Scholarship / Personal statement Psychology (university track) [2]

As children, life is simple. Our biggest worries revolve around play, curiosity, and the small joys of everyday life. But as we grow, the world changes responsibilities increase, expectations grow heavier, and the once clear path ahead can become uncertain. For many, especially young people, this transition is overwhelming. Some struggle under the pressure to succeed, while others fight silent battles, turning to self-harm, substance abuse, or even suicide to cope.

I have seen firsthand how deeply emotional challenges can affect an individual how easy it is for emotional wounds to grow unnoticed, and how often people suffer in silence because they feel no one truly understands. Witnessing this sparked something in me. I want to understand the human mind, not just through textbooks and theories, but through real-life stories, emotions, and experiences.

What drew me to South Korea is more than its academic prestige. It is the country's shifting focus on mental health, human development, and social progress. Becoming aware of the psychological struggles many young people face, particularly the rising rates of emotional burnout and self-harm, I felt a strong conviction to understand these issues at their roots. The work of psychologists like Sang-Min Lee and Soo Yeon-Suh showed me how powerful research can be when it addresses real-life problems. This influence deepened my interest in studying the human mind within a system that values both scientific advancement and cultural depth. Korea's evolving society, strong educational structure, and deep-rooted traditions make it the ideal place for me to begin this journey.

I believe this opportunity will equip me not only with academic tools but also with the perspective and experience needed to grow into someone who can respond to the emotional needs of my generation. I completed high school two years ago, graduating among the top ten students in my class. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, I was unable to continue directly to university. However, that did not stop me from staying focused on my academic goals. I remained committed to my passion for learning, especially psychology, and used this time to explore its foundational concepts. I took the initiative to study the core principles of psychology, watch lectures, and engage with educational content to build a strong foundation. This journey has only strengthened my passion and determination, and I am now fully prepared to apply for this program and pursue my academic path with clear purpose.

Beyond academics, I have taken part in experiences that have shaped my ability to connect with people and understand responsibility. Volunteering at MANI's organization gave me the chance to support others and show genuine empathy something I believe is essential in both life and psychology. I also assisted with outreach to orphanages, which challenged me to think creatively, work with others, and step into leadership when it mattered most. These experiences have taught me how to contribute meaningfully to any environment, and I look forward to bringing that same energy and mindset to university life in South Korea.

When searching for universities, I learned about Yeungnam University and was impressed by its strong academic programs, research environment, and excellent support for international students. I was especially drawn to the university's focus on research and its facilities that help students combine theory with practical experience. The wide range of courses offered, the emphasis on community contribution, and supportive programs like the Buddy Program and Language Partner Program showed me that Yeungnam University truly cares about helping students grow academically and personally.

All of these aspects inspired me and motivated me to choose Yeungnam University as the place where I will develop my knowledge, strengthen my research skills, and contribute meaningfully to the field of psychology.

Scholarship / Goals of plan & study plan (psychology) [2]

If selected for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program, my first goal is to successfully reach a Korean language proficiency level 4 that allows me to thrive both academically and socially. Before starting my undergraduate coursework, I will put in dedicated effort to build my language skills so I can participate fully in lectures, discussions, and everyday life in Korea. To do this, I will continue learning from Korean learning platforms like TalkToMeInKorean and Korean unnie, and practice speaking as much as possible before departure.

Once in Korea, I will actively engage in language buddy group, join conversation clubs, and communicate with classmates to strengthen my fluency. By using Korean daily whether ordering food, asking questions in class, or watching local news I hope to adapt smoothly. My goal is to achieve at least TOPIK level 4 during my language program years to keep up with academic demands and to connect deeply with Korean culture.

Academically, I aim to become one of the top-performing students in my department. I will attend lectures with keen interest, take detailed notes, and prepare ahead for each class. To deepen my understanding, I plan to spend time at university libraries exploring books and journals related to human behavior, counseling, and mental health. I will also participate in group discussions, psychology clubs, and volunteer opportunities that allow me to gain practical exposure to real-life cases.

Through consistent effort and active participation in seminars and workshops, I hope to build a strong foundation in Psychology that I can apply in various settings. Maintaining a high 3.5 GPA will be a priority for me, and I will take responsibility for managing my time well to complete all assignments, projects, and exams successfully.

