As promised, I am going to write a list of the things I will miss about Korea. Which, actually, as this has only been 3 months, maybe I should call it, "The Top 12 Great First Impressions Provided by Korea"?
1. My students
I know, gag me with a spoon, but I love how competitive they are. I have one class who treats the critical thinking project like they are guarding state secrets. They get so competitive - even going out of their way during the post-presentation discussion to argue why theirs is the best. I also like talking with my older, more fluent students - they understand some of the cultural differences, so we're able to talk more about abstract concepts, and it's so amazing how smart they are.
2. The food
Just when I think everything is how-would-you-like-your-bulgogi-and-rice-and-red-pepper-paste-arranged, I eat something that's absolutely fantastic that...just can't happen in the states. Like my mistaken-not-really-bulgogi-dapbap. And kimbap. And kimchi mandu. I feel that in America, they'd find some way to deep fry both and just ruin them..
3. The foreigners
Now before you, "What?!" this one, let me explain.. Korea is a place where you form connections with people just because they happen to speak English, and I've found that I've become really good friends with people who I wouldn't have hung out with at home. That sounds a bit backhanded, so I'm going to clarify that I am so excited that being this minority has given me the chance to meet all of them. I've definitely learned a lot about myself and branched out with the person that I am (stop me before this gets too Hallmark).
4. Lotte
Yeah, had to do a u-turn after that last one =p. I love just wandering around Lotte and people watching. It's a lot like being at Target, but different - mostly because I don't spend the insane amount of money (because I'm not a Korean size in anything =p). I love the combinations of things they put together as sales, too - like the cream cheese and chapstick bundle from last week. It's such a neat combination of eastern and western cultures, too - like even though it is the Korean version of a Super Target, there's still a bit of that at-the-marketplace culture, with the workers trying to get you to buy something, or show you something, or help you choose an item.
5. The fashion
Again, a shallow idea that runs a bit deeper. I love the way Koreans - both men and women - dress. There's something about it that is insanely fashionable, but still tasteful - a concept that I think we're lacking in the US. I love that I haven't had to tell a preteen male to pull up his pants - something that I had to say at least twenty times a day while teaching in America. I love that the girls don't put their developing cleavage on display. I love that everyone dresses constantly to make an impression - there's no way a site like "People of E-Mart" could exist. But, they do all of this without sacrificing the art of looking good. America's Next Top Model is starting to scrape the bottom with it's overseas trips (Hawaii, anyone?) - Seoul would be such a fantastic destination. But, then we'd have Tyra Banks here. Not sure how I'd feel about that one...
6. The efficiency
I was talking about my students with this one - Koreans just make everything easy. Sometimes, I feel like America goes out of it's way to make things complicated just because they can. In class, I referenced the sloped conveyer-belt-people-mover at the back of Lotte so that you can take your cart upstairs without having to push it up some ramp. I'm sure that those exist in America, but not in any stores I visited. I'm sure after I post this, I'll think of some fantastic example - so think of the Lotte one as a place-holder =p
7. The Korean boys
I don't think an explanation is necessary =p
8. Indecision corner and restaurant alley
Every night when we go out to dinner, we always head to the same spot, then stand in a circle and do the, "Okay, where are we going to eat tonight?" Eventually, Aaron will look at one of us and say, "______, it's your special day - where do you want to eat?" and we all echo with, "Yeah, it's your special day..". We always end up at one of the same four places, and I always order the same thing, but for some reason, it doesn't seem repetitive (at least not to me).
9. Kimchi at pork-bone-soup and that one place I went that Aaron knows the name of
My first week in Korea, the coworkers took me to this place that served only pork bone soup - literally, soup with a big pork bone in it. I wasn't a big fan - it was kinda oily, and I had a hard time picking the meat pieces off of the bone. However, that place had some of the *best* kimchi I've ever had, and have since been on a hunt to find some that I like just as much but at a restaurant that served....not pork bone soup. I found it! But I have no clue what the place is called! I went there at like 3 in the morning with the owners of Underground (who, by the way, are completely awesome and the sweetest people on the planet) and was served....I have no clue what it was, but it was good. And, looking back, I really should've eaten more kimchi..
10. Pickled radishes!
Thinking about kimchi reminded me of this one. For those in America, when you go to a Korean restaurant, they usually bring you out these side dishes/appetizers of various simple foods. My *favorite* are the yellow pickled radishes. I have been known to eat all of them before my dining companions could have their turn.
11. The crazy drivers!
"Crazy" is probably not the right word. South Korea is a pretty crowded country - especially in the cities (where everyone lives). In America, we have pretty bad stereotypes for Asian drivers, but there's no way Americans would be able to perform the maneuvers that these Koreans do on a daily basis. I have a game on my iPhone called "Unblock" (the idea is that you have to shift around the blocks so that you can create a path), which is what the parking around the library reminds me of - yet there are never any dings or scrapes, which is what would happen if Americans tried the same thing. Traffic laws are also a bit different here - Koreans are more into the U-turns than Americans (which is so fun to watch at intersections - a bunch of cars just turning around in unison). Red lights seem to be more of a suggestion than a law - especially for busses, taxis, and scooters. The horns on cars are also less obnoxious - not the loud blast like in America, but a softer tone.
This one is getting two paragraphs =p. I appreciate the drivers because of something I mentioned waaaaaaaaay long ago - Koreans have insane road rage, but they also have something that Americans don't: the ability to forget. They'll honk like crazy at each other, but it ends there. There's no worry that one will follow you 20 blocks out of their way just to get out of the car and yell at you (or worse) because of something you did to make them mad 15 minutes ago.
12. Subway shopping
Many subway stations here are set up like little shopping centers once you exit the turnstyle. The rule of thumb to shopping in Korea is don't go to stores (with my Lotte addiction, we know I don't follow this rule =p). Street vendors and subway shops have much less overhead so they're able to keep their prices down. I bought a scarf for 5000 KRW (like $5), and want to go back for more *^^*. Still have yet to start buying clothes here - I'm kind of afraid to start...
Bonus! 13. Dr. Fish!
