The Post interviewed Cho Minuk, a student majoring in Political Science & Diplomacy and currently an exchange student at MU. He will tell us more about MU. Let’s listen to him.

What are the advantages?
 The good thing about studying abroad in Thailand, especially at MU, is that you can improve your English ability as well as learn Thai. This is largely because a lot of foreign students are coming from countries whose native language is English. Moreover, Mahidol University International College (MUIC) gives all its lectures in English. It is worth pointing out that there are only a few Koreans in MU, about 20 in total, as compared to higher numbers at other Thai universities. To sum up, we can say that studying at MU has the same effect as studying abroad in America. In addition, international students at MU are to be offered a three-semester a year nearly 2 months for each semester with 2-3 week vacations in between. Conceivably, this is for students who want to enroll in several classes, but also have the time to travel around Thailand during their break. Since MU is situated very near to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, and Pattaya beach, it is quite easy to go for an excursion.

Are there any disadvantages?
 Among other things, I had great difficulty in adapting myself to new circumstances in Thailand - particularly the weather and food. It is extremely warm here. There is certainly a danger of catching skin ailments, such as pimples, in the hottest months - March to May (He made this remark with a wry smile on his face). Things, however, become more tolerable, even refreshing, as time goes by. With regard to food: at first it is a unique experience, but after a while the taste can be a bit off-putting. Maybe this has to do with the fragrant Thai spices. Anyhow, I was soon tired of Thai food and started to buy Kimchi at Koreatown.

Money does matter!
 MU requires students to pay 3000 THB (about 120,000 KRW) per single credit in addition to a basic tuition fee of 20,000 THB. Also, the extent of tuition fee varies according to the number of courses you sign up for. To illustrate, I paid 68,000 THB for this semester, registering for 16 credits. Besides, the tuition with 70% discount must be paid to Dongguk University. When it comes to the cost of living, it averages about 18,000 THB a month, including housing costs.

Tips & Advice
 Many people still consider it odd to study abroad in Thailand. It is, however, a generally accepted truth that Thailand has gone international these days, and that there are many occasions or places where English can be used. Also, it might be fun to learn Thai through making friends. I think it might be a good idea if you take a Thai language course for one year. Last but not least, adopting a positive attitude is what makes possible to study in other countries. If you keep a positive attitude, eventually you will achieve many things: learning foreign languages, taking interesting courses etc.

              By Yun Sang-young, Post Reporter

Yun Sang-young, Post Reporter  letterbee@dongguk.edu

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