Anna Spencer

University of Kent student Anna Spencer.

"I embraced Korean culture in as many ways as I could"

The year abroad option is between your second and final years. You can choose from a great range of destinations across the world, from Spain to Singapore. It’s an amazing life experience and a great way to boost your CV. Anna Spencer spent a year in South Korea.

I grew up near New Malden, which is like the Korean capital of the UK and that really gave me a nudge to travel and experience different Asian cultures. So when the chance came to study in South Korea for a year, I grabbed it. 

I studied at Korea University, where teaching is in English. I enjoyed being able to study literature and media alongside my business topics. One day I’d like to get into book publishing, so this was a great bonus for me! 

I’d say Korea is one of the safest places I’ve ever been to as a solo female traveller. If I was out at night, and unsure about where I was, the locals would come and help me. They’re so friendly! 

I embraced Korean culture in as many ways as I could, but mostly through the cuisine. I tried it all, from Dakbal (fried chicken feet!) in the Hof bars to my favourite dish, Doenjang Jjigae which is a hearty, soy-based soup often served with seafood. I enjoyed learning culinary etiquette too, some things weren’t eaten as I first thought! 

One of my favourite memories is my trip to Busan. We went during the cherry blossom season when, like in Japan, the blossom falls from the sky like raindrops. My year abroad was exciting, rewarding and fulfilling. It gave me a new perspective on life and I’m a lot more resilient now. I got everything out of it that I wanted to and more.