken pictures of the crazy steps we went up, but I was more concerned with making it up there. Haha Definitely got to put my new running trail shoes to good use. Below are a few photos from this weekend.
Seoul Olympic Park
Beautiful Walking Area -- Might be one of my favorite photos
My attempt at the infamous Korean photo pose
Beautiful views from the top
Fortress waiting for us near the top
Parent-Teacher Conferences went well this past Thursday. I saw 7 mothers, and I was able to talk to one child's mother who I definitely needed to talk to (he got into a fight with another student Monday). We discussed through a translator their grades, participation in class, and suggestions for improvement. For one student I need to find some books that might help him become a more confident reader and speaker, so any suggestions would be wonderful. Keep in mind that although he's about 10 or so, he's still learning English so I don't think some of the amazing chapter books out there would be for him. Would love for him to get to that point, though!
On Saturday I met up with Sean, my friend from high school who's teaching just outside of Seoul for lunch and to check out the Olympic Park. Beautiful place! Definitely bigger than the Atlanta Centennial Park, and perhaps a little cooler... Of course, I really think the last time I was in Centennial Park was the 90s, so perhaps it's changed since then.
Today Sean and I met again in his area, Seongnam, to hike Namhansanseong, one of the popular mountains to go hiking. I think this might be the reason why you see very few overweight Koreans. There were some serious hills... and a serious workout. I should've taken pictures of the crazy steps we went up, but I was more concerned with making it up there. Haha Definitely got to put my new running trail shoes to good use. Below are a few photos from this weekend.
Seoul Olympic Park
Beautiful Walking Area -- Might be one of my favorite photos
My attempt at the infamous Korean photo pose
Beautiful views from the top
Fortress waiting for us near the top
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Quick Update
As the title suggests, just a quick update for the week before I go to bed.
Tomorrow marks my two month anniversary. Again, hard to believe I've been here 2 months already. But clearly it has been because bills are coming in. Yeahhh I feel like a grown up being able to pay for them all by myself. My first bill was for gas it was for about $4. FOUR DOLLARS! Completely unheard of when I was in charge of the gas bills for the SEA house. The only time it was anywhere near that low was for this past May when we were all gone for the most part after graduation / end of school.
Tomorrow I also have my first parent-teacher conferences. The branch is trying this out for the first time in a few years as a way to communicate more with parents as more students are leaving across the company. Apparently even the economy in Korea is beginning to slow, and since many students go to multiple academies, sometimes you gotta cut the budget. Not sure how many parents I'll see, but they'll most likely be mothers, and I'll need a translator. Hopefully some of the parents I really need to talk to will come. Some kids have been slacking off on their work and it's affecting their grades. I would hate to make them repeat the level just because they don't do their homework and/or show little concern for their progress.
Tomorrow marks my two month anniversary. Again, hard to believe I've been here 2 months already. But clearly it has been because bills are coming in. Yeahhh I feel like a grown up being able to pay for them all by myself. My first bill was for gas it was for about $4. FOUR DOLLARS! Completely unheard of when I was in charge of the gas bills for the SEA house. The only time it was anywhere near that low was for this past May when we were all gone for the most part after graduation / end of school.
Tomorrow I also have my first parent-teacher conferences. The branch is trying this out for the first time in a few years as a way to communicate more with parents as more students are leaving across the company. Apparently even the economy in Korea is beginning to slow, and since many students go to multiple academies, sometimes you gotta cut the budget. Not sure how many parents I'll see, but they'll most likely be mothers, and I'll need a translator. Hopefully some of the parents I really need to talk to will come. Some kids have been slacking off on their work and it's affecting their grades. I would hate to make them repeat the level just because they don't do their homework and/or show little concern for their progress.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Itaewon Global Village Festival
I traveled to Itaewon with my friend Angela this afternoon to check out the Global Village Festival, and it was pretty stinkin' awesome. They had food stalls set up with food from around the world... My dinner was a spicy lamb wrap from Iran. We managed to find a wall to sit on and eat our food as we watched a band cover some of my favorite American alternative hits. A few videos below:
Cover of 90s grunge heroes Nirvana
Traditional Korean drums... plus techno?
Cover of 90s grunge heroes Nirvana
Traditional Korean drums... plus techno?
Friday, October 15, 2010
Not the Kimchi!!!!
Forget the South Korea - North Korea crisis... it's all about the kimchi crisis!!
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/15/world/asia/15kimchi.html?_r=1&src=me&ref=homepage/
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/15/world/asia/15kimchi.html?_r=1&src=me&ref=homepage/
Hug an Asian Day
Apparently today, October 15 is Hug an Asian Day.
So, my advice to you for the day... go hug someone, Asian or not. Hugs are wonderful. I miss them.
Now, where am *I* gonna find an Asian to hug!?!?
So, my advice to you for the day... go hug someone, Asian or not. Hugs are wonderful. I miss them.
Now, where am *I* gonna find an Asian to hug!?!?
Sunday, October 10, 2010
C'est La Vie
I think this is the name of a song from the 90s Irish pop group, B*Witched. Yes, I have their CD back home. Oh, the 90s.
Speaking of the Irish, I went to the Irish music and dance festival this afternoon with a friend I met at the Embassy, rode on the plane with, and we trained together. Took some videos, hopefully at an hour that does not read single digits in the a.m. I will be able to post a video or two. It was your typical Irish festival, minus the crazy Irish drunks... oh, yeah, and there were lots of Koreans doing Irish dances. The greatness of cultural mingling.
After watching that for a few hours, we made our way to the shopping district of Seoul, Myeng-dong. We spent another few hours inside the 3-story Forever 21 looking for various fall/winter-ish outfits. I found a couple of cute things, but right now they seem to still have mostly fall clothes out. I did buy a hip coral-colored blazer to go with a pin-striped shirt. My attempt to become a Korean fashionista. We'll see how that goes.
Speaking of the Irish, I went to the Irish music and dance festival this afternoon with a friend I met at the Embassy, rode on the plane with, and we trained together. Took some videos, hopefully at an hour that does not read single digits in the a.m. I will be able to post a video or two. It was your typical Irish festival, minus the crazy Irish drunks... oh, yeah, and there were lots of Koreans doing Irish dances. The greatness of cultural mingling.
After watching that for a few hours, we made our way to the shopping district of Seoul, Myeng-dong. We spent another few hours inside the 3-story Forever 21 looking for various fall/winter-ish outfits. I found a couple of cute things, but right now they seem to still have mostly fall clothes out. I did buy a hip coral-colored blazer to go with a pin-striped shirt. My attempt to become a Korean fashionista. We'll see how that goes.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Joys and Concerns
The church my family attended for a while when I was growing up used to have a time for joys and concerns. My last post I mentioned my Monday/Friday class I generally do not look forward to because of some attitudes. Well, I'm happy to report a joy: I feel as though I might've had a breakthrough with the "problem student."
