Navigating Seoul: Rebecca Rowe’s Journey with CRCC Asia
Rebecca Rowe, a student from Durham University in the UK, shares her enriching CRCC Asia internship experience in Seoul, South Korea in 2024. Through cultural immersion, professional growth, and forging lasting connections, Rebecca reflects on how her internship shaped her career aspirations and personal growth.
- Introduction and Background
Hello! I’m Rebecca, and I’m from Greater Manchester in the UK. I studied at Durham University, where I discovered the CRCC Asia internship program. It was advertised as a fully funded scholarship-style internship, and knowing about it in advance, I took a one-year minor in Korean language to prepare for the opportunity in case I succeeded in the application process. - Motivation for Joining CRCC Asia and Choosing Seoul
I was drawn to the program because it offered a fully funded opportunity to work in one of the most advanced countries in the world for science and technology, which aligns with my career focus. The chance to experience Korea firsthand and prepare through learning the language motivated me to apply. I wanted to ensure I could fully immerse myself in the experience and make the most of the opportunity. - Internship Experience
My role focused heavily on ensuring the global version of my CEO’s website was accurately translated into English. I also had the opportunity to attend numerous university nursing conferences with him, assisting in promoting the brand. These tasks allowed me to develop my skills in professional communication and gain insight into Korea’s advanced healthcare and technology sectors. - Challenges and Overcoming Them
I quickly realized I am terrible with directions, and despite Seoul being one of the easiest cities to navigate, I still struggled. Thankfully, Tess from CRCC Asia assisted me on my first day since my company was one of the furthest away and required multiple buses rather than the more straightforward subway. Her help was invaluable, and I’d recommend continuing this level of support for new interns—it made a big difference! - Long-Term Career Impact
This experience gave me a ‘foot in the door’ and the opportunity to work in one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. It has inspired me to consider working in Korea in the future and has solidified my interest in pursuing a career that intersects global healthcare and technology. - Living in Seoul
I enjoy being in new spaces and am not afraid of a challenge, so the transition wasn’t overwhelming, especially since I had some understanding of the language. I loved the change in diet and fully embraced the Korean lifestyle. Living in Seoul allowed me to experience a new way of life while pushing myself to grow both personally and professionally. - Memorable Experiences Outside Work
My favorite moments were planning trips to various places in Korea with friends and meeting others in the CRCC Asia program. Exploring the country and bonding with fellow interns made my experience even more special. - Lasting Connections
I still communicate with most of the people from my university who also interned in the program, even though I didn’t know them before. I also keep in touch with my CEO from Seoul via LinkedIn, which has been valuable for maintaining professional connections. - Advice for Future Interns
Learn some of the language! Don’t be ignorant and try to make yourself useful. Korean companies have a very hardworking culture, so go above and beyond in your role while also making time to enjoy yourself. Plan activities and explore the country—it’s all part of the experience. - Final Reflections
Looking back, I hope there will be longer programs available for students in the UK, perhaps three months, to establish a deeper impact within the company and allow more time to settle in before returning home. Networking events and post-internship support, like emails and LinkedIn groups, would also be beneficial for people like me who want to work in Korea again. If these already exist, advertising them more actively would be fantastic.
Rebecca’s story is a testament to the value of preparation, cultural immersion, and professional growth. Her time in Seoul not only helped her develop skills in a global setting but also deepened her appreciation for the Korean work ethic and culture, inspiring her to pursue a future career in Korea.