Jackson Thompson Blewden

Jackson Thompson Blewden

Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia, Korean Language Study Abroad

Introduction

Hi everyone! I’m Jackson, one of the University of Auckland students spending three months studying Korean at Korea University in Seoul!

Although I was born and grew up in New Zealand, I’ve always been fascinated with the world around me and have had a deep desire to travel. I started learning Italian, Chinese, and finally Korean – which is how I was lucky enough to receive this opportunity to spend some time in South Korea!

I’ve just finished four years at the University of Auckland studying a conjoint degree (Bachelor of Arts and Global Studies), majoring in Communications and International Relations and Business. I’ve learnt so much about myself along the way, but I know that what I end up doing later in life will have a strong international focus.

On this trip, I can’t wait to make close friends with people from all kinds of backgrounds, expand my worldview, and get the opportunity to truly settle into local life, all while studying at the famous Korea University. Of course, I also am taking every opportunity to use and develop my Korean abilities, which is another aspect of this journey I’m incredibly excited about!

I still can’t believe I’m here and really on this journey – I’m so thankful to have received this opportunity. It’s going to be a perfect way to finish off my degree and close this chapter of my university life.

  • Dorm life and settling into a daily routine

    As our first week of freedom drew to a close and our impending classes loomed on the horizon, I began to settle into a more regular routine. The reality of classes beginning daily at 9am and my insistence on receiving a nightly eight hours of sleep meant I began to closely watch my bedtime in…Continue…

  • The first week, first impressions (and my first proper snow!)

    As I write this, I’ve been in South Korea for almost two weeks! Before my arrival, I had anticipated that it might take some time to settle in, but funnily, I already have a vague feeling that I’ve been living here for months. Suddenly moving countries and plunging headfirst into a new environment has the…Continue…