Most classes she might do her homework, but never have exceptional grades on her tests. Every Monday we have a review test from the two lessons covered the previous week.
This Monday I was pleasantly surprise to not only see that she had completed her homework, but she also did very well on her application and memorization test!!! I would like to think she had a wake-up call, perhaps literally when I had the front desk call home about her incomplete work. Maybe even my talks to her about not studying and/or refusing to participate was only hurting herself and her grade sunk in. Maybe my multiple notes of encouragement sent to her via the online site whenever I saw a sign of improvement are working their magic... Or maybe it'll just be a one time thing, but the positive me is hoping this is not the case. Class was actually enjoyable, and I think she and a few others realized that.
Also found out today I have to work Saturday. Boo. Positive side, it's only for 2 hours in what is called the A+ Hunters. Those students who have not done well (and by not well the company thinks anything below an A- is not good... not sure how I feel about this) come into class to re-study the material and re-test as a chance to replace their previous test grade. I didn't think I'd be picked since I'm a newbie, so not sure if this a sign of approval for my teaching methods or what... but at least I'll be making a little extra money! I already had a lot more hours than other co-workers since some of their classes were canceled this week and last week due to middle school testing.
Sunday I'm going to the Irish Festival in Seoul with a friend from training... noooo idea why they're having an Irish Festival, but it should be entertaining!!! Afterwards the plan is to go shopping at Forever 21 and/or H&M (YAY payday today!!!) to stock up on some winter-ish clothes. I'm discovering I may not be as prepared for winter as I originally thought. Georgia winters will be no match for Seoul winters. JOY. A sarcastic joy.
Most classes she might do her homework, but never have exceptional grades on her tests. Every Monday we have a review test from the two lessons covered the previous week.
This Monday I was pleasantly surprise to not only see that she had completed her homework, but she also did very well on her application and memorization test!!! I would like to think she had a wake-up call, perhaps literally when I had the front desk call home about her incomplete work. Maybe even my talks to her about not studying and/or refusing to participate was only hurting herself and her grade sunk in. Maybe my multiple notes of encouragement sent to her via the online site whenever I saw a sign of improvement are working their magic... Or maybe it'll just be a one time thing, but the positive me is hoping this is not the case. Class was actually enjoyable, and I think she and a few others realized that.
Also found out today I have to work Saturday. Boo. Positive side, it's only for 2 hours in what is called the A+ Hunters. Those students who have not done well (and by not well the company thinks anything below an A- is not good... not sure how I feel about this) come into class to re-study the material and re-test as a chance to replace their previous test grade. I didn't think I'd be picked since I'm a newbie, so not sure if this a sign of approval for my teaching methods or what... but at least I'll be making a little extra money! I already had a lot more hours than other co-workers since some of their classes were canceled this week and last week due to middle school testing.
Sunday I'm going to the Irish Festival in Seoul with a friend from training... noooo idea why they're having an Irish Festival, but it should be entertaining!!! Afterwards the plan is to go shopping at Forever 21 and/or H&M (YAY payday today!!!) to stock up on some winter-ish clothes. I'm discovering I may not be as prepared for winter as I originally thought. Georgia winters will be no match for Seoul winters. JOY. A sarcastic joy.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Hello, Goodbye
Brittanie left this morning to return to Atlanta. I went with her and the Korean family she knows to the airport. I was sad to see her go but hopeful for what's waiting for her back at home.
My apartment is now very quiet and boringggg. Now I'll have to find new ways to amuse myself, although episodes of Modern Family help. I might have to continue my routine of sightseeing before work or else I might return to sleeping in and accomplishing little during the daytime. I really want to go back to the Buddhist temple we found near the business district of Seoul. It's a very peaceful place and seems like it could be a great place to just sit and think, even though I'm not Buddhist, when the weather's good.
Monday starts another week of work. It's amazing how quickly the days go by. It certainly makes it easier to get through the classes I don't always enjoy. I'm working on trying to have a more positive attitude with some of the students. It was going well Friday until the girl I don't like much ruined it by being her normal sour self. I think the middle school age is great, but sometimes the moods are just too much. Ohhh the joys of a young adolescent's development.
Milledgeville?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AytSwTkIQUk&ob=av2n
Jesusland by Ben Folds
My apartment is now very quiet and boringggg. Now I'll have to find new ways to amuse myself, although episodes of Modern Family help. I might have to continue my routine of sightseeing before work or else I might return to sleeping in and accomplishing little during the daytime. I really want to go back to the Buddhist temple we found near the business district of Seoul. It's a very peaceful place and seems like it could be a great place to just sit and think, even though I'm not Buddhist, when the weather's good.
Monday starts another week of work. It's amazing how quickly the days go by. It certainly makes it easier to get through the classes I don't always enjoy. I'm working on trying to have a more positive attitude with some of the students. It was going well Friday until the girl I don't like much ruined it by being her normal sour self. I think the middle school age is great, but sometimes the moods are just too much. Ohhh the joys of a young adolescent's development.
Milledgeville?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AytSwTkIQUk&ob=av2n
Jesusland by Ben Folds
Friday, October 1, 2010
Saying Goodbye
Tomorrow Brittanie returns to the US. Despite her unyielding efforts, she was not able to work things out with Immigration in time to find a job. Kudos to the US Embassy for attempting to help as well. Fortunately, she was able to line up a job back at home so at least she's not going home empty-handed.
I loved having her here with me, if even for only a few weeks. This was the first time we were able to spend a lot of time together since high school. After years of talking about living together, it finally happened. Although cramped in a place just barely large enough for me, we had fun together. I'm glad she was here to help me explore before work, giving me a reason to actually get up rather than sleep in as late as possible. With her I was also able to try new foods from my favorite kimbap restaurant (a delicious place near my house with popular, cheap Korean dishes).
After having Brittanie with me for so long, I'll have to adjust again to having an apartment to myself and not being around someone I really know. I quite enjoyed having someone to come home to and hanging out with someone with my same values and understanding of my personality. Now that it's been a month here, I'm realizing that some of my coworkers have different values than me. Korea is a drinking, smoking, etc culture and they are taking full advantage of that during their stay here. I don't mind a drink now and then, but I would like to remember my evenings, especially if I was to go out multiple nights in a row. I'm using this moment as a moment of clarity with God to further understand my role here and who I want to be... and who I want to be with.
I loved having her here with me, if even for only a few weeks. This was the first time we were able to spend a lot of time together since high school. After years of talking about living together, it finally happened. Although cramped in a place just barely large enough for me, we had fun together. I'm glad she was here to help me explore before work, giving me a reason to actually get up rather than sleep in as late as possible. With her I was also able to try new foods from my favorite kimbap restaurant (a delicious place near my house with popular, cheap Korean dishes).
