Familial Reaction Part III

Kim(chi): So I officially applied to EPIK
Mom: What's that again?
Kim(chi): It's the Korea thing.
Mom: Oh, well I don't really want to talk about that. I don't know how I feel *mumble mumble* but it's your life *mutter mutter*
Kim(chi): Okay, I just wanted to let you know.

EPIK Application Update

So I heard back from the EPIK coordinators!
I submitted my application on Thursday August 8th, and got my confirmation email that next Monday. Not too shabby, EPIK!

On a sidenote I also received my final grades for the summer semester on Monday, and I did well so now I'm officially in my last semester of coursework ever. Ever. Unless I decide one day to be an idiot and go back for my Masters. :p

Back to my confirmation email. It is clearly a stock email that they use, but I certainly wouldn't expect that they personally write everyone so it was just as exciting. Here's what it said:

Hello EPIK Applicant,

Thank you for taking the time to apply for the Spring 2014 term (start dates in February with a few positions in March/April). As we are still busy wrapping up our current term, we will not process your application until the beginning of September. At that time we will notify you if you have been invited for an interview or not. Please note that because you applied early, your documents will be handled first when the time comes.

There are many people who pass the interview and are not able to become EPIK teachers. The reason for this is because they are not able to collect their documents in time. Please read the attached file thoroughly and visit the 'required documents' section of our website (www.epik.kr) to start preparing your documents now. Important note: The most time sensitive document is the criminal record check (CRC).  For this upcoming term, the CRC's should be no older than the beginning of August 2013. Should there be any changes with our policy for the upcoming Spring 2014 term, you will be informed of them during your interview.

You can join other applicants who are interested in the Spring 2014 term by visiting our Facebook group here: EPIK Spring 2014. Here you can ask questions to the EPIK Coordinators or other EPIK teachers. Additionally, follow us on Twitter or visit our YouTube channel for more information and updates directly from our office. 

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at epik@korea.kr with the subject line titled as 'Spring 2014 Inquiry'. Please do not respond to this email. We thank you for your patience and have a great day!

--
The EPIK Team

So I was invited to the EPIK facebook page for Spring applicants which made me feel all special, but mostly this email served as a kind of shock to the system that this is really happening. Or at least this is something that I'm really attempting to make happen. It's incredible because I plan and plan and plan, and when something starts taking shape it is just so surreal. 

I'm also putting the attached file from this email in it's own tab on the home page because I think it's a really nice comprehensive list over everything everyone needs. There are identical lists on their website but this one is in a handy word document so look over it if you're interested in the documentation that is going to be necessary. 

Inspirational Korean Picture of the day:

XOXO

Kim(chi)

Familial Reactions Part II

Me: So I've officially applied to EPIK
Brother: All my Army buddies are being deployed there.
Me: And?
Brother: Didja think maybe it might not be safe over there?
Me: I did, but now that I know your army friends are swarming in I feel much better. Thanks!

XOXO
Kim(chi)

My EPIK Application

Alright, then. Hey guys! I just spent this summer taking 5 classes so I could graduate in December which according to like..all calendars is 5 months away! Insane. Not that you care about me graduating or anything, but the closer I get to graduation the closer I get to EPIK, and so ipso facto more blog posts for you, and eventually video posts! But not until something exciting happens.
But wait. Did something exciting happen? Why yes, yes it did thank you for asking.

The EPIK applications for Spring 2014 are FINALLY out. Not to say that the EPIK team took a long time to get them out (actually they are out earlier than usual this year), but it's just that I've been waiting for SO LONG for 2014 to be here. Graduation. Check. EPIK application. CHECK.

                      EPIK announcing Spring Applications are being taken on Facebook!

I'm not going to write out the instructions when they are posted in a very easy to read idiot-proof word document on the EPIK page, but I make note of a few of the things that I had to actually think about.

