Siyeon Kim
Hi! My name is Siyeon Kim, and I’m a student from Busan, South Korea, currently studying at the University of Glasgow. Growing up in Busan meant being surrounded by the sea and mountains, with the sound of waves always close by. Walking along the beach was part of my daily routine, and I took pride in living in a city known for its beautiful coastline. While Busan offers breathtaking views, it doesn’t have many flat parks, which is one of the reasons I quickly fell in love with Glasgow’s many green spaces.
Coming to Glasgow as an international student has been an unforgettable experience. One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is meeting people from all over the world. The diversity here has given me countless opportunities to share my culture and learn about others. Studying in Glasgow also gave me the chance to travel to places I had only dreamed of before—Ayr’s peaceful seaside, London’s bustling streets, and even European cities like Barcelona, Paris, and Vienna. Every trip introduced me to new people, each living unique and fascinating lives.
Before coming here, I considered myself someone who loved warmth, spending time by the sea, and enjoying hobbies like archery. But my time in Glasgow encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. I joined the University’s ski club and learned to snowboard for the first time—a challenge I never thought I would take on! I also tried trampoline fitness, an activity far from anything I had done before. These experiences helped me break free from the mindset that I had to stick to what I already knew. I realised that the world is much bigger than I imagined, filled with endless possibilities.
Glasgow itself has made my journey even more special. The friendly atmosphere, welcoming people, and supportive student community made me feel at home from the very beginning. Spending Christmas with a Scottish friend’s family was a highlight, especially when I experienced the fun tradition of Christmas crackers. I also noticed how much Glaswegians love socialising, with pubs always full of people enjoying drinks like beer, cider, and whisky.
One of my favorite things about living in Glasgow is the abundance of parks. Whether I need a break from studying or just want to relax, parks like the Botanic Gardens and Kelvingrove Park are my go-to places. Surrounded by greenery, playful squirrels, and friendly dogs, I find comfort and peace. Even the animals here seem as welcoming as the people.
Being an international student means more than just studying in a new place. It means challenging yourself, letting go of what you thought you knew, and discovering new sides of yourself. My time in Glasgow has helped me grow into a more open-minded and adventurous person, and I’m grateful for every moment I’ve spent here. I can’t wait to see what new experiences await me next!