Faculty Mentor Name
Marie Lee
Faculty Mentor Department
Department of Art, Media, Performance and Design
Research or Creativity Area
Humanities & Arts
Abstract
As a first-generation Mexican-American student, studying abroad in Seoul through the Gilman Scholarship was transformative. This experience inspired In My Seoul Illustrative Series, a visual storytelling project encouraging underrepresented students to pursue international education.
The series illustrates meaningful moments from my journey: cherry blossoms I’d dreamed of seeing, the playful Line Friends bunny statue in Hongdae, and Korean cuisine—each piece blending my heritage with Seoul’s vibrant culture. Through art, I aim to make study abroad relatable for first-gen and minority students, showcasing how design can foster cultural exchange.
Goals include inspiring students, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and celebrating personal connections. Success will be measured by engagement and whether it motivates others to explore study abroad.
This project is both a reflection of my growth and a call to action. By sharing my story, I hope to break down barriers and show how international education can broaden perspectives. Studying abroad wasn’t just an academic milestone—it was a lesson in resilience, curiosity, and the beauty of embracing the unfamiliar.
Location
Reynolds Gallery and Art Building Hallways
Start Date
10-4-2025 6:00 PM
End Date
9-5-2025 8:00 PM
In My Seoul
Reynolds Gallery and Art Building Hallways
As a first-generation Mexican-American student, studying abroad in Seoul through the Gilman Scholarship was transformative. This experience inspired In My Seoul Illustrative Series, a visual storytelling project encouraging underrepresented students to pursue international education.
The series illustrates meaningful moments from my journey: cherry blossoms I’d dreamed of seeing, the playful Line Friends bunny statue in Hongdae, and Korean cuisine—each piece blending my heritage with Seoul’s vibrant culture. Through art, I aim to make study abroad relatable for first-gen and minority students, showcasing how design can foster cultural exchange.
Goals include inspiring students, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and celebrating personal connections. Success will be measured by engagement and whether it motivates others to explore study abroad.
This project is both a reflection of my growth and a call to action. By sharing my story, I hope to break down barriers and show how international education can broaden perspectives. Studying abroad wasn’t just an academic milestone—it was a lesson in resilience, curiosity, and the beauty of embracing the unfamiliar.
Comments
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