2017 RECIPIENT OF THE GLADYS B. M'60 AND ROBERT E. DUNN FUND FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDY
Mitchell Brown '18, a recent graduate with a degree in psychology, had always been fascinated with Korean culture. Thanks to the generosity of the Dunns, Mitchell was given a life-changing opportunity to study abroad in Seoul, South Korea last year.
I thoroughly enjoyed every moment I spent in South Korea. From visiting palaces to watching street performances throughout the streets of the capital city, I can definitely say there was never a dull moment while I was living in Seoul. I met some of the nicest people who I know will be lifelong friends. Living there allowed me to gain new perspectives on values that differ from my own and to adopt them into my own life.
In Korean culture, it is important to put others before yourself and work together as a community. I was set up with Korean buddies who treated me as if I was family and showed nothing but care for me and for others. It made me realize how powerful we as a society can be by simply showing genuine care and love towards each other. It also helped me appreciate the people that I have in my life more than ever and taught me to be respectful of others—even if they may have different values than me. I am so thankful for receiving the Gladys B. M'60 and Robert E. Dunn Fund for International Study because not only did it give me the chance to experience a new culture and travel, but it also gave me the chance to become a better person and show care to others no matter who they are or what they believe.
Living in South Korea has taught me, as an American, to focus more on how I can help contribute to the community. In America, we tend to go about our own lives and forget that there are communities out there that are in need. I've learned to be more thoughtful of those who have it worse than I do and do my best to help others in any way I can. I come from a small town in Connecticut where not much goes on and people tend to stay in their own mindset. Choosing to live in a city in a different country was a big leap for me as I have never experienced a city, aside from visiting New York once. It helped me learn that there are so many people in the world with different backgrounds and values and that it is important to be open and respectful to those who are different from myself.
My experience in South Korea was so great that I am planning to teach English there for a year starting this coming fall. I hope to learn even more about Korean culture by being there as a