After having Brittanie with me for so long, I'll have to adjust again to having an apartment to myself and not being around someone I really know. I quite enjoyed having someone to come home to and hanging out with someone with my same values and understanding of my personality. Now that it's been a month here, I'm realizing that some of my coworkers have different values than me. Korea is a drinking, smoking, etc culture and they are taking full advantage of that during their stay here. I don't mind a drink now and then, but I would like to remember my evenings, especially if I was to go out multiple nights in a row. I'm using this moment as a moment of clarity with God to further understand my role here and who I want to be... and who I want to be with.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
10 Things I Miss about You
This week marked my 1-month milestone of being in Korea. A month sure has flown by. I almost feel like I've only been here about two weeks.
Although I've been adjusting fairly well, there are some things I miss:
1) Southern foods... aka Chick-fil-a and Waffle House. Can't tell you how many times I've thought about a delicious chocolate pecan waffle or a Caesar wrap. Not that I ever ate these often in the US, but now that they're not readily available I sure would like one.
2) Dryers. Never have I wanted to do laundry so badly. Korea is mega technologically advanced, yet people still dry their clothes the old fashion way...
3) My cellphone. The cellphone I have now is pretty cool (still want to test out that video chat), but I wish I could text message people back home. It's hard being limited to those people I can call up at a moment's whim.
4) Being able to easily communicate with people.
5) Easy access to friends and family. Especially with the events of this past week, I realized how scary and inconvenient it can be not having a family member or friend close by.
6) My dog. Yup.
7) Not being stared at when walking around town. I don't get stares as often as other people I know, but still it's strange seeing them out of the corner of my eye when it does happen. Although, it was very amusing when a Korean man thought I was from Spain.
8) American water systems. You read that right. The Korean water and air quality here aren't the best, and they're showing their effects on my face every time I wash it or walk outside. I feel like a middle schooler all over again.
9) Music and movies!!! Some K-Pop is great, but my days are totally made whenever I hear the random Maroon 5 or Jason Mraz at the country subway stop in Suwon or hip mall in Seoul.
10) TV. TV. TV. Glee, I miss thee. I miss watching it the night it's on. If Lost was still on, the world would be over for me.
Although I've been adjusting fairly well, there are some things I miss:
1) Southern foods... aka Chick-fil-a and Waffle House. Can't tell you how many times I've thought about a delicious chocolate pecan waffle or a Caesar wrap. Not that I ever ate these often in the US, but now that they're not readily available I sure would like one.
2) Dryers. Never have I wanted to do laundry so badly. Korea is mega technologically advanced, yet people still dry their clothes the old fashion way...
3) My cellphone. The cellphone I have now is pretty cool (still want to test out that video chat), but I wish I could text message people back home. It's hard being limited to those people I can call up at a moment's whim.
4) Being able to easily communicate with people.
5) Easy access to friends and family. Especially with the events of this past week, I realized how scary and inconvenient it can be not having a family member or friend close by.
6) My dog. Yup.
7) Not being stared at when walking around town. I don't get stares as often as other people I know, but still it's strange seeing them out of the corner of my eye when it does happen. Although, it was very amusing when a Korean man thought I was from Spain.
8) American water systems. You read that right. The Korean water and air quality here aren't the best, and they're showing their effects on my face every time I wash it or walk outside. I feel like a middle schooler all over again.
9) Music and movies!!! Some K-Pop is great, but my days are totally made whenever I hear the random Maroon 5 or Jason Mraz at the country subway stop in Suwon or hip mall in Seoul.
10) TV. TV. TV. Glee, I miss thee. I miss watching it the night it's on. If Lost was still on, the world would be over for me.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Chuseok Holiday
Happy Chuseok!!!!
For those who don't know, I went to Suwon Sunday to visit Brittanie, but also bring her back to Seoul with me for the next two weeks. Long story extremely short, Saturday evening she was attacked by a guy not far from her apartment who tried to drag her into one of the sketch motels. Fortunately, she was able to get away uninjured, but as one can imagine, she is very frightened and no longer feels safe in her area. I went to school with her the next day as well to be her support as she talked to them about what to do. I also wanted to see a Korean public school and compare to my job at a private after-school program. Ultimately she decided to leave her job, choosing her safety over the paycheck. After talking with the co-teacher and principal, she was told that they could move her, but it was not known how long this would take, or if her new place would be any safer, and she'd have to fund her own housing. They rushed her to make a decision, so we'll see if maybe she can get out of her contract and find a job her before she has to leave the country October 3rd.
In the meantime, today we met Sean, a friend of ours from high school and also currently teaching in Korea, to check out Lotte World, the largest in-door amusement park in the world. Amusing it was. It's basically a knock off of Disney with a similar logo, raccoons as your main mascots rather than mice, and parades throughout the day. At one point in the afternoon there was a talent show and we were fortunate enough to witness this beauty of talent:
For those who don't know, I went to Suwon Sunday to visit Brittanie, but also bring her back to Seoul with me for the next two weeks. Long story extremely short, Saturday evening she was attacked by a guy not far from her apartment who tried to drag her into one of the sketch motels. Fortunately, she was able to get away uninjured, but as one can imagine, she is very frightened and no longer feels safe in her area. I went to school with her the next day as well to be her support as she talked to them about what to do. I also wanted to see a Korean public school and compare to my job at a private after-school program. Ultimately she decided to leave her job, choosing her safety over the paycheck. After talking with the co-teacher and principal, she was told that they could move her, but it was not known how long this would take, or if her new place would be any safer, and she'd have to fund her own housing. They rushed her to make a decision, so we'll see if maybe she can get out of her contract and find a job her before she has to leave the country October 3rd.
In the meantime, today we met Sean, a friend of ours from high school and also currently teaching in Korea, to check out Lotte World, the largest in-door amusement park in the world. Amusing it was. It's basically a knock off of Disney with a similar logo, raccoons as your main mascots rather than mice, and parades throughout the day. At one point in the afternoon there was a talent show and we were fortunate enough to witness this beauty of talent:
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Top 10: Unique Korea
The following list is inspired by Ms. Carri Jean after a Facebook convo. :)
Korea certainly has many items I have not before seen in the US -- food, video calling on cellphones, technology, floors and floors of clothes, etc. Below is a list of the 10 most unique tidbits of Korea that has caught my eye thus far, or that I can remember at this posting:
1) NO public trashcans. More of a nuisance, really. Lately, I have seen more trashcans in the streets. And along with that, "taking out the trash" means putting trash in a specific colored bag and laying it somewhere outside where it will magically disappear by the next day.
2) Korea is most definitely a drinking culture. Many times after work I see the Korean businessmen walking around either stumbling, or with a young woman who is clearly drunk. Mind you, it's only around 10pm, sooo they must've started drinking only a few hours before.
3) No dryer. This makes doing laundry a tad difficult. There is a laundry room of sorts where I hang clothes to dry (as seen in the video), but depending on the sun, it can take hours or days to dry. My clothes, especially my pants, can also end up wrinkled, sooo finding an ironing board needs to be high on my to-do list, but that means I'd have to carry it on the subway, or take a taxi back.
