I chose to come to Ohio State because the department for my major, Korean Language and Literature, has so many opportunities — research, study abroad and cultural events. Besides a major in Korean Language and Literature, I am pursuing a minor in International Studies, specializing in International Relations and Diplomacy, and am on the Pre-Med track.

As the first international student from India majoring in Korean Language and Literature at Ohio State (and potentially in the United States), I enjoyed the opportunity to research topics I am personally interested in. My literature studies research focuses on India-Korea relations and culture in Korean and English Languages.

My long-term dream is to publish a book about my research. From the wide range of literature available in the university’s libraries to the academic support from professors at Ohio State, I was able to take my first step towards my dream as an international undergraduate student. At Ohio State, you can truly research any topic; the sky is your limit!

There are so many international students. It was amazing to find a community where I could talk to so many people from different backgrounds.

While there have been many memorable experiences at Ohio State, some of my favorites include the trips I have had the opportunity to participate in. These include study abroad programs in the United Kingdom and South Korea, visits to the United Nations Headquarters in New York, trips to explore different U.S. states and their history, and opportunities to explore the city of Columbus.

I have represented Ohio State at the United Nations Headquarters twice and have led two Korean cultural organizations in India for over a decade. I also started the first registered Korean Cultural Society in India, which now has over 2,000 members.

The physical space of Ohio State was humongous and overwhelming at first, but as I explored, I saw how beautiful it is with so many different buildings and architectural styles. Thompson Library has everything a student needs — printers, computers, endless books, and even a café. I love accessing books there for both textbooks and general reading.

The three things I love about Ohio State are:

1. Opportunities to explore! My favorite are the trips organized by the Office of International Affairs, which will make you feel at home as you connect with Columbus, the large international student community, and other cities in the United States of America.

2. Community, Ohio State has a vibrant campus community with many clubs and organizations that allow students to grow both academically and personally.

3. The city of Columbus offers many fun activities, such as cultural festivals, concerts, and sporting events, that keep students engaged and motivated. It is a place where people are very kind and helpful. You feel happy to be part of a city that’s both hustling and calm.