I know you can find the doctor fish in other countries, but since this is the first place in which I visited them, I view the experience as something Korean. I want to go back! Also, the last time I went (when Laura arrived), I totally braved the "big-fish" tank and decided I like them much better :)
When talking about this entry to a friend of mine, his first reaction was, "You're planning on leaving already?!" Want to clarify that one: No! As I said, this is probably just the top 12 good first impressions that Korea gave me. I'm sure a year from now, the things on this list will change (and you all will be subjected to another list entry!).
Showing posts with label list. Show all posts
Showing posts with label list. Show all posts
Monday, April 12, 2010
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Homesick?
Last week, I got homesick for the first time. I had a godawful week and just wanted to escape anything related to work - I was talking to Jessi about this and she said, "See, this is the kind of weekend that I'd convince you to come down to Orlando. I'd bribe you with Universal and sushi!"
I almost started crying. This weekend would have been a *perfect* Orlando weekend.
The weekend actually turned out pretty well, but it got me thinking about things here that we just don't have at home. To keep this from going on and on, here are the top 10 things that I miss about America...
1. Drinkable tap water
In St. Augustine, I went through a pretty long phase in which I only drank bottled water - not because the tap water was unsafe, but just because I didn't like the taste. I got over that phase when I realized how much trash I was generating, and started drinking the tap water (which wasn't all that bad when I thought about it). Here, I'm sure the tap water tastes fine, but it comes with a really awesome side effect: massive sickness. It's annoying because you constantly have to have bottled water on hand..
2. Steak n Shake and Village Inn
I can probably live without the terrible food, but I miss what these places represented: my friends. These were our default late-night places where we'd order something absolutely terrible for us, and spend hours just talking and laughing. They were where we went when awful things happened and just needed to escape - because nothing bad can happen when you've got a frisco melt or coconut cream pie.
3. Italian food
Red sauce here is the equivalent of ketchup. Most cheese is insanely processed. I miss all forms of Mediterranean food like crazy! On May 15, Chris and I are having our America Day in Itaewon, and I might just convince him to find some good Italian food there (that isn't ketchup and a few spices!).
4. Gay Clubs
Dancing is my favorite form of exercise, and there are plenty of clubs here. The problem is, when I go out, there's usually alcohol involved, which then makes me *so much* more aware of the opposite gender. Gay clubs at home, for me, were all about the fun of dancing with complete strangers without any of the mess that goes along with dancing with straight guys.
5. Dryers
I think part of the reason my clothes are too big is that they don't have that opportunity to shrink back up in the dryer! I've also made the mistake of leaving paper in pants pockets, which breaks up in the wash and gets all over my other clothes - and is an absolute *pain* to get out. I've learned that once lint is washed in, it is *staying* there for good! I miss the way my clothes -especially my socks - feel after coming out of the dryer, though it is nice that none of them have faded since I've gotten here. Plus, laundry now takes a day and a half instead of a few hours..
6. Shopping
I love Korean fashion. I hate that my hips are too big for the clothes. I hate that my feet are too big for the shoes. Again, America Day...Itaewon ;) I have started to develop a few accessory habits, which I'm sure will grow while I'm here.
7. Chick-fil-A
Of course this one made it to the list - I was an addict in America :). I don't just miss the food, I miss how that place was run. Everyone was so friendly (at least at the St. Augustine franchise). Not to say that people aren't friendly here - they definitely are, and insanely helpful especially seeing as there's this huge communication block - but there is a lack of warmth.
8. Anastasia Athletic Club / My old morning routine
I miss charging up the mountain on the elliptical, and then talking with the old ladies in the dressing room. There's a path here, but it's not the same. I miss going backwards =p I miss the steam room afterwards. I miss Gail, who used to give me free makeup, and Karen who used to try to sell me condos.
9. Vilano
One of my favorite "Me" things to do was go to Vilano Beach and hunt for sharks teeth. I had quite a collection going - which Mom of course took in an effort to incorporate them into jewelry. It was so peaceful - just me. And when I would feel like I'd searched the whole beach and there were none left, I'd always end up finding one. Even though the big ones were impressive, I liked the small ones the most because they were the most challenging to find.
10. Being in the same time zone
I've been such a bad friend/daughter/granddaughter here. Lately, I've been so down (because I have this secret emo side that I'm trying desperately to shed), and just haven't felt like connecting with *anyone*. This time difference sucks! By the time I am done with all of my stuff in the morning, it's too late to call...and when I come home at night (late morning there), I'm too tired to talk to anyone.....plus, they are all at work.
Reading back, this was an insanely negative entry, but I guess if I'm going to talk about the things I miss at home, there's no way to put a positive spin on it. Next time, I'm going to write the top 10 things I will miss about Korea when and if I come home. Yes, even though I just spent all that time writing about these things I miss about America, I really don't miss living there. The other day, I figured it out: living in America is like living with divorced parents. There are two sides in power, and they don't get anything productive done because they are too busy arguing with each other. When one side comes up with a good idea that will help move things forward, the other side disagrees just because it wasn't their idea/program. Instead of helping them improve it, or working to reach a compromise, they just sit back and point out only the negatives and put exaggerated spins to bury any positives. It's not healthy.
I almost started crying. This weekend would have been a *perfect* Orlando weekend.
The weekend actually turned out pretty well, but it got me thinking about things here that we just don't have at home. To keep this from going on and on, here are the top 10 things that I miss about America...
1. Drinkable tap water
In St. Augustine, I went through a pretty long phase in which I only drank bottled water - not because the tap water was unsafe, but just because I didn't like the taste. I got over that phase when I realized how much trash I was generating, and started drinking the tap water (which wasn't all that bad when I thought about it). Here, I'm sure the tap water tastes fine, but it comes with a really awesome side effect: massive sickness. It's annoying because you constantly have to have bottled water on hand..
2. Steak n Shake and Village Inn
I can probably live without the terrible food, but I miss what these places represented: my friends. These were our default late-night places where we'd order something absolutely terrible for us, and spend hours just talking and laughing. They were where we went when awful things happened and just needed to escape - because nothing bad can happen when you've got a frisco melt or coconut cream pie.
