After months of excitement and anticipation, our summer program, “Themes in Sport and Its Global Impact,” finally began today. We met at the hotel around 3:30 p.m. and jumped right into orientation.
Jaeseong from WorldStrides walked us through cultural norms, health and safety, and what to expect during our time in Korea. It was definitely a reality check. Reading about cultural etiquette beforehand is one thing, but hearing someone explain it right before you step out into the city makes it feel much more immediate. It reminded me that this trip is not just about seeing new places, but also about learning how to move through them respectfully and thoughtfully.
Professor Jamie then laid out the three main goals for the trip: (1) be safe, be smart, and get back to the States; (2) learn about sport and globalization; and (3) have fun — with the explicit note that goals two and three carry equal weight. That framing really captured what this program is supposed to be. It is not just a study trip, nor is it just a vacation. The goal is to take the academic side seriously while also fully experiencing the places we are lucky enough to visit.
After orientation, Jaeseong took us on a walk through the surrounding neighborhood. We explored some of the smaller streets nearby, which gave us a great first look at Seoul beyond just the main roads and hotel area. One of our first stops was Jogyesa Temple, which was especially memorable because it was decorated for Buddha’s Birthday. The colorful lanterns, bright decorations, and peaceful atmosphere made the temple feel alive. It was a perfect first cultural site to visit in Korea.
One thing I noticed almost immediately was how clean everything was. The streets, alleys, and public spaces all felt incredibly well-kept. Even though the city was busy, it still felt organized and safe.
For dinner, we went out for KBBQ, and it did not disappoint. The food was tasty, filling, and a great first meal to share as a group. Afterward, a few of us walked around a bit more before heading back to the hotel. The jet lag was starting to hit, but it was still cool to see how full the streets were even on a Tuesday night. There was so much energy around us, yet walking through the city still felt completely safe.
Overall, it was an extremely strong first impression of Seoul. The first day already captured what this trip is supposed to be about: learning academically, experiencing culture firsthand, and having fun along the way. I am beyond excited for everything ahead.
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