In less than two months, thirty KOICA-KDI School Fellows will embark on a new phase of their lives and return to their respective countries at the end of January 2013, with an additional feather on their caps—a completion certificate from the KDI School, proof that they survived three rigorous semesters of grueling lectures, exams, presentations and other what-have-yous.

For Andrew Prakash, the chance to study in Korea was a remarkable. “I am so excited to apply and practice what I have learned in KDI School in my office, the Ministry of Development Planning and Aid Coordination.”  Ashoka Jayasundara from Sri Lanka echoes similar thoughts as he plans to share his acquired knowledge in KDI School with fellow government executives at the Department of Labor.  “If not for this chance given to me by KOICA, I would not have this wonderful and unforgettable experience of living and learning in South Korea.”

“I tried my very best not to be overwhelmed with the workload and requirements of the courses, and the field trips organized by the school gave me the opportunity to unwind from my classes,” shares Amra Uth from Cambodia.  Hoang Huong Minh Ngoc from Vietnam agrees with Amra, “The KFRS in August provided me with a balanced experience of the Miracle on the Han River. The industrial visits and cultural tours included in the KFRS ably supplemented the School courses, and I have learned to appreciate more South Korea’s rapid modernization and economic growth.”

On the other hand, Stilson Muhwezi looks forward to going back to Uganda after more than a year away from home.  Upon his arrival in Seoul last January 2012, he started his daily countdown; this was the first occasion in his life to be separated for the longest time from his family.  Stilson has positive words regarding his experience in Korea, “Aside from my KDI School professors and friends, I will miss the efficient transportation system of Korea, especially the subway.  How I wish we could replicate this in my country.”

This writer, who is also a recipient of KOICA’s Fellowship in KDI School, will not only miss the “fastest internet in the world” but also the friendships she has cultivated over the past year, both with Korean and international students, KDI School professors and staff-members, and Korean friends she has met outside school.  “I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to KOICA and KDI School for bestowing on me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and breathe Korea for a year, to learn and experience Korean education for a year, and to depart Korea with a sense of belonging and attachment that will forever be engraved in my heart.  I will surely be back in my adopted country, South Korea, soon.”

By Maria Charmaine D. Guevara (MDP 2012, Philippines)