3. Italian food
Red sauce here is the equivalent of ketchup. Most cheese is insanely processed. I miss all forms of Mediterranean food like crazy! On May 15, Chris and I are having our America Day in Itaewon, and I might just convince him to find some good Italian food there (that isn't ketchup and a few spices!).
4. Gay Clubs
Dancing is my favorite form of exercise, and there are plenty of clubs here. The problem is, when I go out, there's usually alcohol involved, which then makes me *so much* more aware of the opposite gender. Gay clubs at home, for me, were all about the fun of dancing with complete strangers without any of the mess that goes along with dancing with straight guys.
5. Dryers
I think part of the reason my clothes are too big is that they don't have that opportunity to shrink back up in the dryer! I've also made the mistake of leaving paper in pants pockets, which breaks up in the wash and gets all over my other clothes - and is an absolute *pain* to get out. I've learned that once lint is washed in, it is *staying* there for good! I miss the way my clothes -especially my socks - feel after coming out of the dryer, though it is nice that none of them have faded since I've gotten here. Plus, laundry now takes a day and a half instead of a few hours..
6. Shopping
I love Korean fashion. I hate that my hips are too big for the clothes. I hate that my feet are too big for the shoes. Again, America Day...Itaewon ;) I have started to develop a few accessory habits, which I'm sure will grow while I'm here.
7. Chick-fil-A
Of course this one made it to the list - I was an addict in America :). I don't just miss the food, I miss how that place was run. Everyone was so friendly (at least at the St. Augustine franchise). Not to say that people aren't friendly here - they definitely are, and insanely helpful especially seeing as there's this huge communication block - but there is a lack of warmth.
8. Anastasia Athletic Club / My old morning routine
I miss charging up the mountain on the elliptical, and then talking with the old ladies in the dressing room. There's a path here, but it's not the same. I miss going backwards =p I miss the steam room afterwards. I miss Gail, who used to give me free makeup, and Karen who used to try to sell me condos.
9. Vilano
One of my favorite "Me" things to do was go to Vilano Beach and hunt for sharks teeth. I had quite a collection going - which Mom of course took in an effort to incorporate them into jewelry. It was so peaceful - just me. And when I would feel like I'd searched the whole beach and there were none left, I'd always end up finding one. Even though the big ones were impressive, I liked the small ones the most because they were the most challenging to find.
10. Being in the same time zone
I've been such a bad friend/daughter/granddaughter here. Lately, I've been so down (because I have this secret emo side that I'm trying desperately to shed), and just haven't felt like connecting with *anyone*. This time difference sucks! By the time I am done with all of my stuff in the morning, it's too late to call...and when I come home at night (late morning there), I'm too tired to talk to anyone.....plus, they are all at work.
Reading back, this was an insanely negative entry, but I guess if I'm going to talk about the things I miss at home, there's no way to put a positive spin on it. Next time, I'm going to write the top 10 things I will miss about Korea when and if I come home. Yes, even though I just spent all that time writing about these things I miss about America, I really don't miss living there. The other day, I figured it out: living in America is like living with divorced parents. There are two sides in power, and they don't get anything productive done because they are too busy arguing with each other. When one side comes up with a good idea that will help move things forward, the other side disagrees just because it wasn't their idea/program. Instead of helping them improve it, or working to reach a compromise, they just sit back and point out only the negatives and put exaggerated spins to bury any positives. It's not healthy.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Continued....
Going to add a bit to that entry about Norebang and laryngitis (e.g., the whole tribute to the Chicago Trib advice column)
Don't be impatient with the samgyeopsal. It will be just as good if allowed to cook that extra necessary minute - plus, you will avoid the week of not being able to keep anything down.
Korean boys are just as untrustworthy as American boys.
Clean your tiny apartment. It'll look bigger. Making your bed on a daily basis helps with this, too - especially if your place is all one room.
Despite the fact that being a hagwon teacher is an extension of college/the frat party, try not to get totally wasted every weekend. Your skin will thank you. As will your stomach and your brain.
Related to the above, find a sober hobby.
Scooter drivers don't play dodge-the-person - they play Red Rover. You will lose. Sidewalks are not just for people.
Get lost in Lotte - preferably during free sample time. The workers will be entertained that you come back for more - be sure to smile each time.
Leave your hair dryer at home. They sell them at E-Mart and Lotte for the same price as a power converter. They also sell hair straighteners, and every skin and hair product known to man. Seriously - save the suitcase room for sheets and pillows.
Bring your own pillows.
Don't censor your music collection. Out here, it's not only okay, it's actually kind of cool to like bad American pop.
After the laryngitis, go back to norebang. Be sure to choose one of those terrible American pop songs. Belt it without shame - we both know you know the lyrics ;).
But, seriously, wait until the laryngitis is *over*
----
This weekend brought a few lessons, and a whole lot of awesomeness. Finally met up with a few people I've been talking to for various periods of time. The first was a knitting group of foreign teachers. They showed me this one expensive yarn shop (totally forgot the location, which is probably a good thing), and then the Dongdaemun Market. Bought some of the ugliest yarn for 2000 KRW a ball and plan on making insanely awesome fingerless gloves with it :D. Also bought some very expensive, but very pretty, yarn that will also become a pair of fingerless gloves.
Left the group for lunch with Tim, which is always a great time. This time, we discussed how, thanks to CNBlue, Koreans know how to start counting in English. Unfortunately, also thanks to CNBlue, they run the risk of thinking that the number that comes after 7 is "tonight". Seriously, on behalf of Tim and The Beck, ask a Korean what comes after 7 - they will tell you either 1, "tonight", or "to nine". I hate that I love that song.
Ended the day with round two of meet-a-stranger-I-met online - in a much less creepy sounding intro, I finally met Chris! To the family members who are probably reading this and worried that I am meeting strangers from the internet, don't worry - he's a Chungdahm teacher whom I started talking with before I left America while I was reaching out to people over there who weren't serial killers. We did a few loops around Hongdae (I have yet to actually go clubbing in that place despite having been there a few times) and went to a fantastic chicken galbi place for dinner that was much cheaper than the one in Suji. We decided that May 15 is going to be our America day, which we will spend (appropriately) in Itaewon (Land of English menus, XL sizes, and corn-free pizza :)).