1. Available interview time frame - Hopefully you would be cognizant enough to wonder if it should be in Korean Standard Time or Your Home Country Standard Time.
   Answer: Korean Standard Time. Get it right peoples.
2. Put your country code in front of your phone number! In my case it's 1 + ***-***-****
3. ALL your schools. Like...ALL of them. If you're an Army brat then becomes BFF's with the Insert Row option.
4. If you are still working at  your job put "Present"
5. If you're working on your TEFL ect. put "Pending" in the Issue Date
6. Don't lie on the self medical assessment. They're going to test you when you get there so you might as well save yourself the flight money, and just tell the truth.
7. Personal Essay: DAUNTING!!  I'm going to show you mine, but don't judge it! It's not as like...collegiate as the ones I read online. I wanted mine to seem more personal. That's a choice you make. Also: Don't copy my stuff guys. (As if it were worth copying)

We are interested in your ability to succeed as an ESL teacher in a public school in Korea. In the space below, please share with us your reasons for wanting to teach ESL in Korea, your educational philosophy and your thoughts on encountering cultural differences.

I have always loved immersing myself into other cultures. To me, there is nothing more fascinating than experiencing how different cultures live and thrive. I believe the only way to truly appreciate a culture is by planting yourself in the source of it. This is only one of my reasons for wanting to teach in Korea, but it might be the reason that has been with me the longest.

            My other reasons are small things that at a first glance might not seem extraordinary or particularly persuasive, but they stuck to me—like the way a child bows low to his grandparents or the art of a full Korean dinner with banchan every color of the rainbow. Unlike America, Korea is steeped in history and tradition, and these are things that I crave to be surrounded by.

            Ultimately though, my reason for wanting to come to Korea is to teach. I love English. I’ve loved English from the moment it was introduced to me as a discipline. The thought that I can teach my favorite subject while experiencing a different culture is remarkable to me. EPIK is one of the most unique and wonderful opportunities that I’ve ever come across, and every day since the moment I discovered the program has been spent dreaming, in part, of what life might be like. It is this curiosity and passion inside me which drives me.

            My opinion is that learning needs to be fun in order to be successful. It also needs to not feel like learning. Rote memorization has never been a successful language tool, and so I respect Korea for putting so much emphasis into authentic language education. Also, lessons taught in the classroom should bleed into other areas of the student’s life. A good teacher strives to create a lesson that the student is reminded of at dinner time or on their way home from school. On a larger scale, my belief is that in order for the individual to contribute to the success of the whole the individual must first be strong enough to work on the same level. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and I believe that a well-educated society is a strong society. As a whole they stand strong, and tall. Korea has become an economic powerhouse over the past few decades, and now they are striving to push themselves even further into the spotlight as they become a leader in the World Market. With the emphasis they place on Education, this will be a very smooth transition.

            Cultural differences or “culture shock” can be difficult for some, and I’m sure that given the opportunity to live abroad I would face the very same issues. The key to mastering cultural differences with grace and poise is all a matter of the mind. Expectations are the enemy of cultural exchange. It requires humility to recognize that there are many ways to live, and that none are better than the other. One must toss aside previous notions of what they believe to be true about a culture, and have an open mind to accept all that they will be faced with. It’s dangerous to assume that because you assimilate easily to changes at home that you will react similarly in a foreign country. It might sound silly to some, but I think it’s vital to enter into a foreign culture comfortable with the knowledge that you know nothing. With this mindset that everything that is new and different becomes a pleasant surprise.

          8. Lesson Plan: DOUBLE DAUNTING! I can't really help you out with this one. I suggest looking up lesson plan templates online, and picking a subject matter which interests you so it will be easier to write about. Make the conclusion to you Lesson Plan strong! It's the last thing they read on your application!

So I have everything done! Including glowing recommendations from my previous bosses and I'm so ready to send this thing and start getting that exciting waiting feeling when...

Oh...
...
I forgot that I don't have a professional photo for the top of the application.

In a desperate attempt to finally be done I scour my Social Media searching for anything that will work, but apparently I don't think I look good unless half of my face is cropped or I'm not wearing sleeves. Psychoanalyze that!

 I could totally get away with using this one right??

XOXO
Kim(chi)

Korean Dramas Pulling At My Heartstrings

When I was in middle and high school there was nothing I loved more than burying my nose in a love story. Not those awkward ones with Fabio on the cover, but the ones in the Young Adult section. First love, coming of age, opposites attract. I loved it. I was that girl walking and reading at the same time down the hallways, using my perepherals to navigate.

WELL. Let me tell you, Korean dramas take me back to that innocent time when I couldn't possibly think about going to bed when the two main characters were just THIS close to having their first kiss, and when it finally happened I was there on my bed giggling and kicking my legs about like...well...a sixteen year old girl. Where has that innocence gone in America? Are our girls so jaded that they don't get excited by the awkward first brush of hands on the street or the first kiss? Tell me, where are the butterflies! It's as if we don't get the giddy feeling until the characters have sex in America. That shouldn't be the case. And this is why Korea drama's have stolen my heart.

