Korean exchange students from Seolhwa School in Asan City, South Korea visited Niles West in October for the first time and stayed with their host students in Korean Club. The NWN spoke with Yeong Ju, who stayed with her host, senior Jaime Salicete, to learn about her experience in America.

NWN: How are people in America  different compared to people in Korea?

Ju: We study more and there’s not much time to play and have free time.

NWN: What have you learned from your time in America?

Ju: [I have] improved my English and learned more about American culture.

NWN: What do you like most about American culture?

Ju: The parties and the food.

NWN: What were your expectations of America before coming here and how have they changed?

Ju: I thought Americans were really cool and now I still think they’re cool.

NWN: Why do you think Gangnam Style is so popular here?

Ju: Because the dance is interesting and funny.

The Seolhwa students departed from Skokie on Monday, Oct. 29 and returned to Korea. As part of this exchange, West students will be going to Korea next June. With the many exchange programs happening this year, Salicete encourages students to be involved.

“It’s a really good experience,” Salicete said. “People should [participate] to learn about different cultures. When you learn about different cultures, you come to appreciate some parts of your culture as well.”