Actually, we need to discuss that link that I just snuck in there: Roketship is this fantastic webcomic done by an American teacher in Korea. Everything that man has written is so true about this place: the kids are insanely busy with academies, they complain about being hot but won't take off their jackets, there are trucks that drive around making apocalypse-sounding announcements but are really just advertising sales, and the weirdest things come packaged together at grocery stores (today it was chapstick and cream cheese). Also, gun-line-square-batman-sideways t-batman equals not only lunch, but also dinner :). I was so inspired that I emailed the guy and told him about "shiver" popping up on my Memory class's vocabulary list (pretend you're a Korean 6th grader...now say it....yeah, that's exactly what they said, too ;)).
Don't be impatient with the samgyeopsal. It will be just as good if allowed to cook that extra necessary minute - plus, you will avoid the week of not being able to keep anything down.
Korean boys are just as untrustworthy as American boys.
Clean your tiny apartment. It'll look bigger. Making your bed on a daily basis helps with this, too - especially if your place is all one room.
Despite the fact that being a hagwon teacher is an extension of college/the frat party, try not to get totally wasted every weekend. Your skin will thank you. As will your stomach and your brain.
Related to the above, find a sober hobby.
Scooter drivers don't play dodge-the-person - they play Red Rover. You will lose. Sidewalks are not just for people.
Get lost in Lotte - preferably during free sample time. The workers will be entertained that you come back for more - be sure to smile each time.
Leave your hair dryer at home. They sell them at E-Mart and Lotte for the same price as a power converter. They also sell hair straighteners, and every skin and hair product known to man. Seriously - save the suitcase room for sheets and pillows.
Bring your own pillows.
Don't censor your music collection. Out here, it's not only okay, it's actually kind of cool to like bad American pop.
After the laryngitis, go back to norebang. Be sure to choose one of those terrible American pop songs. Belt it without shame - we both know you know the lyrics ;).
But, seriously, wait until the laryngitis is *over*
----
This weekend brought a few lessons, and a whole lot of awesomeness. Finally met up with a few people I've been talking to for various periods of time. The first was a knitting group of foreign teachers. They showed me this one expensive yarn shop (totally forgot the location, which is probably a good thing), and then the Dongdaemun Market. Bought some of the ugliest yarn for 2000 KRW a ball and plan on making insanely awesome fingerless gloves with it :D. Also bought some very expensive, but very pretty, yarn that will also become a pair of fingerless gloves.
Left the group for lunch with Tim, which is always a great time. This time, we discussed how, thanks to CNBlue, Koreans know how to start counting in English. Unfortunately, also thanks to CNBlue, they run the risk of thinking that the number that comes after 7 is "tonight". Seriously, on behalf of Tim and The Beck, ask a Korean what comes after 7 - they will tell you either 1, "tonight", or "to nine". I hate that I love that song.
Ended the day with round two of meet-a-stranger-I-met online - in a much less creepy sounding intro, I finally met Chris! To the family members who are probably reading this and worried that I am meeting strangers from the internet, don't worry - he's a Chungdahm teacher whom I started talking with before I left America while I was reaching out to people over there who weren't serial killers. We did a few loops around Hongdae (I have yet to actually go clubbing in that place despite having been there a few times) and went to a fantastic chicken galbi place for dinner that was much cheaper than the one in Suji. We decided that May 15 is going to be our America day, which we will spend (appropriately) in Itaewon (Land of English menus, XL sizes, and corn-free pizza :)).
Actually, we need to discuss that link that I just snuck in there: Roketship is this fantastic webcomic done by an American teacher in Korea. Everything that man has written is so true about this place: the kids are insanely busy with academies, they complain about being hot but won't take off their jackets, there are trucks that drive around making apocalypse-sounding announcements but are really just advertising sales, and the weirdest things come packaged together at grocery stores (today it was chapstick and cream cheese). Also, gun-line-square-batman-sideways t-batman equals not only lunch, but also dinner :). I was so inspired that I emailed the guy and told him about "shiver" popping up on my Memory class's vocabulary list (pretend you're a Korean 6th grader...now say it....yeah, that's exactly what they said, too ;)).
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Ain't No Lie, Baby....
In high school, our "graduation song" was the "Sunscreen Speech" (also called "Advice, Like Youth, is Wasted on the Young") set to background music. Later, the song was mocked by Chris Rock in a sketch called "There's No Sex in the Champagne Room" - both very sound pieces of advice. Since hearing both, I've been searching for my own piece of advice that I was 100% sure would always be effective and help out a large chunk of the population. Well, I found it...
Noriban is not a cure for laryngitis.
For those unfamiliar (i.e., my family at home - hi!!!), noriban is the Korean version of karaoke. Instead of singing in front of a large crowd, you and your friends rent this little room (not soundproof, of course - this is Korea, after all), and have at your disposal every pop song ever created in the American and Korean cultures (I'm sure there's also some J-Pop in there - I didn't get a chance to really look through the book). I like it better than our perception of karaoke because there's no crowd involved. Yes, I know that I <3 attention, but not when singing is involved.
Before noriban, I thought that "I Believe I can Fly" was a syrupy sweet song that was too cavity-threatening to make it even onto my iTunes list (and for everyone who's seen that thing, you know that there's too much Miley and High School Musical for me to deny my love for pop). Tony, however, corrected that misbelief. Just like "Boyz in the Hood" can be turned into a soft alternative song, "I Believe I can Fly" can become a rough, screaming jam.
Also, before noriban, I thought that I was _not_ a fan of Lady Gaga. I was also terribly wrong on that one, too. I also didn't know that I knew all of the lyrics to "Poker Face" (I was just as surprised as everyone else reading this..).
