Buddhism In Korea

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I first thought about teaching abroad a few months ago. I was studying at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas working on finishing my last semester. I was graduating that December with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration, International Business. However, I was unsure of what to do afterwards. I hadn’t applied for any jobs or received any job offers. I was worried that I’d graduate and have nothing to do. I was twenty years old about to earn a degree with no plan.

I received an email about an opportunity to become an English teaching assistant in France. I had studied in Lyon, France the semester before and was dying for the opportunity to go back. I missed the food, the people, and the culture. Everything…except the cold
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Instead, it is more common to work in groups unlike in the US which is an individualistic society. The focus more on relationships and think in long-term. They are a family orientated society that work together to better improve their people and society as a whole. When Koreans marry it is a symbol of two families being united, rather than two individuals.
Buddhism is the main religion in Korea. The teachings of Buddhism are very present in Korean culture and are reflected in the lifestyle, culture, and arts. The country has many statues, monuments, and temples. Buddhism teachings are a philosophy that enlists practices for a way of life. It explains the purpose of life and its practices lead to true happiness. This is important in the Korean culture. Koreans try to live a moral life and are mindful of their actions. Over time they develop wisdom and understanding of life’s teachings.
Education is extremely precedent in Korean culture. Teachings are based more on memorization and repetition. Students are often shy and do not question their teacher or ask for help in fear of losing face. It’s important to maintain discipline in the classroom as well as respect. The students need to see that you are excited and enthusiastic about what you are
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Social norms and customs are not the same. Though Korea is modernizing it is still a very conservative and family-orientated country. Having been raised in a Latin- Catholic and conservative household I can relate to many of the norms of South Korea. I understand the importance of family as it plays a major role in my life. I respect my elders and hardly question them. It wasn’t until I began my studies at UNLV did I begin to question some of the things I have been thought. Born in the United States, I see myself as an equal and know that I am no better and no worse than anyone based on my race, gender, income, and or education. I have lived a conservative lifestyle for many years, though recently as I have gotten older I have enjoyed expressing my freedom through the clothes I wear, how I vote, and how I speak. I am sure I can easily adapt to the hierarchy in Korea, though it will be tough to know my place in

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