They remind me of a time years ago when all I needed to feel the giddy excitement of love was a first kiss.

I've only watched 3 Korean Dramas so far: Faith, City Hunter, and Heartstrings, but already I can see that there are some common themes.

1.  There is almost always some kind of thematic symbol of the main characters feelings. (ex. coffee, flower)
2. In two of the shows there was a "you have to be my slave" element. (Not like that, dirty mind!) For instance, one will lose a bet and the other has to do chores for the other. (or fetch them coffee as is the case in City Hunter and Heartstrings)
3. The main characters keep their feelings extremely close to their chest until
4. The confession (which is the most giggly, leg kickingly, adorable part)
5. The guys are all EXTREMELY protective. (Feminists beware)
6. The first: touch (skinship), handhold, hug, and kiss are a BIG DEAL
7. The kiss is as. far. as. it. goes. (as far as I can tell at this point)
8. Little notes are often left to let the other know how they feel (subtly)
9. Guys arent afraid to be lovey dovey
10. ^ but they're still manly!
    EXAMPLE A:

It's all very, very young adult novel. And I LOVE IT.

I'm currently watching Heartstrings which is seriously just adorable, and it's so innocent! (so far)

I wish that there were some American shows that held up the same traditional ideals. Even Disney and Nick are going down the tube.

Here are some cute Korean Drama pictures :D

XOXO
Kim(chi)!

Familial Reactions Part I

Sister: So...where are you going?
Kim(chi)!: Jeju
Sister: God Bless you
Kim(chi)!: That's not funny
Sister: It was kind of funny.

Public Holidays

I was at the store this morning around 10AM and in line in front of me was a woman with a cart full of beer and meat. Can mean only one thing. Memorial Day weekend. So I thought now might be a good time to talk about South Korean vs. US Holidays.

I expect that most countries (with a national army) celebrate Memorial Day. I wanted to look into what other holidays the US shares with South Korea.

Interestingly enough it turns out that The United States doesn't actually have national holidays. I guess it never occurred to me because I've been in school where my holidays are allowed to be dictated by government. However, it is against Constitutional law to enforce a national holiday. Essentially, the government here cannot force a movie theatre chain to close on Christmas day. But my understanding is that in Korea there are national holidays in which most everything is closed. There are exceptions I'm sure, but from what I've read most businesses observe the holidays. And if you're not in a business within the service industry you are most definitely given the holiday.

Since the United States doesn't have official national holidays, for comparative purposes I've decided to use all of the data on which banks and government offices are closed.

South Korea                                             United States  : federal holidays

New Year's Day                                        New Year's Day
Korean New Year's (3 days)                  Martin Luther King Jr Day
Independence Day                                  Presidents Day
Children's Day                                          Memorial Day
Buddha's Birthday                                   Independence Day
Memorial Day                                           Labor Day
Liberation Day                                          Columbus Day
Midautumn Festival (3 days)                 Veterans Day
National Foundation Day                        Thanksgiving (2 days)
Hangul Day                                                Christmas (2 days)
Christmas

15 days off!                                                  12 days off!

Children's Day

Harvest Festival

Now. Let's go over what you're likely to get in terms of vacation time as a teacher in Korea. First, get rid of the expectation that you get summer vacation like teachers in America get. It's not like that. The kids do get a long vacation, and perhaps many of the teachers as well, but remember you are not a bona fide korean teacher. You are a GET (Guest English Teacher), and you don't qualify for the same time off as Korean teachers. You will likely get: 8 days off paid vacation in the summer and 10 days off paid vacation in the winter in addition to the national holidays listed above. That's over a month! I can understand if you're already a teacher and have become accustomed to 2.5 months off every summer, but if your like me (a working stiff/recent graduate) you should be pleased as punch to get this much paid vacation. I've NEVER gotten PAID vacation. Well except Christmas. All in all, if you have reasonable expectation, it's a pretty sweet deal.

But remember! Not all contracts are the same. READ YOUR CONTRACT!!

....and have a lovely holiday weekend.

XOXO
Kim(chi)!