After our assigned hour and a half, I had hopes of surviving the night with my vocal cords still intact....but then I guess the owner decided that he really liked us (the "half" previously mentioned was free), and gave us another free twenty minutes. Instead of being a good, logical person and thinking, "Okay, save the voice...need to be able to talk next week", my fun side kicked in and went, "Heck yes all of us singing 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' at the top of our lungs is a fantastic idea!!!" Probably still could've made it had we not also decided to do some Jimmy Eat World, No Doubt, Boyz II Men (don't ask - I never question the genius that is Jennifer..), and finished it all off with N'Sync's "Bye Bye Bye" (I will admit to knowing all of the lyrics to that song).
For those who have heard the story, we saw the Scottish guy!! He was not at noriban, nor at Underground - he was with this elusive girlfriend that one of you mentioned and very not all-in-our-faces. Fortunately, Jen and I are such fantastic actors that Josh and Tony now understand exactly what our last encounter was like. I have more evidence supporting the theory that he lives in my building: he and his girlfriend walked up there (which caused me to run back to Jen and Kevin because although he's probably not that creeper of a guy, I'm having a hard time getting past that first awful impression).
But since I did reference that awesome Chicago Trib article about the advice that I'm not all that qualified to give but am anyway (you know that whole month of experience really speaks volumes =p), here it goes..
Eat the kimchi. Okay, maybe it won't cure AIDS or male pattern baldness, but it's some good stuff. Eat the radishes, too. If your braver friends order intestines, take a bite - you don't have to join them in finishing all of it, but you look like less of a hoser American if you at least try some.
Learn hangul. Knowing what your'e ordering in restaurants is much easier.
Listen to what your friends say about Korean fashion advice, but pack your suitcase with *your* clothes. Seoul women do walk around like they're on a runway, but they won't deny your ARC if you show up in flare jeans or opt out of purchasing Uggs. Actually, if you do stray from the Ugg trend, drop me a line - I'm trying to start a non-ugly boot group.
Stay away from buildings with barber poles.
Embrace the cuteness. Just because Americans feel like everything has to Be Serious doesn't mean it always has to be in other parts of the world. Police officers who come out of a building with a cartoon on the front are just as respectable as the ones who come out of the white institutional buildings. Also, since we have to listen to PSA's, why not make them animated? This also applies when you purchase your first cell phone.
Learn how to use metal chopsticks. Don't feel like a failure when you're told that it's okay to eat your rice with a spoon. I'm still working on that one.
Don't eat alone. Meals are a community event and everything is set up to make it about sharing. It's so freaking cheap here that you don't really have an excuse, either.
Children will stare. Old people will glare. Smile at both.
"Thank you" is pronounced "kahm-sahm-nee-daa". Be sure to bow a lot, too. Even if you make the worst cultural mishaps (like throwing your trash away completely incorrectly right in front of the garbage men), bowing makes everything better.
You may already know some of these. Others just may not work for you. But I'm serious about the laryngitis and noriban - not a good idea. I'm sure my nurse practitioner mom agrees..
Noriban is not a cure for laryngitis.
For those unfamiliar (i.e., my family at home - hi!!!), noriban is the Korean version of karaoke. Instead of singing in front of a large crowd, you and your friends rent this little room (not soundproof, of course - this is Korea, after all), and have at your disposal every pop song ever created in the American and Korean cultures (I'm sure there's also some J-Pop in there - I didn't get a chance to really look through the book). I like it better than our perception of karaoke because there's no crowd involved. Yes, I know that I <3 attention, but not when singing is involved.
Before noriban, I thought that "I Believe I can Fly" was a syrupy sweet song that was too cavity-threatening to make it even onto my iTunes list (and for everyone who's seen that thing, you know that there's too much Miley and High School Musical for me to deny my love for pop). Tony, however, corrected that misbelief. Just like "Boyz in the Hood" can be turned into a soft alternative song, "I Believe I can Fly" can become a rough, screaming jam.
Also, before noriban, I thought that I was _not_ a fan of Lady Gaga. I was also terribly wrong on that one, too. I also didn't know that I knew all of the lyrics to "Poker Face" (I was just as surprised as everyone else reading this..).
After our assigned hour and a half, I had hopes of surviving the night with my vocal cords still intact....but then I guess the owner decided that he really liked us (the "half" previously mentioned was free), and gave us another free twenty minutes. Instead of being a good, logical person and thinking, "Okay, save the voice...need to be able to talk next week", my fun side kicked in and went, "Heck yes all of us singing 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' at the top of our lungs is a fantastic idea!!!" Probably still could've made it had we not also decided to do some Jimmy Eat World, No Doubt, Boyz II Men (don't ask - I never question the genius that is Jennifer..), and finished it all off with N'Sync's "Bye Bye Bye" (I will admit to knowing all of the lyrics to that song).
For those who have heard the story, we saw the Scottish guy!! He was not at noriban, nor at Underground - he was with this elusive girlfriend that one of you mentioned and very not all-in-our-faces. Fortunately, Jen and I are such fantastic actors that Josh and Tony now understand exactly what our last encounter was like. I have more evidence supporting the theory that he lives in my building: he and his girlfriend walked up there (which caused me to run back to Jen and Kevin because although he's probably not that creeper of a guy, I'm having a hard time getting past that first awful impression).
But since I did reference that awesome Chicago Trib article about the advice that I'm not all that qualified to give but am anyway (you know that whole month of experience really speaks volumes =p), here it goes..
Eat the kimchi. Okay, maybe it won't cure AIDS or male pattern baldness, but it's some good stuff. Eat the radishes, too. If your braver friends order intestines, take a bite - you don't have to join them in finishing all of it, but you look like less of a hoser American if you at least try some.
Learn hangul. Knowing what your'e ordering in restaurants is much easier.
Listen to what your friends say about Korean fashion advice, but pack your suitcase with *your* clothes. Seoul women do walk around like they're on a runway, but they won't deny your ARC if you show up in flare jeans or opt out of purchasing Uggs. Actually, if you do stray from the Ugg trend, drop me a line - I'm trying to start a non-ugly boot group.
Stay away from buildings with barber poles.