4) Pedestrians do NOT have right of way. You either cross when you feel like being a daredevil, or when you see all the Koreans walking. Blend into the crowd and hope you're not somehow singled out by those crazy delivery vans or on a mission cabs.
5) The streets of Seoul are a fashion show. I want in on this fashion show.
6) You haven't had spicy food until you've eaten Korean spicy. Your lips will hurt. Your mouth will hate you. Canker sores might form. Ouchhh. Unfortunately, your water is served in the equivalent of a sippy cup. My coworkers and I feel like whales... or maybe just wimps... when we have to continually re-fill our cups.
7) If you want to take a warm or hot shower, you must first remember to push the button in your room that turns it on. Then enjoy drenching the bathroom. At least you come out clean.
8) Korean streets have some of the most interesting, and not so pleasant, smells.
9) How do you prevent the American way of buying more food and things than you *really* need? Simple. Follow this motto: Buy only what you can carry, and what you can eat within a few days. Food does not have our preservatives, so things will spoil quickly. Hope you can eat a dozen kiwis or bananas in 4 days.
10) Never before have I seen so many Dunkin' Donuts or Outbacks. Dunkin' Donuts I can understand... but Outback? How often do people really say, "Man. I could really go for some Outback."
Happy weekend! Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) now begins!!! No class until Thursday, so I'm headed to Suwon tomorrow for a few days to see Brittanie. Then, she will spend some of her break with me.
Korea certainly has many items I have not before seen in the US -- food, video calling on cellphones, technology, floors and floors of clothes, etc. Below is a list of the 10 most unique tidbits of Korea that has caught my eye thus far, or that I can remember at this posting:
1) NO public trashcans. More of a nuisance, really. Lately, I have seen more trashcans in the streets. And along with that, "taking out the trash" means putting trash in a specific colored bag and laying it somewhere outside where it will magically disappear by the next day.
2) Korea is most definitely a drinking culture. Many times after work I see the Korean businessmen walking around either stumbling, or with a young woman who is clearly drunk. Mind you, it's only around 10pm, sooo they must've started drinking only a few hours before.
3) No dryer. This makes doing laundry a tad difficult. There is a laundry room of sorts where I hang clothes to dry (as seen in the video), but depending on the sun, it can take hours or days to dry. My clothes, especially my pants, can also end up wrinkled, sooo finding an ironing board needs to be high on my to-do list, but that means I'd have to carry it on the subway, or take a taxi back.
4) Pedestrians do NOT have right of way. You either cross when you feel like being a daredevil, or when you see all the Koreans walking. Blend into the crowd and hope you're not somehow singled out by those crazy delivery vans or on a mission cabs.
5) The streets of Seoul are a fashion show. I want in on this fashion show.
6) You haven't had spicy food until you've eaten Korean spicy. Your lips will hurt. Your mouth will hate you. Canker sores might form. Ouchhh. Unfortunately, your water is served in the equivalent of a sippy cup. My coworkers and I feel like whales... or maybe just wimps... when we have to continually re-fill our cups.
7) If you want to take a warm or hot shower, you must first remember to push the button in your room that turns it on. Then enjoy drenching the bathroom. At least you come out clean.
8) Korean streets have some of the most interesting, and not so pleasant, smells.
9) How do you prevent the American way of buying more food and things than you *really* need? Simple. Follow this motto: Buy only what you can carry, and what you can eat within a few days. Food does not have our preservatives, so things will spoil quickly. Hope you can eat a dozen kiwis or bananas in 4 days.
10) Never before have I seen so many Dunkin' Donuts or Outbacks. Dunkin' Donuts I can understand... but Outback? How often do people really say, "Man. I could really go for some Outback."
Happy weekend! Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) now begins!!! No class until Thursday, so I'm headed to Suwon tomorrow for a few days to see Brittanie. Then, she will spend some of her break with me.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Wedding Dress
Ha. Got your attention.
Enjoy the music renderings of some K-Pop. The Head Teacher at my branch described Korea as being a decade or two behind us. We've moved on to rap and country (blech!) but they're all about their versions of our 90's lovin' boy bands.
Here's a peek:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uthxUVMcYw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yDhql20TSU
This singer is from the mega popular Big Bang. Some of my students loveeee them.
And for the record, I only said wedding dress since that's the name of a song.... ;)
Enjoy the music renderings of some K-Pop. The Head Teacher at my branch described Korea as being a decade or two behind us. We've moved on to rap and country (blech!) but they're all about their versions of our 90's lovin' boy bands.
Here's a peek:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uthxUVMcYw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yDhql20TSU
This singer is from the mega popular Big Bang. Some of my students loveeee them.
And for the record, I only said wedding dress since that's the name of a song.... ;)
Monday, September 13, 2010
Crazy Story of the Day
If you've ever been around kids, then you know they say the craziest things.
For instance, last week one of my girls in my Monday/Friday class came in with a giant bandage on her head, which covered stitches. Apparently during school she had tried to reach for her lunch tray, and when she did so her desk (or table?) toppled over, thus causing her to bash her head as she fell forward. Some of the details might be lost in translation, but essentially she was rushed to the ER and had 6 stitches. Not such a crazy story. Intriguing, yes, but crazy, maybe.
This girl came in today with her stitches gone and replaced with a small band-aid. During the middle of the lesson, the ever-thrilling "What should we eliminate in the sentence?", she raises her hand and proceeds to tell me her grandma told her that the bump on her leg, aka your knee, is actually a potato, or has a potato in it. Something of the sort. Pretty sure I gave her a WTF!!! look. She, of course, just smiled.
I just might never be able to look at my knee in the same manner again. And perhaps same for you.
And on that note, I leave you with my current obsession (guilty pleasure obsession): Nick Jonas. Yes. I like a Jonas Brother. HELP!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKTct-5i1OA
Cheers.
For instance, last week one of my girls in my Monday/Friday class came in with a giant bandage on her head, which covered stitches. Apparently during school she had tried to reach for her lunch tray, and when she did so her desk (or table?) toppled over, thus causing her to bash her head as she fell forward. Some of the details might be lost in translation, but essentially she was rushed to the ER and had 6 stitches. Not such a crazy story. Intriguing, yes, but crazy, maybe.
This girl came in today with her stitches gone and replaced with a small band-aid. During the middle of the lesson, the ever-thrilling "What should we eliminate in the sentence?", she raises her hand and proceeds to tell me her grandma told her that the bump on her leg, aka your knee, is actually a potato, or has a potato in it. Something of the sort. Pretty sure I gave her a WTF!!! look. She, of course, just smiled.
I just might never be able to look at my knee in the same manner again. And perhaps same for you.
