 |
| University of Utah Asia Campus located in Songdo, Incheon / Courtesy of University of Utah Asia Campus |
By Lee Hyo-jin
Many students find it difficult to plan for studying overseas amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. For them, an opportunity to stay here and obtain a global academic experience could be an excellent alternative.
The University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC), located in the port city of Incheon west of Seoul, suits that goal, says Brian Byun, the school's assistant dean of admissions.
The Asia campus was established in 2014. The University of Utah is a research-oriented university with a 170-year history originating from the United States.
Situated in Incheon Global Campus (IGC), the country's first shared campus of leading foreign universities, the UAC offers diverse academic environments and interactions with world-class faculty, according to Byun.
"More students see the Asia Campus as a great alternative to studying abroad without sacrificing their education. Studying here is more affordable compared to studying in the U.S., and they can also develop a global mindset by experiencing both the Asia Campus and Salt Lake City Campus," Byun told The Korea Times in a recent email interview.
 |
| Brian Byun, assistant dean of admissions at the University of Utah Asia Campus / Courtesy of University of Utah Asia Campus |
Despite the coronavirus pandemic which has made it increasingly difficult for many universities to attract students from around the world, the UAC saw its largest total enrollment since its establishment for the fall 2021 semester.
Byun attributed the achievement to the growing popularity not only among Korean students, but also among international students who are attracted by the unique opportunity to earn a U.S. degree while living Korea.
"About 20 percent of our students are from eight different countries. With the increase in global recognition of Korean media and culture, we believe there is growing interest in living and experiencing Korea."
He added, "We are able to provide both cultural and educational experiences to our international students in a safe and affordable environment."
Byun also explained that the international students who have experienced the Asia campus serve as global ambassadors when they return to their home countries, helping the university connect with more students from around the world.
He also highlighted that achievements of an alumni and former faculty at the Asia Campus, Lee Isaac Chung, and his movie "Minari" have further increased the popularity of the Film and Media Arts program, which helped in the overall increase in the enrollment number.
In 2021, the UAC added two new programs ― Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering ― which are rapidly becoming one of the popular courses at the college due to the positive job market prospects for graduates.
The university is currently receiving applications for the spring 2022 semester for seven undergraduate majors: Film and Media Arts, Communication, Psychology, Urban Ecology, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Electrical Engineering. The application period runs until Jan. 28.
Byun shared some tips for prospective students, saying, "Try to put some effort into writing a personal statement to show your interest in joining the campus. Although personal statements are optional documents, we recommend submitting an essay to demonstrate that you are really interested in studying here."
He also advised them to submit all required documents as soon as possible, as the admission is rolling-based.
"The earlier you apply, you not only receive the result faster but can be eligible to apply for our New Horizon and Opportunity scholarships as well," he said.
