My name is Serenity; I'm one of the students preparing to study Mobile Communications of the World in Korea this summer. I'd like to share why this opportunity is important to me. 

I have always admired Korean culture, an interest that was piqued when I was younger and studying early East Asian civilization. It has been further fueled by my studies in communications, traditional music, and the Korean language. My first obstacle in determining how to pursue this interest was that I had no specific direction. For a time, it felt as though no clear path was available. That is, until Dr. Kang presented us with this great opportunity to study abroad in Seoul Korea. This program began with 100 students, but the number slowly dwindled as hurdles began to appear before us, the greatest of all being the costs. Despite the setbacks, I know that for those of us left, our determination is stronger than ever. We look forward to starting class in Seoul with Dr. Kang more than anything; we’re eager to learn in country and from someone with such great credentials.

Through this program, I hope to learn about the impact of mobile communication, especially in an electronically advanced South Korea, as well as experience a new and beautiful culture firsthand. Most importantly, I hope to solidify my future and confidently walk the path to a greater and successful me. I thank UTSA, Dr. Kang, and everyone who has helped and contributed for making our goals and dreams this much closer.  We appreciate your help and ask that you continue to share our project page with others to help get us closer to our goal.

Thank you very much!

Serenity & the Mobile Communications Team 

There are some photos from the trip (so far!) posted on the We Are UTSA Facebook page. Thank you for supporting these students on their journey!

https://www.facebook.com/WeAreUTSA/posts/275961145910885

At the time I announced my proposal of study abroad in Korea, over 100 UTSA students were excited about this opportunity and eager to make the trip to learn about mobile technology and Korean culture. The challenge they faced, however, was “cost.” Due to financial burden, over 95 percent of the students had to give up their dream and only two students are now able to go on the trip. Even these two students have had to apply for loans to pay for the program. Despite these challenges, nothing could diminish their eagerness to make this trip happen. Through this trip, the students will get to experience advanced mobile media in addition to Korean culture for the first time in UTSA history.

We are excited to announce that thanks to your support we have met our goal—and still have 2 days left! Any additional funds raised will directly contribute to these student’s expenses.  Since you’ve already demonstrated your support by investing in our project, we would really appreciate your help with getting the word out that every gift will make a big difference for UTSA, San Antonio, and South Texas. This is a new and exciting opportunity—we’re glad to have you be a part of it with us.

Thank you so much for your generosity, 

Seok Kang, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

President, Korean American Communication Association