And on that note, I leave you with my current obsession (guilty pleasure obsession): Nick Jonas. Yes. I like a Jonas Brother. HELP!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKTct-5i1OA
Cheers.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Quick Update
I finished my second week of teaching. Starting to find a routine with the kids and classes. I teach the same material many many times so the days sometimes run together. Ha
Very excited for today because my bff Brittanie is FINALLY joining me in Korea. :) Hopefully we can meet up this evening, but with our lack of cellphones and possibly her lack of internet, this meet-up may or may not happen. She'll be in Suwon, right outside Seoul, but a rather long subway ride. Perhaps once my Korean improves I can brave the buses and discover if that's any quicker.
Major news of the weekend: bought rainboots. Yup. Desperately needed them. I was tired of being ill-prepared shoe wise. Definitely should've made room in my suitcases for my rainboots!!! Oh, well. Now I have some cool black/white tweed-style boots. I went to the Wal-mart like E-mart and found the last pair. Actually, there were 2 pairs but the other had heels and since I can trip over nothing in flip flops, heels + rain + uneven sidewalks sounds like a terrible idea.
Very excited for today because my bff Brittanie is FINALLY joining me in Korea. :) Hopefully we can meet up this evening, but with our lack of cellphones and possibly her lack of internet, this meet-up may or may not happen. She'll be in Suwon, right outside Seoul, but a rather long subway ride. Perhaps once my Korean improves I can brave the buses and discover if that's any quicker.
Major news of the weekend: bought rainboots. Yup. Desperately needed them. I was tired of being ill-prepared shoe wise. Definitely should've made room in my suitcases for my rainboots!!! Oh, well. Now I have some cool black/white tweed-style boots. I went to the Wal-mart like E-mart and found the last pair. Actually, there were 2 pairs but the other had heels and since I can trip over nothing in flip flops, heels + rain + uneven sidewalks sounds like a terrible idea.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Weekend Weekend Weekend
Weekends are great no matter where you are... catching up on sleep, talking to family and friends on Skype, exploring... maybe some cleaning.
Saturday I went to Itaewon, which is the city largely known for its expat community. I went with my roommate from training, and it was my first time navigating the subway lines solo. Didn't get lost once. YAY ME!
My main purpose was to get the much desired third book of the Hunger Games series, Mockingjay. If you have not read this series, I highly highly highly suggest it. You will not be disappointed!!!! After I found it, we just walked and down the streets browsing alleyway stores. I know where I'll go should I crave McDonald's, Burger King, Taco Bell, etc. It was nice hearing some English again as well.
Oh, so apparently a typhoon hit us on Thursday morning. I had heard whisperings that it'd strike, but didn't know when or where. Well, it struck while I was sleeping, probably around 6 am. Surprisingly, or perhaps not so surprisingly, I slept through it for the most part. When the wind was at its strongest I did wake up because I was concerned something was going to either fly through my window and hit me (but I figured the bars would protect me haha) or large amounts of debris would shatter the building's glass doors. Neither occurred. I was too tired to be completely worried so I fell back asleep for another few hours. I spent the afternoon-evening at school and enjoyed the conversations about what was broken, what the kids saw, etc. Either they embellished a bit or their area was hit worse. The biggest concern was that one kid's computer broke. haha
Happy Weekend!
Saturday I went to Itaewon, which is the city largely known for its expat community. I went with my roommate from training, and it was my first time navigating the subway lines solo. Didn't get lost once. YAY ME!
My main purpose was to get the much desired third book of the Hunger Games series, Mockingjay. If you have not read this series, I highly highly highly suggest it. You will not be disappointed!!!! After I found it, we just walked and down the streets browsing alleyway stores. I know where I'll go should I crave McDonald's, Burger King, Taco Bell, etc. It was nice hearing some English again as well.
Oh, so apparently a typhoon hit us on Thursday morning. I had heard whisperings that it'd strike, but didn't know when or where. Well, it struck while I was sleeping, probably around 6 am. Surprisingly, or perhaps not so surprisingly, I slept through it for the most part. When the wind was at its strongest I did wake up because I was concerned something was going to either fly through my window and hit me (but I figured the bars would protect me haha) or large amounts of debris would shatter the building's glass doors. Neither occurred. I was too tired to be completely worried so I fell back asleep for another few hours. I spent the afternoon-evening at school and enjoyed the conversations about what was broken, what the kids saw, etc. Either they embellished a bit or their area was hit worse. The biggest concern was that one kid's computer broke. haha
Happy Weekend!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
We're Gonna be Friends
Day Two of teaching Memory English with Elementary and Middle school is over!!! Both yesterday and today I taught Memory English, which focused on Word Maps, Words in Context, Paraphrasing, Note-Taking, and the big finale of each class: the Critical Thinking Project. We have a lot to cover in 3 hours, and perhaps surprisingly it definitely takes all 3 hours to get anywhere.
After training, I expected students to be more advanced than what I have seen the past 2 days. So, it was kind of disappointing training left many of us with that impression. Maybe because it was the first 2 days with different kids each period I didn't get the responses I hope to get later in the term. Most of class is centered around discussion and reasoning, yet it is hard to do so with students don't want to talk! I do understand why they feel this way since they have already been in school for at least six hours, so another three or six is extremely exhausting. As I become better adjusted to these teaching methods and better understand these students, I hope to draw out more energy and excitement for them. It is difficult work for students, especially if their vocabulary is limited. One of my objectives for the coming weeks, other than encouraging more energy and participation, is louder volume. Some students mumble and I can hardly hear them. I feel like an old woman having to ask them to repeat themselves. haha I think this behavior also has to do with the regular school environment. I have not formed the impression that student opinion and voice is a big part of school hours. School is very rigorous. There is a CRCT-like test called the iBT students take that not only determines which middle schools, high schools, and colleges they will attend, but also their careers. One test, which can be 9 hours long, determines basically the next 30 years of their life. Talk about pressure!!! As a result, suicide is prevalent in South Korea. Japan and Korea have one of the higher numbers of suicide. Actually, yesterday the subway was shut down because of a jumper. The sub lines have glass sliding doors set up, which upon first glance appear to be for your safety, which they are, but more so to prevent jumpers.
Through the Critical Thinking Project student voice is more widely encouraged. The past two days students have created book covers about witches. My last class today was able to work on this project for a longer period of time than the other classes, mostly because at my error. I did not anticipate the lack of response or length to cover sections of our lesson. Again, time management will definitely need to improve as I become more accustomed to these students and teaching methods.
Some positives: LOVE my coworkers. I am actually very fortunate to be at this branch. 1) We all get along. The past 2 nights we've been out to dinner. They've also been very helpful to us newbies as we figure things out. Showing us a zillion shortcuts to our apartments, good things to eat, where to shop, ideas for teaching, etc. 2) They give dinner to us between the 2 classes. My branch is the only one that does this. It is privately owned so we're given more privileges. 3) Found out I'll have 6 days OFF around the middle of September due to the equivalent of Thanksgiving. Apparently the whole city shuts down sooo the 3 other trainees that I came with and I are trying to decide something fun and cheap we can do. 4) I live like 5 minutes from work, so no commuting!! That will definitely help save money.