Embrace the cuteness. Just because Americans feel like everything has to Be Serious doesn't mean it always has to be in other parts of the world. Police officers who come out of a building with a cartoon on the front are just as respectable as the ones who come out of the white institutional buildings. Also, since we have to listen to PSA's, why not make them animated? This also applies when you purchase your first cell phone.
Learn how to use metal chopsticks. Don't feel like a failure when you're told that it's okay to eat your rice with a spoon. I'm still working on that one.
Don't eat alone. Meals are a community event and everything is set up to make it about sharing. It's so freaking cheap here that you don't really have an excuse, either.
Children will stare. Old people will glare. Smile at both.
"Thank you" is pronounced "kahm-sahm-nee-daa". Be sure to bow a lot, too. Even if you make the worst cultural mishaps (like throwing your trash away completely incorrectly right in front of the garbage men), bowing makes everything better.
You may already know some of these. Others just may not work for you. But I'm serious about the laryngitis and noriban - not a good idea. I'm sure my nurse practitioner mom agrees..
Monday, January 18, 2010
Meds Overseas..
Visited St. Augustine yesterday for a final goodbye to my various crews. It was awful, and I had to call someone on my way home to keep from totally crying. The great thing about going on a Sunday was that the entire house was off at a decent hour, so we were all able to go out to dinner. As I'm going to Asia, they decided that the thing I would probably not get over there would be Mexican, so we went to El Potro (yes, much queso was consumed ;)) and then to Village Inn because they don't have ovens to bake pie in Korea ;)
Melissa gave me a fantastic departure gift: more toothpaste than you can shake a stick at! I know that Aclipse recruiters claim that the toothpaste over there *isn't* packed with sugar, but I want to be sure... I also went to Target and picked up a ton of deodorant. Later, at the house, I made a comment about visiting my old roommates; Dereck responded, "We are old and Audrey apparently has an odor problem!" I digress - at Melissa's, we ran into her neighbor (Beck: the woman who replaced Randy Taylor) who travels overseas a lot and she gave me this long freaking pharmacy list. Now, while I'm taking all advice with a grain of salt - especially as everything I buy must be *packed*, there were a few things I listened to:
She also suggested to pick up feminine hygiene products in case what's sold over there is different - but several female Aclipse teachers have confirmed that they've been able to find Tampax, so I'm not taking that one too seriously.. I also picked up some Airborne which I will be taking religiously for the next several days as me=sick on the plane=awful.
While on this adventure, Jess tossed some wet ones in my basket. She said that her airplane ran out of water and it was nice to have *something* to was her hands with after going potty. Also, she said I may want them for things like wiping down surfaces before I sit down..
Back to this awful beast that is packing. I've eliminated the space bags because they just aren't flexible once the air is gone. Crossing my fingers in hope that I actually can fit it all x.x
But this time I have the Glee soundtrack!
Melissa gave me a fantastic departure gift: more toothpaste than you can shake a stick at! I know that Aclipse recruiters claim that the toothpaste over there *isn't* packed with sugar, but I want to be sure... I also went to Target and picked up a ton of deodorant. Later, at the house, I made a comment about visiting my old roommates; Dereck responded, "We are old and Audrey apparently has an odor problem!" I digress - at Melissa's, we ran into her neighbor (Beck: the woman who replaced Randy Taylor) who travels overseas a lot and she gave me this long freaking pharmacy list. Now, while I'm taking all advice with a grain of salt - especially as everything I buy must be *packed*, there were a few things I listened to:
- Culturelle - a probiotic. This was the only thing I listened to with the whole "Get a 3 month supply" advice..
- Immodium - still with this whole Audrey will probably get sick idea
- Monistat - TMI, I know, but in case any female is reading this who is also going overseas, their toilet paper may be a bit different than what we're used to..
- Benadryl
- Cold medicine in case you pick up something on the plane and don't know enough about the culture to get something
She also suggested to pick up feminine hygiene products in case what's sold over there is different - but several female Aclipse teachers have confirmed that they've been able to find Tampax, so I'm not taking that one too seriously.. I also picked up some Airborne which I will be taking religiously for the next several days as me=sick on the plane=awful.
While on this adventure, Jess tossed some wet ones in my basket. She said that her airplane ran out of water and it was nice to have *something* to was her hands with after going potty. Also, she said I may want them for things like wiping down surfaces before I sit down..
Back to this awful beast that is packing. I've eliminated the space bags because they just aren't flexible once the air is gone. Crossing my fingers in hope that I actually can fit it all x.x
But this time I have the Glee soundtrack!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Cushioning the Wait
"The Waiting Game" seems to be a popular topic on the forum lately. I'm sure CDL candidates are experiencing delays that their predecessors never had to experience. I'm one. The original plan started when I was laid off in June. I figured I'd collect my summer paycheck through August, and by September I'd be in Korea. Hah! When I received an offer that said January, I thought I wouldn't survive until then. I must have - because it's December, and in a bit over a month, I'll be on that freakishly long plane ride. When waiting for something this exciting, the days seem longer than just 24 hours. So, I don't know about anyone else, but this how I survived..
1. Learning something new
Okay, yes, this is awful and cliche and sounds like something my mom would say (and that she'd be right about, which would make me hate the advice more), but it worked. I knew that I had to find something to keep my hands busy so I wouldn't constantly call or email my recruiter. So I learned how to knit. I'm straddling the line between twenty-something and old lady with this hobby, but magazines like Vouge Knitting (not kidding - it really does exist) keep me on the safe side of things :). With Christmas coming soon, I also have that extra motivation to stay busy knitting and not worrying about when things will happen..
2. Getting Involved
Finding part time employment was a big negative for me, and I ended up having to move back in with the parents. To keep from sitting at home all day, or going out and building up the credit card debt that I finally just paid off, I contacted some of my former teachers and started volunteering in their classrooms. Plus, it could be a good way for inexperienced teachers to get to know what they're getting into.
3. Staying Active
Know the line in Legally Blonde - "Exercise releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy and happy people just don't kill their husbands"? Well, happy people also don't get totally depressed when they don't hear about a contract ;). I fixed up my bicycle and started riding (I call it the Tour de Melrose - except, instead of beautiful French countryside, I see cows and dead armadillos). The worrying puts me in a frenzy and the release gets me up those hills (yes, there *are* hills in Florida), and things just never are as bad when I come back..