                            

EPIK(Public School) vs. Private Hogwans

Private hagwons are often likely to be located amidst other businesses

A public school is more likely to be similar to the ones were used to in North America

Reasons you should NOT teach at a hagwon.

The possibility of:

1. Erratic hours and split shifts. ew.
2. Only one week of paid vacation.
3. NO paid sick days.
4.  Less time to prep for classes. Teaching back to back with only 5 minute breaks.
5. Changes in your "contract"
6. Not getting your check on time.
7. Not getting a check at all.
8. Your hagwon going out of business and you being in a foreign land with no job.
9. Not having a good outline of course objectives/not being trained 
10. Not having a governmental program to protect your rights as a foreign worker.

I know what looks like. It looks like I'm trying to get back at hagwons for stealing my boyfriend. But the truth of the matter is I've formed these opinions based on so much blog and forum reading as well as watching all the "teaching in South Korea" YouTube videos I can get my hands on. What it means is that I pay attention to others experiences and express them here all at once. It wouldn't be helpful to only discuss my own experiences because it's not enough data to be useful. I'm starting to bore myself. 

Anyway, keep in mind that all hagwons and public schools are different. I'm sure we could find horror stories and praises for both.

Still...the "only one week off" thing? That's just fact.

*Public schools give you 18 days. And up to three weeks of paid sick days (not consecutive)*

You'll discover what feels right to you, and the experience whether good or bad will change you as a person. Hopefully for the better ;)

XOXO

Kim(chi)!

Recruitment Agencies vs. Direct Application

So you've made the decision to apply to EPIK.

The Gentleman gives you a hearty thumbs up.
(Psy is not an Aggie. Psy does not gig'em...)

Now, you have two options when deciding how to go about the application process. You can go through a recruiter like footprints or gone2korea or you can apply directly through EPIK. Here's my take on the decision. To me, it comes down to a few simple questions.

Do you have a five year plan?
Do you know your drivers license number by heart?
Have you ever color coded. Anything?
Does the smell of an office supply store make you smile?

If the answer is yes to any of the questions you should probably definitely apply directly to EPIK.
The fact of the matter is, EPIK prefers that you apply directly. It's right there at the top of the application site in red bold underlined font.

Applicants who apply directly through us will have their applications processed quickly and be granted an interview father than those who applied through other venues.

Like that. ^

So if you're like me and you've already read the application instructions, benefits, and sample contract pages twice you'll probably do just fine to apply directly to the source. Not to mention that EPIK has a ridiculously informative website with absolutely no engRish mistakes. I kept an eye out. This blog will be a somewhat decent guide, but please don't let it be your only resource.

NOW. On the other hand. If you're a big picture person. (hey the world needs em) and you rarely get excited by logistics and planning than I do recommend you using a recruitment agency. They will ensure that no t's go uncrossed, and will help you in the entire process. There will also be a more personal element than applying directly. (Consulate websites are just so cozy!) #kidding #sarcasm #IDontEvenHaveATwitter

As for which agency is the best I don't have any opinion on that. I haven't looked into them at ALL. I've heard that footprints is good from other peoples blogs. To be safe I would try to look up reviews on the agency (not located on their website). The internet is a harsh and truthful place, y'all. Take the time to do some research.

Oh, but another point that I wanted to make on applying directly to EPIK is that if you do choose to go with an agency you can't go trying to ask EPIK for help with any questions you might have. They will direct you to your agency. For example,

Hi EPIK,
I am so excited to potentially work with you this coming fall! I decided to got through a recruiting company (I chose Reach To Teach) while applying to make sure everything was in order and fit all of the popper guidelines. I applied about three weeks ago, and I was wondering when I might expect to hear if I have been granted an interview?

Epik Coordinator Hello Amanda~As you've applied through a recruiter, all of your questions and inquiries must be sent to your recruiter directly. Only applicants who applied directly to EPIK can receive information and updates directly from our office. As you've applied through a recruiter, it is your recruiter's job to assist you throughout the process. Thank you for your understanding and best of luck!

Firstly, TYPO! That's literally my worst fear (okay not my worst) when talking to the EPIK people. I guess I'm weirdly under the impression that if I don't spell everything popperly they'll somehow put me on some kind of blacklist. I'm sure that it's not like that at all, and goodness knows I'm constantly making typo's.

Second, See???! If you go to the EPIK facebook you'll see like a million questions from applicants, and nearly every single one gets a direct response within a few hours. My question was anwered super quickly.