Kids' personalities are also beginning to show through a bit. One girl always smiles at me, which of course makes me want to smile back. Another boy shared all about his travels through Europe, of course making me jealous. Oh, and during 2 truths and a lie I found out the boys apparently think girls cannot be drummers (my lie... but ohhh, such a dream) or soccer players (a truth). Well, come next class I'll just have to prove them wrong!!!
Simple but perfection.
We're Going to be Friends by The White Stripes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZGHTkmhxgQ
I'm sure I'm forgetting things I want to share, so if you have any questions about experiences, please ask!!!
After training, I expected students to be more advanced than what I have seen the past 2 days. So, it was kind of disappointing training left many of us with that impression. Maybe because it was the first 2 days with different kids each period I didn't get the responses I hope to get later in the term. Most of class is centered around discussion and reasoning, yet it is hard to do so with students don't want to talk! I do understand why they feel this way since they have already been in school for at least six hours, so another three or six is extremely exhausting. As I become better adjusted to these teaching methods and better understand these students, I hope to draw out more energy and excitement for them. It is difficult work for students, especially if their vocabulary is limited. One of my objectives for the coming weeks, other than encouraging more energy and participation, is louder volume. Some students mumble and I can hardly hear them. I feel like an old woman having to ask them to repeat themselves. haha I think this behavior also has to do with the regular school environment. I have not formed the impression that student opinion and voice is a big part of school hours. School is very rigorous. There is a CRCT-like test called the iBT students take that not only determines which middle schools, high schools, and colleges they will attend, but also their careers. One test, which can be 9 hours long, determines basically the next 30 years of their life. Talk about pressure!!! As a result, suicide is prevalent in South Korea. Japan and Korea have one of the higher numbers of suicide. Actually, yesterday the subway was shut down because of a jumper. The sub lines have glass sliding doors set up, which upon first glance appear to be for your safety, which they are, but more so to prevent jumpers.
Through the Critical Thinking Project student voice is more widely encouraged. The past two days students have created book covers about witches. My last class today was able to work on this project for a longer period of time than the other classes, mostly because at my error. I did not anticipate the lack of response or length to cover sections of our lesson. Again, time management will definitely need to improve as I become more accustomed to these students and teaching methods.
Some positives: LOVE my coworkers. I am actually very fortunate to be at this branch. 1) We all get along. The past 2 nights we've been out to dinner. They've also been very helpful to us newbies as we figure things out. Showing us a zillion shortcuts to our apartments, good things to eat, where to shop, ideas for teaching, etc. 2) They give dinner to us between the 2 classes. My branch is the only one that does this. It is privately owned so we're given more privileges. 3) Found out I'll have 6 days OFF around the middle of September due to the equivalent of Thanksgiving. Apparently the whole city shuts down sooo the 3 other trainees that I came with and I are trying to decide something fun and cheap we can do. 4) I live like 5 minutes from work, so no commuting!! That will definitely help save money.
Kids' personalities are also beginning to show through a bit. One girl always smiles at me, which of course makes me want to smile back. Another boy shared all about his travels through Europe, of course making me jealous. Oh, and during 2 truths and a lie I found out the boys apparently think girls cannot be drummers (my lie... but ohhh, such a dream) or soccer players (a truth). Well, come next class I'll just have to prove them wrong!!!
Simple but perfection.
We're Going to be Friends by The White Stripes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZGHTkmhxgQ
I'm sure I'm forgetting things I want to share, so if you have any questions about experiences, please ask!!!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Here It Is!
Short video of the apartment.
Also, if you need my address for any reason, facebook message me and I can get it to you! :)
Also, if you need my address for any reason, facebook message me and I can get it to you! :)
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Mr. Curiosity
Below are some quick photos I took when I arrived Saturday. Yes, that IS Bubble Spinner on the computer. I HAD to do something to keep me entertained until my apartment was ready. Hope to put up some photos to add color to the walls. I begin tomorrow. Cannot wait!!!! Nervous, but that's expected.
Today I settled more into my apartment moving things around. I thought the random plush chair in the kitchen area wouldn't fit through my door frame to place it in my room, but after much maneuvering it's now sitting in a less awkward place. haha Perhaps tomorrow morning I'll post a video for the grand tour!!
A wonderful song for all you curious ones. :)
Mr. Curiosity by Jason Mraz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtBwBcvrn1A
Today I settled more into my apartment moving things around. I thought the random plush chair in the kitchen area wouldn't fit through my door frame to place it in my room, but after much maneuvering it's now sitting in a less awkward place. haha Perhaps tomorrow morning I'll post a video for the grand tour!!
A wonderful song for all you curious ones. :)
Mr. Curiosity by Jason Mraz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtBwBcvrn1A
Friday, August 27, 2010
Golden Train
Whatcya gonna do on a Friday night? A time for the past 4 nights that were spent studying, memorizing and practicing? Whyyyy ride the sub to the giant mall called the CoEx. And what do you do there? Eat at Jackie Chan's restaurant. Yes. He has a restaurant. Who knew. What else? Go to the bookstore in hopes of finding the newly released third book from the Hunger Games series. And? Be approached by a young Korean pair asking to converse in English for their homework assignment. Fantastic! We talked about the TV shows they watched to learn English (Friends, Desperate Housewives, dramas). How big of a star Wentworth Miller from Prison Break is, which I found shocking but oh so wonderful. Even more interesting, they asked how we felt about the turmoil between North and South Korea. People at home seem more concerned than those here in Seoul. They said most people hope they can reunite and the threat doesn't seem nearly as big of a deal here.
Last part of the homework assignment? Get photos! So we thought we'd do it too. :)
Golden Train by Justin Nozuka
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2IoMOQkBx4
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Imagine (First Impressions)
Hello, all! My week of training is coming to an end much sooner than I expected. I prepared for a tedious, long week, but as Friday ends it hasn't nearly been as terrible as the initial orientation perhaps wanted the trainees to believe.
My first fears were that I'd be unable to pass Training since they do say it is very overwhelming with all of the information they throw at you in a short amount of time, as well as the amount of outside-class prepartion you need to do. While I have had less sleep than I'd like this week, and there has been a lot of information to comprehend and review, mock teaching and overall training has actually been quite enjoyable. I've realized that cohort certainly prepares you for much more than a United States classroom. Many of the ideas the company highlights and stresses is not far from some of the pedagogies studied at GCSU. Referring back to mock teaching, I'm fortunate to have had student teaching experience to help build off my teaching style and delivery of information.
