A GREENFIELD student has enjoyed a seven-week trip of a life-time to South Korea to take part in an English teaching programme.
Mark Barrow, 20, a former Saddleworth School and Oldham Sixth Form College student, is currently at Bangor University studying History with Journalism.
He travelled to Seoul to take part in the University Summer Programme over the summer and was based at Dankook University.
The programme saw Mark teach conversational English to Korean university students, as well as taking academic classes in Korean history and culture.
The trip also gave Mark the chance to enjoy a range of Korean activities and excursions, with the highlight a visit to the DMZ, the 2.5mile demilitarised border separating North and South Korea.
After returning from Korea, Mark said: “It was a brilliant experience and I am really glad I did it.
“Before the trip I didn’t know what to expect, but I didn’t have anything to worry about. I made friends with people from all over the world.
‘’The teaching side of things went very well. I’ve never wanted to be a teacher, but I enjoyed getting to know my students, and the lessons were always entertaining!
‘My favourite part was visiting the border between North and South Korea. It was fascinating to walk around what is now the most militarised border in the world, and to get a sense of the stark differences between both Koreas.
“I would urge all young people to take part in a programme like this, if they get the chance.”
Out of 25 Bangor University students who applied for the programme, Mark was one of just 10 successful candidates.
The trip was largely funded by Bangor and Dankook University, with Mark’s flights and accommodation at university dorms paid for.
University students from a range of English-speaking countries, including America and Canada, take part in the summer programme each year.
It is supported by the South Korean government, which encourages its citizens to learn foreign languages, especially English.
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