Work, Culture, and Workplace Culture

  Breaking into a new culture in the workplace is not an easy task. Every job, and office, and company, or any group for that matter always operates under different social expectations even in our home countries. If I started a new teaching job in America it would be much of the same, but easier…

Culture Shock in Korea

(Warning, this is more just a stream of consciousness that found its way out of my brain rather than a cohesive thought.)   In a very bizarre turn of events my culture shock in Korea hasn't been from the food or the language. Most of what has happened, has happened somewhat according to my expectations. I…

First Day of Teaching Middle School in South Korea

I did it. I officially survived my first week of teaching middle school in South Korea. Luckily for me that week was only two full days, but regardless I survived. I’m sitting here on Friday night writing this, thoroughly exhausted, and feeling very happy. I’m not on a mountain top, and I’m not in a…

Jeonju Hanok Village

전주한옥마을 Today was the "Field Trip" day of orientation. (Yes it was actually called a field trip. We are all adults with at least a bachelor's degree, and we now have a curfew. Everyone feels like they're at summer camp. And are kind of ready to leave.) That's a bit harsh I suppose. We have all…

Thoughts From EPIK Orientation

  Well, we are about a week into orientation and about a week away from my first day of teaching. Which is both terrifying and exciting all at the same time. The biggest news I have is that I found out I will be teaching middle school! This is, in the same way, both terrifying…

Korea Day 6: Last day in Seoul

This was my last full day in Seoul before heading off to Daejeon for EPIK orientation. I woke up to a text from one of my Korean friends that her mom had offered to take me to the airport the next morning and that I could stay with them for the night as well. My biggest…