Although you are expected to follow a set methodology, they do encourage personal style in the way that you teach it, and perhaps most importantly, student rapport. It has become evident to me through the discussions with my trainers that students in all countries experience the same feelings, behaviors, and expectations in class. You're going to have that "class clown" or "disruptive" student, while another might prefer to simply sit and listen along with the discussion without vocally participating. Students in the US and Korea want to feel as though their opinion matters. They want to feel as though their efforts are for a reason. And going along with student rapport, they want to feel loved, encouraged, and important.
In the few moments that I have been out of the training center, I've enjoyed observing Korean culture. I've mentioned this to a few friends, but I was first struck by the fashion. You always hear how trendy the Asian countries are, but I didn't know what to expect. Trendy might've been ridiculous modern style with loud colors, high-fashion hair styles, and so on. Instead, I see people of all ages, although most often between 15 - 35, with styles that you might see at Urban Outfitters, Mod Cloth, or at your local coffee shop in Milledgeville. Maybe even Jonas Brothers-style, though not nearly as tight of pants. The women are far braver than me to wear heels for any occasion -- dinner, walking downtown, riding the subway... The men are especially well put together. Nicely ironed shirts (bonus points from me if their sleeves are rolled 3/4 length), slightly tight pants (mostly the younger guys), and Italian-leather looking work shoes. The younger generation has the most wonderful hats. Fedoras. Knit caps. Braves hats.
Some tips I've picked up through observation and trial-and-error:
1) Always bring an umbrella. It's almost a staple of fashion. Perhaps this will only be a factor during certain seasons, but umbrellas are vital. They shield the sun (very few tans). They protect you from sun... or clouds.
2) Pack more than one pair of shoes. Although the women can handle walking everywhere in heels or flats with little sole support, I cannot. The subway is like a race in and of itself, so Vans are the way to go.
3) The (best?) way to find Korean restaurants is to a) follow the lights. Look for bright signs that catch your attention. Maybe one of them is leading you to a restaurant. b) Look for pictures with food that looks possibly appetizing... mainly so that you can point to it. c) Be willing to try something new. I'm learning to step out of my food comfort zone, and since food is cheap, it might be worth the risk.
4) While not a tip, I've noticed that very few people wear wedding rings. I don't know if this is just to avoid losing it on the subway, I've just happened to notice a lot of single people, or maybe it's not customary to wear wedding rings. I'm gonna have to Google it and find out...
5) Smile. Smiling and bowing gets you a long way if you can't speak the language. There are other ways to try to communicate until you do learn.
Tomorrow concludes training. I check-out of my hotel Saturday and will be transported to my campus to meet the director, and then my apartment! Teaching begins Monday.
In honor of a music festival going on this weekend in Gwangju, which hopefully I can check out, here's a song by The Beatles but covered by A Perfect Circle. This song's video is actually rather interesting considering the turmoil between the Koreas. Warning: Somewhat graphic due to war theme.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dunKAwRN3P8&ob=av2e
My first fears were that I'd be unable to pass Training since they do say it is very overwhelming with all of the information they throw at you in a short amount of time, as well as the amount of outside-class prepartion you need to do. While I have had less sleep than I'd like this week, and there has been a lot of information to comprehend and review, mock teaching and overall training has actually been quite enjoyable. I've realized that cohort certainly prepares you for much more than a United States classroom. Many of the ideas the company highlights and stresses is not far from some of the pedagogies studied at GCSU. Referring back to mock teaching, I'm fortunate to have had student teaching experience to help build off my teaching style and delivery of information.
Although you are expected to follow a set methodology, they do encourage personal style in the way that you teach it, and perhaps most importantly, student rapport. It has become evident to me through the discussions with my trainers that students in all countries experience the same feelings, behaviors, and expectations in class. You're going to have that "class clown" or "disruptive" student, while another might prefer to simply sit and listen along with the discussion without vocally participating. Students in the US and Korea want to feel as though their opinion matters. They want to feel as though their efforts are for a reason. And going along with student rapport, they want to feel loved, encouraged, and important.
In the few moments that I have been out of the training center, I've enjoyed observing Korean culture. I've mentioned this to a few friends, but I was first struck by the fashion. You always hear how trendy the Asian countries are, but I didn't know what to expect. Trendy might've been ridiculous modern style with loud colors, high-fashion hair styles, and so on. Instead, I see people of all ages, although most often between 15 - 35, with styles that you might see at Urban Outfitters, Mod Cloth, or at your local coffee shop in Milledgeville. Maybe even Jonas Brothers-style, though not nearly as tight of pants. The women are far braver than me to wear heels for any occasion -- dinner, walking downtown, riding the subway... The men are especially well put together. Nicely ironed shirts (bonus points from me if their sleeves are rolled 3/4 length), slightly tight pants (mostly the younger guys), and Italian-leather looking work shoes. The younger generation has the most wonderful hats. Fedoras. Knit caps. Braves hats.
Some tips I've picked up through observation and trial-and-error:
1) Always bring an umbrella. It's almost a staple of fashion. Perhaps this will only be a factor during certain seasons, but umbrellas are vital. They shield the sun (very few tans). They protect you from sun... or clouds.
2) Pack more than one pair of shoes. Although the women can handle walking everywhere in heels or flats with little sole support, I cannot. The subway is like a race in and of itself, so Vans are the way to go.
3) The (best?) way to find Korean restaurants is to a) follow the lights. Look for bright signs that catch your attention. Maybe one of them is leading you to a restaurant. b) Look for pictures with food that looks possibly appetizing... mainly so that you can point to it. c) Be willing to try something new. I'm learning to step out of my food comfort zone, and since food is cheap, it might be worth the risk.
4) While not a tip, I've noticed that very few people wear wedding rings. I don't know if this is just to avoid losing it on the subway, I've just happened to notice a lot of single people, or maybe it's not customary to wear wedding rings. I'm gonna have to Google it and find out...
5) Smile. Smiling and bowing gets you a long way if you can't speak the language. There are other ways to try to communicate until you do learn.
Tomorrow concludes training. I check-out of my hotel Saturday and will be transported to my campus to meet the director, and then my apartment! Teaching begins Monday.
In honor of a music festival going on this weekend in Gwangju, which hopefully I can check out, here's a song by The Beatles but covered by A Perfect Circle. This song's video is actually rather interesting considering the turmoil between the Koreas. Warning: Somewhat graphic due to war theme.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dunKAwRN3P8&ob=av2e
Monday, August 23, 2010
Photos of the Day
Books found at the bookstore. Notice that Twilight's covers are unique.
Seoul Medical Center where I had my blood drawn, x-rays & drug test. Whoo.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Across the Universe
Goooood afternoon from Seoul :) Although I suppose for most you're asleep... or should be. Ha
Plane ride went smoothly, other than having to change seats because the much needed TV in the seat in front of me stopped working midflight. Once we landed, I, along with some other ChungDahm trainees, took a bus to the City Air Terminal where the van hired by the company took us to our hotels.
