By Narumol Rodruksa,
Narumol Rodruksa is a master’s degree student in the Development and Sustainability Program at the School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD), Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand. She participated in an exchange program at Seoul National University (SNU) in the Republic Korea from 1st September 2024 to 31st January 2025.
Her focus during the exchange was on Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, a field that is closely aligned with her academic interests and career aspirations.
In this blog, Narumol shares her experiences and insights from her exchange journey.
The decision to join this exchange program was driven by my desire to expand my academic knowledge, gain international experience, and immerse myself in a new cultural and educational environment. Looking back, I can confidently say that this was one of the most enriching and memorable experiences of my academic journey.
The classes I attended at SNU were highly engaging and provided a wealth of knowledge in my areas of interest. The professors were not only experts in their fields but also approachable and willing to engage in meaningful discussions. Their teaching methods encouraged critical thinking and active participation, which helped me gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The courses helped me bridge theoretical concepts with real-world applications through case studies and group discussions. This approach significantly enhanced my understanding and equipped me with practical tools to address complex development issues.
Additionally, I participated in seminars where experts from academia, government, and international organizations shared their experiences and research findings. These seminars were invaluable in keeping me updated on the latest trends and challenges in agricultural economics and rural development.
Beyond academics, the exchange program offered numerous opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities. One of the highlights was participating in a winter trip organized by International Affairs of Seoul National University. The trip allowed us to explore korean culture.
The trip also provided an excellent opportunity to interact with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. We shared our perspectives on development issues, exchanged ideas, and even formed friendships that I believe will last a lifetime.
Living in South Korea was a unique cultural experience. The vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality of the people made my stay incredibly enjoyable. I particularly enjoyed exploring Seoul, with its mix of modernity and tradition. Visiting historical sites such as Moka Museum, making pottery in a traditional village in Icheon and experiencing cultural festivals were highlights of my stay.
The exchange program also encouraged cultural exchange within the academic setting. SNU organized events where international students could showcase their cultures, and I had the chance to represent Thailand. Sharing Thai food, traditional clothing, and cultural practices with my peers was a proud and joyful moment.
This exchange program was not just an academic journey but also a significant period of personal growth. Living in a foreign country challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, adapt to a new environment, and develop resilience. I learned to navigate language barriers, manage my time effectively, and balance academic responsibilities while exploring a new culture. These experiences have made me more confident, independent, and open-minded.
Furthermore, the program strengthened my ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural setting. Group projects and discussions with students from different countries helped me understand diverse perspectives and improved my communication and teamwork skills.
Participating in the exchange program at Seoul National University was an unforgettable experience that greatly enriched my academic and personal life. The knowledge and skills I gained, along with the friendships and memories I made, will continue to shape my future endeavors.
I am deeply grateful to AIT, SNU, and everyone who supported me throughout this journey. I strongly encourage other students to consider participating in exchange programs, as they provide a unique opportunity for academic, cultural, and personal growth.
This experience has not only strengthened my passion for development and sustainability but also reaffirmed my commitment to contributing to rural development and improving livelihoods through innovative and inclusive approaches. I look forward to applying what I have learned during this exchange program to my studies and future career.
