This Nomadic Life

I had just graduated college and was finally free from the heavy burden of classes and also looking to start anew far away from my hometown. My significant other and I decided to go to Korea together. I landed a teaching position at Geumsaem Elementary in Busan, South Korea as their Native English teacher. I left America as soon as my contract was finalized and signed, but much to my dismay, my significant other would not be making the journey with me. Looking back, maybe it was divine intervention, but nevertheless, he stayed stateside and I was headed for South Korea. Initially vexed by the whole ordeal, I sat wondering what was to become of my relationship while I was away. Little did I know, my life was about to change in the most positive way. As soon as I landed in Busan I was met with so much hospitality from my co-teacher Lee Sung Un and her family. We became friends instantaneously. We often talked of our culture differences and exchanged language lessons. Our differences are what made us close and an amazing team in the classroom. I had Korean friends that I met from the school I taught at, but not long after I arrived, I met many expats just like me. I can proudly say that I made many lifelong friends by putting myself in the position to know people and experience new things. I have friends all over the world that I am extremely grateful for. My relationship eventually dissipated, but my new life in Korea taught me ways to improve my life, live frugally, enjoy good food with great friends, and release any preconceived notions I had about traveling alone and embarking on new adventures. Many firsts occurred for me in Korea; my first time tasting sashimi, hookah, experiencing the FIFA World Cup, and the joy of taking jump photos. I did not extend my contract another year due to family reasons but I crave the next time I can journey back to Korea, the land that changed my life forever for the better. "Aja, aja, Fighting!"