Once we checked in and dropped off our luggage, the girl I met at the consulate and I walked around and went to the convenience store to buy some breakfast foods and water.
Slept until 10am-ish. Internet surfed. Then went grocery shopping with my roommate. Really interesting! First, it was a matter of figuring out prices to make sure we didn't pay ridiculous prices. Fruit is expensive, but I found some good-looking apples (haha!) that weren't too much. Second, it was trying to figure out what the photos of products were. It's definitely going to be an experience adjusting to and learning to cook the food. My mom will appreciate that... ;)
Until I learn more about Korean music, enjoy this cover of Across the Universe by Rufus Wainwright.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAe1lVDbLf0
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Another Week Goes By...
Hard to believe another week has come and gone. Not much has improved on the home front in terms of cleaning and organizing all of the things I brought home from college. Yes, yes. I've been home for two (or three) weeks... at least the floors are fairly walk-throughable now (family might beg to differ). Thursday is the day to cram all that I could possibly (hopefully?) need for a year in 2 checked suitcases and one carry-on, plus a backpack that shall hold the essentials -- laptop, a book or 2, pillow?, and toothbrush & paste. Maybe some face wash & make-up too since it will be a very, very long flight.
As you can see, sleep evades me. Pretty sure I haven't gone to bed at a decent time (aka before midnight) since I returned from Indiana a week and a half ago. I've had the same problem when I was in school, but more so nightmares about school. Example: before high school started I dreamt I couldn't go unless I returned all of my graded papers from 6th-8th grade, which of course was an impossible task. Terrifying dream.
Basically the nerves turn me into an insomniac. Quite pleasant. I just need to be more trusting in my faith and realize God has a plan. Nerves are normal. Something great is going to happen this year.
Note: I will be staying at this hotel until next Fridayish during training -- looks niceeee!
http://www.provista.co.kr/html/eng/fl/fl_010.asp
Be on the look out for some photos and/or video in the near future... And since my eyes are drooping too much to find a song I love (although Coldplay's Lovers in Japan just came to mind for semi-obvious reasons), anyone have suggestions?? Gotta use my iTunes giftcard. :) :)
As you can see, sleep evades me. Pretty sure I haven't gone to bed at a decent time (aka before midnight) since I returned from Indiana a week and a half ago. I've had the same problem when I was in school, but more so nightmares about school. Example: before high school started I dreamt I couldn't go unless I returned all of my graded papers from 6th-8th grade, which of course was an impossible task. Terrifying dream.
Basically the nerves turn me into an insomniac. Quite pleasant. I just need to be more trusting in my faith and realize God has a plan. Nerves are normal. Something great is going to happen this year.
Note: I will be staying at this hotel until next Fridayish during training -- looks niceeee!
http://www.provista.co.kr/html/eng/fl/fl_010.asp
Be on the look out for some photos and/or video in the near future... And since my eyes are drooping too much to find a song I love (although Coldplay's Lovers in Japan just came to mind for semi-obvious reasons), anyone have suggestions?? Gotta use my iTunes giftcard. :) :)
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Free Bird
Today was the day! AKA the day of my visa interview. I wasn't sure what to expect, but knew it must not be too bad if I already had a job and everything else was pretty much set. And I was right. I rode MARTA downtown, and sat for an hour (Thanks Lauren for telling me to leave at 12:30!!! :P) before the interview began at 3:00 pm.
Now, I won't say it was a waste of time... but really it was. I felt bad for my fellow group members of 6 who all came from other states (Florida, North Carolina & South Carolina) for a 30 minute interview. An interview which consisted of the guy looking at our papers and maybe asking a question here or there. The longest conversation I had with the guy was how to say my last name. hahaha Surprise, surprise!!
But on the plus side, I shall have my visa in hand after 11 am tomorrow when I return to the office to pick it up. Much easier and cheaper than to wait for it in the mail.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=np0solnL1X
Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Changes in Latitude Changes in Attitude
Thanks to Erica for providing this title via song. :)
As I'm gearing up for this trip many people have asked how I'm feeling about it all. For those who know me well, and maybe only kinda know me, you know how chill and go-with-the-flow type person I am. Sometimes I wonder if that's a good thing or bad thing. Mixed emotions is the answer. Excited. Scared. Nervous about the job. Curious. Disbelief.
Although I probably won't feel fully at ease until I'm there and somewhat adjusted, I received some great advice from a totally random person. He was actually trying to sell me stuff through The Arrival Store, a company that will have essential items (pillows / bedsheets, cell phone & plan, outlet converters) ready for me when I arrive to use at my apartment. But I ended up talking to this Scott fella for about 15 minutes about his time there, cell phones, and expectations. He offered this piece of advice: take the time to get to know some about the area, but arrive with eagerness to explore and just go with the flow. The best experiences I'll have are if my expectations are not set too high. I think I can manage that. Even if some expectations are not met, it'll be an experience no matter what.
I guess we'll find out if any of my attitudes change!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56nHBah7mdE
Changes in Latitude Changes in Attitude by Jimmy Buffet
As I'm gearing up for this trip many people have asked how I'm feeling about it all. For those who know me well, and maybe only kinda know me, you know how chill and go-with-the-flow type person I am. Sometimes I wonder if that's a good thing or bad thing. Mixed emotions is the answer. Excited. Scared. Nervous about the job. Curious. Disbelief.
Although I probably won't feel fully at ease until I'm there and somewhat adjusted, I received some great advice from a totally random person. He was actually trying to sell me stuff through The Arrival Store, a company that will have essential items (pillows / bedsheets, cell phone & plan, outlet converters) ready for me when I arrive to use at my apartment. But I ended up talking to this Scott fella for about 15 minutes about his time there, cell phones, and expectations. He offered this piece of advice: take the time to get to know some about the area, but arrive with eagerness to explore and just go with the flow. The best experiences I'll have are if my expectations are not set too high. I think I can manage that. Even if some expectations are not met, it'll be an experience no matter what.
I guess we'll find out if any of my attitudes change!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56nHBah7mdE
Changes in Latitude Changes in Attitude by Jimmy Buffet
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
The Countdown Begins...
The blog is finally here. I've been talking about it all summer, but finally got around to making it. Don't expect too many exciting posts at the moment.
My visa interview is scheduled for August 11. Never knew you had to interview for visas, but I guess since I want to work over there they gotta make sure I'm legit and have good intentions. Now just need to find a way to get my resume off my old laptop to bring with me (it's one of the required documents).
Until next time, enjoy this song by Never Shout Never.
listen. replay. love.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zm6i-C0p1Y
My visa interview is scheduled for August 11. Never knew you had to interview for visas, but I guess since I want to work over there they gotta make sure I'm legit and have good intentions. Now just need to find a way to get my resume off my old laptop to bring with me (it's one of the required documents).
Until next time, enjoy this song by Never Shout Never.
listen. replay. love.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zm6i-C0p1Y
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