Kim Whittle

I am hoping to enter during the Spring 2014 intake and was wondering when (generally) EPIK begins accepting applications.

Epik Coordinator Hello Kim~You'll need to visit our website often (www.epik.go.kr) later this summer to check for updates regarding the Spring 2014 term. As we only work term by term, we do not have information regarding future terms at this time (until it gets much closer). Usually its around the end of August that we begin accepting applications, however, it could be earlier this year, so please check back often around July/August. Thank you!

No, THANK YOU, Epik Coordinator!

Summary: If you're a planner, plan. If you're not, pay someone else to.

XOXO

Kim(chi!)



Housing Options For EPIK Teachers

Are you super loaded? (with money, not drugs) If you are than you should fight for a housing subsidy when you get to South Korea. Let me break it down. (If you are my soul mate you are thinking of Yo Gabba Gabba right now)

In the past, EPIK would give teachers the choice between free (EPIK chosen) housing or a 400,000₩ subsidy to put towards an apartment of your choosing. However, according to the new wording on the EPIK website it looks as if they are either not allowing teachers to choose the stipend option or are highly discouraging it.

"If housing is unavailable, a monthly rent subsidy of 400,000₩ will be provided by the host POE, in lieu of free furnished housing" -EPIK.GO.KR

I've heard that POE's (Providential Office(s) of Education) dislike giving out the subsidy because in the event a teacher must leave the apartment they are required to find housing for them. Now, I'm not sure why all of a sudden a teacher would be kicked out of housing. Perhaps, they worry that our plans will fall through. If this is the case they have very little time to find a different place for you. Still, I have yet to read anything stating that they have changed the rule allowing foreign teachers to choose the subsidy. So perhaps, they adjusted the wording in the hopes that we will not realize we have the choice. If you can afford to pay a few extra hundred (dollars) a month, and can afford to live at a hotel in your city while you look for a place I would look into that option.

This is not to say that the housing they provide is bad. I wouldn't know. I haven't been there yet. But from what I've read on others experiences, the apartment you are provided is kind of a toss up. Some are really nice in highrise buildings with keyless entry. Some are in tiny rundown buildings with no A/C and bugs. (know that you can request a new apartment, but it can take weeks or months to be moved) You won't know anything about your living situation until you get there so there's not really any backing out at that point. You've signed that you'll take what you get (at least at first).

Lets get into the average apartment that city-dwelling EPIK teachers get. This is by no means exhaustive, but I thought I'd compile the dozens of YouTube apartment tour video's I've watched for you.

??

The reason this apartment is so huge.

travelingbeauty       

Yes, it's because I live out in the countryside. The apartments are cheaper so you tend to get a bigger one. Unfortunately the bath tub doesn't work like a bathtub we are used to haha. Even if you fill it up the water will slowly leave so you can't take a nice bath, but it is nice to take a shower in. :)

 

 

SEOUL

 

This is an example of a really nice average sized apartment in a metro city like Seoul. It's really lovely actually. Looks new.

 

DAEGU

 

This is a great example of the difference between an apartment that the POE chooses for you and one you pick for yourself. Notice in the description how it says she's in her second year. It's much easier to find an apartment when you already live in the city so many EPIKers who decide to stay on a second year also decide to move to a nicer apartment. As far as I know they have not changed the rule that allows teachers to do this. (Look at that amazing arch over the bed!! <3 <3!!!)

 

Noticable Differences from American Apartments

 

1. The Bathroom!
          The bathrooms are often also called wet rooms. This is because everything in the space is waterproof. The shower head often resides just above the toilet, which sits in the corner, with a sink and mirror just to the other side of the toilet. A drain sits to the side of the toilet between the toilet and sink or in the middle of the floor for the shower water to drain. This is the most typical bathroom found in studio apartments in metro-cities in South Korea.
   
2. The Fridge!
          It's tiny! Like the one you had in college. You might get lucky and get a full sized one like these peoples ^, but most of the ones I've seen are mini or at least much thinner than what we're used to. Downside, no more buying in bulk. Upside, no more bulk food getting all rotted and gross because it disappeared in the back of the fridge behind that fuzzy thing that you think might actually be self actualizing.
   