4. Making Plans
I used to be a runner, and I hated it. To keep the path from looking so long, I'd set a thousand mini-milestones - instead of looking to the other side of the lake I ran around, I'd focus on a tree five feet away, and then a crack in the pavement as my goal lines. With this start date practically eons away, I made sure that I had at least two fun things planned each month so I could look forward to something two weeks away - instead of six months.
1. Learning something new
Okay, yes, this is awful and cliche and sounds like something my mom would say (and that she'd be right about, which would make me hate the advice more), but it worked. I knew that I had to find something to keep my hands busy so I wouldn't constantly call or email my recruiter. So I learned how to knit. I'm straddling the line between twenty-something and old lady with this hobby, but magazines like Vouge Knitting (not kidding - it really does exist) keep me on the safe side of things :). With Christmas coming soon, I also have that extra motivation to stay busy knitting and not worrying about when things will happen..
2. Getting Involved
Finding part time employment was a big negative for me, and I ended up having to move back in with the parents. To keep from sitting at home all day, or going out and building up the credit card debt that I finally just paid off, I contacted some of my former teachers and started volunteering in their classrooms. Plus, it could be a good way for inexperienced teachers to get to know what they're getting into.
3. Staying Active
Know the line in Legally Blonde - "Exercise releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy and happy people just don't kill their husbands"? Well, happy people also don't get totally depressed when they don't hear about a contract ;). I fixed up my bicycle and started riding (I call it the Tour de Melrose - except, instead of beautiful French countryside, I see cows and dead armadillos). The worrying puts me in a frenzy and the release gets me up those hills (yes, there *are* hills in Florida), and things just never are as bad when I come back..
4. Making Plans
I used to be a runner, and I hated it. To keep the path from looking so long, I'd set a thousand mini-milestones - instead of looking to the other side of the lake I ran around, I'd focus on a tree five feet away, and then a crack in the pavement as my goal lines. With this start date practically eons away, I made sure that I had at least two fun things planned each month so I could look forward to something two weeks away - instead of six months.
5. Learning Korean
This one didn't help with making the time pass because it makes you think more about going overseas, but since I did have a bit of time on my hands, I invested in the Pimselur program (Rosetta Stone is a bit too rich for my blood ;)). I did a lesson everyday - had to do most twice - but I feel a bit more prepared. If anything, the language did give some hints about their culture. For example, you address older people much differently than you do younger (kind of like how Spanish has different words when talking to/about a female vs. talking to/about a male). Also, it's apparently common to ask "Have you had lunch" instead of "How are you?" You're supposed to say "yes, thanks" even if you haven't (kind of like how we're supposed to answer "fine, you?" when people ask how we are in greeting).
I have approximately fifteen thousand post its left over from my previous job, and may use those to create a countdown with little message reminders (e.g., "5 days to go - have you gotten that space bag for your pillows?"). I keep thinking to myself that if things hadn't been delayed, then I wouldn't have been able to spend almost a month with my grandma (who is this hip, rockin old lady - I swear that woman has "I Love Elvis" tattooed somewhere..), or move back home to spend time with my childhood pets. I bought a suitcase yesterday, and when I came home with it, they looked at me like I was breaking their hearts - they're smart puppies and know what suitcases mean (I already know that the day I leave, we'll have to keep circling the block because one will chase the car).
This one didn't help with making the time pass because it makes you think more about going overseas, but since I did have a bit of time on my hands, I invested in the Pimselur program (Rosetta Stone is a bit too rich for my blood ;)). I did a lesson everyday - had to do most twice - but I feel a bit more prepared. If anything, the language did give some hints about their culture. For example, you address older people much differently than you do younger (kind of like how Spanish has different words when talking to/about a female vs. talking to/about a male). Also, it's apparently common to ask "Have you had lunch" instead of "How are you?" You're supposed to say "yes, thanks" even if you haven't (kind of like how we're supposed to answer "fine, you?" when people ask how we are in greeting).
I have approximately fifteen thousand post its left over from my previous job, and may use those to create a countdown with little message reminders (e.g., "5 days to go - have you gotten that space bag for your pillows?"). I keep thinking to myself that if things hadn't been delayed, then I wouldn't have been able to spend almost a month with my grandma (who is this hip, rockin old lady - I swear that woman has "I Love Elvis" tattooed somewhere..), or move back home to spend time with my childhood pets. I bought a suitcase yesterday, and when I came home with it, they looked at me like I was breaking their hearts - they're smart puppies and know what suitcases mean (I already know that the day I leave, we'll have to keep circling the block because one will chase the car).
Top Five Curiosities about This New Life
I seem to always have conversations with people who have a story to tell about a time they went on some grand adventure, and I really don't have much to say in return. I went to college, got a job within a week of graduating, and have worked more overtime than I've had days off. It was the American dream, but not my dream. I didn't really follow the status quo in high school, so why start now? Over the summer, I was presented with a huge choice: stay with my current teaching job with the students I loved, or change paths to a job that requires a new language and foreign work visa. As much as I will miss my students, it was time to let them go - it was time to embark on that journey to finally gain some global understanding.
In January (fingers crossed), I'll leave this life for something the complete opposite. If the world were a book, South Koreans would be my foil character. I'd have to live under a McDonald's box not to learn anything or evolve in any way. Right now, I don't have any expectations about how I will change - just questions about what I'll encounter. Here are the top five that I hope will be answered on this journey...
1. What's for lunch?
I won't hide it: food is a huge Audrey-motivating factor. As a die hard foodie, I'm looking forward to some new cuisines to replace the ones I'm leaving behind. Fortunately, I wasn't raised a picky eater - a good friend of mine somehow survives on a diet of chicken fingers, french fries, cheese pizza, and fried rice (nope, never a hamburger, and you can forget anything green) - but at what point will I not be able to handle what's put in front of me? I'm approaching this new cultural diet with a small amount of apprehension and a huge excited curiosity. Eel? Alright! Sea cucumber that's still slightly alive (yes, that's a reference to a fellow Aclipse member's blog), bring it on! Food is such a major part of any culture, so limiting diet may result in a loss of experience.