Scholarship / Psychology and counseling center - Future plan after finishing GKS program [2]

After completing my undergraduate degree in Psychology through the GKS program, I hope to continue living and working in South Korea for some time. In the short term, I plan to actively participate in community outreach programs focused on mental health awareness and youth development. I hope to collaborate with local community centers, schools, and youth groups to organize workshops and seminars that educate young people about mental health, stress management, and healthy coping strategies for daily life challenges. By doing this, I aim to help reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations, both among international students and the local community.

Additionally, I intend to offer free or low-cost coaching sessions or peer support groups for Nigerian students and other international students who may be struggling with pressure from academics, cultural adjustment, or personal life situations. Although there may be cultural and language barriers, I believe that my growing knowledge of psychology and my Korean language skills will enable me to connect with people and provide meaningful support.

Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to pursue a master's degree after completing my undergraduate studies. However, since I am just beginning my journey in psychology, I hope to explore various areas within the field - such as counseling, clinical psychology, child and adolescent development, or community mental health - before deciding which path to follow. As I study, I aim to understand each topic in depth and discover where my passion and strengths truly lie. This exploration will guide me in choosing a specialization that aligns with my purpose and long-term vision.

In the future, I hope to focus my research and practical work on the psychological effects of stress, peer pressure, and difficult life situations faced by teenagers and adults. I want to find effective ways to help people develop resilience, manage emotional challenges, and seek the support they need. While studying in Korea, I plan to gain hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, and student-led mental health initiatives that will prepare me for a meaningful career in psychology.

After completing my studies, I hope to work as a mental health advocate, educator, or counselor who can bridge cultural gaps between Korea and Nigeria. I plan to collaborate with both Korean and Nigerian institutions to design and deliver mental health education programs, youth empowerment projects, and community outreach initiatives. My goal is to break the stigma surrounding mental health and inspire more people to speak up, seek help, and live emotionally healthy lives.

Ultimately, I aspire to open my own counseling center where teenagers and adults especially those who feel unheard or overwhelmed can find a safe and supportive space to express themselves, grow, and heal. I believe this vision will allow me to make a lasting difference in my community and contribute to positive change both in Nigeria and beyond.

From Moderator: Learn to compose proper thread titles!

Scholarship / "Trying new things" - Language study plan before and after Gks [2]

I have always enjoyed trying new things, and learning a new language was one of them. At first, I wasn't sure which language to focus on. But when I discovered the Korean language, something just clicked. I found myself drawn to its structure, the way it's written, the way it sounds-and I was surprised by how naturally I could grasp the basics. Compared to other languages I explored, Korean felt more open and accessible to me. That connection made me decide to take it seriously.

I began studying Korean not just out of curiosity, but because I saw it as a doorway to a new culture and an opportunity I genuinely connected with. Since English is the primary language spoken in my country, my exposure to Korean in daily life has been limited. However, I am committed to improving significantly during the one-year language program offered by my chosen university attending the required classes and dedicating 2-3 hour daily to practice listening, reading and trying to form my own sentences.

In addition, I will continue using online resources like Talk To Me In Korean and YouTube to strengthen my skills. To deepen my understanding, I intend to join a language study group, which I believe is one of the most effective methods for practicing and learning the language.

And I will ensure to participate in cultural activities available during my study in Korea to help me immerse myself in the language and culture. I understand that learning a new language can be challenging, but I am excited to take it on with dedication and enthusiasm. I believe that with consistent effort, I can achieve my goal of thriving in Korea.

Undergraduate / My foundation - Language study plan before and after Gkd [5]

Before Arriving in Korea: Learning a new language has always been something I find exciting and rewarding. Long before I even thought about applying for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), I was drawn to the beauty of the Korean language. I started learning it simply because I enjoyed it and found it fascinating. The more I explored, the more I wanted to understand and communicate in it.
To build my foundation, I turned to resources like TalkToMeInKorean, Coursera, and YouTube, making use of every opportunity to practice. I set a small but meaningful goal for myself: to learn at least three to four new words or a full sentence each day. Over time, these small efforts added up. I also dedicated about an hour daily to practicing-listening, reading, and trying to form my own sentences. This routine became part of my day, and I loved seeing my progress, even if it was just understanding a phrase in a K-drama or recognizing words in a song.

One at a time.