One of the more peculiar segments of my weekly schedule in Korea occurs on Sundays at an unassuming elementary school called 서원초 (SeowonCho).  From 1:30-5pm, my time belongs to a group of Ajjeossi’s (older men, usually between 40 and 60 years old).  There are of course other people: my friend 명렬, college students and the …

I was carefully debating whether or not I should bring my suit back to Korea after being home this summer.  Going back and forth, weighing the pros and cons, I found it surprisingly difficult to make a decision.  My budding adult sensibilities were telling me that a suit is a must-have in a person’s wardrobe.  …

The title of this post might come as a shock to some, Mt. Kilimanjaro (the tallest mountain in Africa) being even more far-removed from home than my current residence in Korea.  Not only that, but just a year ago I underwent knee surgery and must seem crazy to attempt something like this. Given the stipulations …

As you may well be aware, I recently returned to Korea for my second go-around at teaching.  After living with a homestay family for the entire first year, I was ready to move out and attempt the bachelor life in my own single apartment.  By contract, only first-year teachers with the Fulbright program are required …