2. Which references are not cross-cultural?
President Bush (the first) thought he was flashing the peace sign in a gesture of goodwill, but was pretty much giving many parts of Europe the finger. He had a whole team of advisors and assistants up on etiquette all across the world, but still managed this snafu. Imagine what damage I'll cause when left to my own devices - gestures and phrases that I use without thought may have a huge consequence in another country. I'm sure I can measure the countdown in minutes (or seconds, depending on who's sitting next to me on the plane). Hopefully, it'll be something that makes us all laugh - like the friend of mine who thought she was using excellent Turkish when informing the bus driver that he'd reached her stop, but was really announcing to her fellow passengers, "Look at that cow!" Whatever the damage, I can only respond in typical Audrey fashion: blush, laugh, probably cover my face, apologize profusely, and ask for an explanation (which, of course will be followed with more laughter). :)
3. How do teenagers compare across cultures?
Adolescence is the second time in a person's life that the part of the brain that processes long-term benefits and interpersonal understanding goes under construction (the first being when we're toddlers - and anyone whose worked with teenagers can probably see the connection :)). In America, it's pretty obvious that teenagers are going through this, and understanding that they're not selfish or lazy. I'm about to enter a culture in which hard work is always expected and student-to-teacher rudeness is unheard of. If we're all humans and our brains develop the same way, how are the Asian students coping with this?
4. What will happen to my perception outside of the homeland?
Americans have a lot of patriotism, which has quickly become this belief that our way of living is the right way. This idea has become pretty obvious with the spread of "democracy" and "capitalism" with the intent to improve lives in foreign cultures, but are they really the best ways? Although McDonalds and Starbucks can be found all throughout the world, they haven't made enough of an impact to turn foreigners into American copycats. Right now, many Americans are battling against universal health care, but if many other countries are healthier under more socialized/government-controlled health care, then are we fighting against the idea because it's un-American, and not because of its merit?
5. Is it really a small world after all?
Question four was pretty negative and focused on our differences, but I also want to learn about our similarities as, for the most part, this will be a positive experience. As mentioned in the third question, we're all humans, with the same physiology and basic needs. European cultures aren't too foreign because that's where from - but we didn't have regular contact with Asians until quite recently in our history, so we've evolved into very different peoples. From what I've learned, politeness seems to be cross-cultural, as does a curiosity, rather than a barrier, about new people and ideas. Friendship is a universal need, which has created a global enjoyment of having fun with your pals.
In January (fingers crossed), I'll leave this life for something the complete opposite. If the world were a book, South Koreans would be my foil character. I'd have to live under a McDonald's box not to learn anything or evolve in any way. Right now, I don't have any expectations about how I will change - just questions about what I'll encounter. Here are the top five that I hope will be answered on this journey...
1. What's for lunch?
I won't hide it: food is a huge Audrey-motivating factor. As a die hard foodie, I'm looking forward to some new cuisines to replace the ones I'm leaving behind. Fortunately, I wasn't raised a picky eater - a good friend of mine somehow survives on a diet of chicken fingers, french fries, cheese pizza, and fried rice (nope, never a hamburger, and you can forget anything green) - but at what point will I not be able to handle what's put in front of me? I'm approaching this new cultural diet with a small amount of apprehension and a huge excited curiosity. Eel? Alright! Sea cucumber that's still slightly alive (yes, that's a reference to a fellow Aclipse member's blog), bring it on! Food is such a major part of any culture, so limiting diet may result in a loss of experience.
2. Which references are not cross-cultural?
President Bush (the first) thought he was flashing the peace sign in a gesture of goodwill, but was pretty much giving many parts of Europe the finger. He had a whole team of advisors and assistants up on etiquette all across the world, but still managed this snafu. Imagine what damage I'll cause when left to my own devices - gestures and phrases that I use without thought may have a huge consequence in another country. I'm sure I can measure the countdown in minutes (or seconds, depending on who's sitting next to me on the plane). Hopefully, it'll be something that makes us all laugh - like the friend of mine who thought she was using excellent Turkish when informing the bus driver that he'd reached her stop, but was really announcing to her fellow passengers, "Look at that cow!" Whatever the damage, I can only respond in typical Audrey fashion: blush, laugh, probably cover my face, apologize profusely, and ask for an explanation (which, of course will be followed with more laughter). :)
3. How do teenagers compare across cultures?
Adolescence is the second time in a person's life that the part of the brain that processes long-term benefits and interpersonal understanding goes under construction (the first being when we're toddlers - and anyone whose worked with teenagers can probably see the connection :)). In America, it's pretty obvious that teenagers are going through this, and understanding that they're not selfish or lazy. I'm about to enter a culture in which hard work is always expected and student-to-teacher rudeness is unheard of. If we're all humans and our brains develop the same way, how are the Asian students coping with this?
4. What will happen to my perception outside of the homeland?
Americans have a lot of patriotism, which has quickly become this belief that our way of living is the right way. This idea has become pretty obvious with the spread of "democracy" and "capitalism" with the intent to improve lives in foreign cultures, but are they really the best ways? Although McDonalds and Starbucks can be found all throughout the world, they haven't made enough of an impact to turn foreigners into American copycats. Right now, many Americans are battling against universal health care, but if many other countries are healthier under more socialized/government-controlled health care, then are we fighting against the idea because it's un-American, and not because of its merit?
5. Is it really a small world after all?
Question four was pretty negative and focused on our differences, but I also want to learn about our similarities as, for the most part, this will be a positive experience. As mentioned in the third question, we're all humans, with the same physiology and basic needs. European cultures aren't too foreign because that's where from - but we didn't have regular contact with Asians until quite recently in our history, so we've evolved into very different peoples. From what I've learned, politeness seems to be cross-cultural, as does a curiosity, rather than a barrier, about new people and ideas. Friendship is a universal need, which has created a global enjoyment of having fun with your pals.
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