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#Became more focused on myself #Experience across the United States, international friends #Time to discover my true self
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For me, this cross-country trip in the U.S. was a time to truly be myself. I had a blast without caring what others thought, and it was a valuable experience that helped me focus more on myself and find the direction I want my life to take moving forward.
A special cross-country trip in the U.S. with young people from around the world Choi Hye Won, Gap Year Student (23, University Student) / 4-week Korea GapYear |
# I chose the U.S. trip I’ve wanted to take since I was young.
Hello, I’m Choi Hye Won, 23, who will be entering my final year of university this year!
My younger sibling was going to the U.S. for language studies, and I’ve always wanted to live abroad for a while. I felt so left out when my sibling went, so I decided to plan a long-term trip with the money I had saved since childhood. That’s when I discovered the gap year program and chose the U.S. trip I had wanted to take since I was young.
* For Choi Hye Won, who wanted new experiences and challenging activities, customized 1:1 personal missions that challenged old thinking and offered new experiences and challenges were provided daily, along with a gap year notebook to reflect and plan for the future.
# Aside from it being my first time, I don't think I had any other major concerns.
This was my first long trip, so I was worried, but I had read so many good reviews and heard that it was safe, so aside from it being my first time, I don't think I had any other major concerns.
Before leaving, I used the checklist provided by the Gap Year program and ticked off each item. I also asked people who had gone on long trips for advice as I prepared.
# I think this was the first time in my life I could truly be myself.
As soon as I stepped out, I realized that people really don’t care about what others think. No one cares about other people’s clothes, appearance, or actions. They just do what they like, and it was so impressive to me. Over time, I started focusing entirely on myself too. Especially in Korea, where there's so much focus on appearance and what others think, I used to always worry about my looks and really hated it when people commented on them. This was the first time in my life I could truly be myself.
Before going, I thought I would just relax and have fun without thinking much, but it turned out to be a much more valuable time than I expected.
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I met 50 people from 5 different countries locally, and it was such a precious connection. Everyone was so kind, and they knew how to have fun. We had an incredibly fun time, and as I said, we didn't care about anyone else and just had the time of our lives. Our guide was so nice, fun, and we got along so well that we’re still in touch through a group chat. It was truly an amazing experience with great people!
# Daily Routine While Abroad
When we got in the car, the itinerary for the day was announced, and on the way to the next city, we either watched a movie or listened to music. We stopped at a rest area once or twice, and before arriving at the hotel, we received the schedule for that city, which included details like whether dinner was included and whether it was a group activity or free time. We spent our free time as we liked, either hanging out with friends or sightseeing, and then moved to the next city according to the schedule.
# After the Gap Year
After the gap year, I became more focused on myself, and it was a time when I realized what I truly need moving forward.
Lastly, what I want to say to those who are going to take a gap year is if you have an open mind and make an effort to start conversations and become friends, you'll have the best time of your life!
# My Recommended Places
- Karaoke Bar in New Orleans
: It was definitely the most fun bar, singing and dancing with everyone, I can't even describe how much fun it was. Singing all night and having pizza at dawn is the best thing in the world.
- Memphis
: I didn't know there was so much to see in Memphis, but it's a place you shouldn't miss from start to finish. Be sure to visit Sun Studio, and while the Rock & Soul Museum might not have much to see, if you're interested, you might want to check it out as the staff there is good looking.
# My Gap Year Preparation Tips!
- Language
Since there are a lot of Australians, learning some Australian slang can be helpful. Also, if you prepare some information about Korean history in English, it will be easier to explain. Since all activities and explanations are in English, it's a good idea to do some basic English study before departure.
- Accommodation
The accommodation was all in hotels, which was great.
- Essentials
It's a good idea to bring an emergency charger and insurance as basic preparations. Clothing should be packed lightly as the weather varies in each city, and it's best to buy clothes locally.
My Gap Year
Experience ★★★★★
: I made unforgettable experiences and friends that I couldn't have made anywhere else.
Learning ★★★★★
: It was a time for me to learn more about myself.
Environment ★★★★★
: It was a time to experience the entire environment of the United States.
Safety ★★★★★
: It is extremely safe, and it’s the perfect trip for solo female travelers.
Leisure ★★★★★
: Honestly, if you go at the legal drinking age, it’s the best month to party and have fun.
Capturing the growth journeys
of our participants.