3. Washer (Dryer?)
           Don't even get me STARTED on the washer/dryer all-in-one unit. Why don't they have more of these in America!? Most of us have never even heard of it or realize it's possible. Capitalism conspiracy. Humph. Not all studios are going to come with one of these nifty units. Most, in fact, will just have a washer and you'll have a drying rack to hang your clothes out on. No more just out of the dryer jeans that don't fit right because the fabric's all tight and compressed! #Muffintop #Brightside #IDontEvenHaveATwitter
   
4. Only One or Two Burners
           Meh. Whatever. That's fine. Who cooks on more than two burners at a time anyway? One burner...now, actually, that might be an issue.
   
5. Heated Floors
           HEATED FLOORS. ballin.
   
 
 
 
That's all I got for now folks. If you have any questions comment away. I'll do my best to answer what I know and figure out what I don't.
 
XOXO
Kim(chi!)
 
 
 
 

 

Why I love EPIK and South Korea

Besides the obvious benefit of being in closer proximity to this beautiful specimen of man,

South Korea boasts one of the more well established and organized programs for teaching English abroad. The most notable benefits include:

1. Free (sub-standard?) Housing (holla!)
2. Reimbursed airfare. (15+ hour flights ain't cheap y'all)
3. Generous Salary starting at 1,800,000₩ ($1,615.73USD) per month
4. Did I mention that Lee Min Ho ^ lives there? #Gorgeous #Swoon #IDontEvenHaveATwitter

I will most certainly go into more detail on these fantastic (too good to be true?) benefits in later posts. Honestly, initially I landed on South Korea because it seemed to pay well, was established, and with a bachelors in (anything) I qualified for it. BUT THEN, as is my nature, I started doing research on the program and subsequently the country. South Korea is the shiz, y'all.

Reasons I (now) love South Korea:

1. KPOP!!

I couldn't care LESS about the fact that I have no idea what they're saying. Somehow it manages to get stuck in my head anyway. Also, I have a thing for syncronized dancing. Don't judge me. It's freaking CUTE! And can I just comment on how refreshing it is to see a girl group not be a bunch of skanks. I mean, yes, they are sexy (some videos more than others), but none of it is even remotely inappropriate compared to American music. And seriously, is there ANYTHING cuter than a Korean woman winking. The answer is yes. KOREAN RAP.

 

SO COLORFUL! AHHH! <3 <3

 



        2. KOREAN DRAMA'S!

 

 

 

You may notice a theme in my preference of Korean drama's, but he's just soo DREAMY. Lee Min Ho is fantastic. In fact, I haven't really even given any other Korean stars a chance. I should look into that. The great thing about Korean Drama's is that they are like novellas. They last for generally only one season. 24ish episodes. No reason to drag it out. Also, the romantic tension is incredible. Notice how I said romantic tension. Not sexual tension. Because there is no sex. At least none that I've seen yet. It all leads up to a kiss, y'all. A really really great kiss. Does anyone else here miss the good ole days? 

 

      3. KOREAN FOODS!!

 

 It's art in my tummy, y'all.

And spicytimedelcious!

 



 

 

 Overall, I love South Korea because in South Korea it's okay, encouraged even, to dress and act with some imagination. At least while you're young. Now I may have to retract this later once I get there if it turns out to be gray and boring and run by robots, but for now at least my impression is that, though it IS a homogeneous country with a stringent standard of beauty and education (more about that later), it is also a place where you can be weird. And childish. And drink a lot on the streets. No PI's over there! (not that I get PI tickets or anything...)

I hope you found this remotely informative or entertaining. If not, leave. Go on. We don't want you here.

XOXO
Kim(chi!)

Welcome to Inconsistency!

Hello everyone, welcome to adventuresininconsistency! Some people find comfort in familiarity, but I think that living life spontaneously and inconsistently is the only way I'll ever be happy. Thus, the need for Adventure In Inconsistency! I'm Kimmy, a 24 year old girl living in Denton, Texas. 

A few years ago it would've been inconceivable for me to stay here long enough to get a degree, but here I am, only 7 months away from a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism. My current passion is South Korea, and I plan on utilizing the EPIK (English Program in Korea) to live in this wonderful country for at least one year. This blog is for other wanderers who want to follow me through the process from pre-application to settling into my (tiny) apartment in (hopefully) Jeju. I'll try and be as specific as I can so all of your questions (at least the ones I can think of) will be answered in this one location.

There's entertainment to be had here so I hope you join me for the ride.

XOXO
Kim(chi!)