Talkshow with Xaviera Putri : What It Is Like Being Student In South Korea (Part 1/2)

Summary

In this episode of the 3our news show, the hosts delve into the experiences of two sisters, Savier Putri and Nabila Cindi, who received a full scholarship to attend a prestigious science high school in South Korea. They discuss the challenges of adjusting to a new educational system, the importance of identity, and the pressures of representing their culture as international students. The conversation also touches on the Korean education system's focus on early specialization, the intense study culture, and the opportunities for research and internships in university. The sisters share their insights on the Korean government's efforts to recruit foreign talent and the support for academic and research pursuits.

Takeaways

• 🎶 The hosts discuss a song from Nikki's album that is popular for its motivational beat, especially for workout warm-ups.
• 🏫 The conversation revolves around the experiences of two sisters, Savier Putri and Nabila Cindi, who share their journey of studying in a prestigious science high school in South Korea.
• 📚 The sisters received a full-ride scholarship to attend a specialized science high school in Korea, highlighting the competitive and academically rigorous environment they experienced.
• 🌍 The sisters faced cultural and identity challenges as international students, being part of a minority within the school, and having to represent their culture and religion.
• 👩‍🎓 The education system in Korea is described as highly specialized, with different high schools focusing on specific fields such as science, sports, and performing arts, allowing students to pursue their interests from a young age.
• 🏛️ The sisters attended a boarding school with a strict schedule, including self-study periods known as 'chupan', which contributed to the intense academic focus.
• 💼 The script mentions the importance of taking initiative and putting oneself out there to integrate into Korean society, which was crucial for the sisters' acceptance and success.
• 🎓 The Korean university experience is depicted as research-oriented, with opportunities for students to engage in research and internships from an early stage.
• 🌐 The Korean government is noted for its investment in education and research, offering merit-based scholarships and creating a supportive environment for academic growth.
• 🍲 The metaphor of kimchi, being sour but also healthy and beneficial, is used to describe the challenging but rewarding experience of studying abroad in Korea.

Q & A

What is the name of the book mentioned in the script?

The name of the book mentioned in the script is 'Kimchi Confessions'.

Why is the book called 'Kimchi Confessions'?

The book is called 'Kimchi Confessions' because it discusses the sour, yet beneficial experiences of the author while studying abroad in South Korea, similar to how kimchi is sour but healthy.

What is the significance of the song 'High School in Jakarta' in the script?

The song 'High School in Jakarta' is significant because it resonates with the speakers' experiences and shapes their strength and identity, much like their high school experiences in Jakarta.

Why did Savier Putri and Nabila Cindi go to South Korea for their high school education?

Savier Putri and Nabila Cindi went to South Korea for their high school education because they received a full-ride scholarship to attend one of the most prestigious science high schools in Korea.

What was unique about the high school they attended in South Korea?

The high school they attended in South Korea was unique because it was a science-focused school that accepted a limited number of international students, and they were among the few female students wearing the hijab.

How did the sisters adjust to the academic environment in South Korea?

The sisters adjusted to the academic environment by engaging in self-study times to catch up on homework and materials, and taking additional study sessions to keep up with their Korean peers.

What challenges did the sisters face in terms of identity while in South Korea?

The sisters faced challenges in terms of identity as they were young, female, international students wearing the hijab, and they felt the pressure of representing their community in a foreign environment.

How did the sisters integrate into Korean society?

The sisters integrated into Korean society by participating in club activities, interacting with Korean students both in and out of school, and taking the initiative to engage with the community.

What is 'chupan' in the context of the script?

In the context of the script, 'chupan' refers to the self-study time at their boarding school in South Korea, where students would study from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

How does the Korean education system differ from the one in Indonesia according to the sisters?

According to the sisters, the Korean education system differs in that it offers specialized high schools for different fields of interest, such as science, sports, and performing arts, and places a strong emphasis on early preparation and specialization.

What opportunities are available for students in South Korea regarding higher education and research?

In South Korea, students have opportunities to engage in research from a young age, with many universities offering research positions and internships, and companies participating in job fairs to provide industry experience.