Korean Students Explore American Culture
May 08, 2026 Written by Kaitlyn Diehl | Ana Kim
This past January, we welcomed Korean students through the American Culture and Communication (ACC) program for three and four weeks. The students experienced language and cultural immersion both in the classroom and through excursions to Washington D.C., sports games, UD events and more.
To help students engage with American culture while learning English, we offered the following unique coursework: Cross-cultural Discussions, Reading Cluster and Travel Cluster.
Cross-Cultural Discussion Sessions
Through cross-cultural discussion sessions, students explored both key aspects of American culture and everyday experiences best understood through direct interaction with people living in the United States. Special guests included UD students studying the Korean language under Sunim Yoon, assistant professor of Korean Studies and World Music, as well as Amanda Man, a PhD student in the School of Education who was invited by ELI program assistant, Zhixian Zhuan.
These interactions created opportunities for meaningful peer exchange and exposure to diverse cultural perspectives. Topics such as social media, sports and holidays encouraged dialogue across backgrounds. Students were particularly fascinated by Man’s experience as a first-generation immigrant. She shared how American holidays serve as a bridge for cultural connection.
Reading Cluster
During the reading cluster, students read "Farmer Boy" by Laura Ingalls Wilder. This small-group discussion format provided students with opportunities to practice reading skills in a supportive setting, with a focus on comprehension, vocabulary development and pronunciation. The cluster was led by ELI tutor Susan Foy, who provided historical context throughout the reading, allowing students to engage with the cultural roots of American life through literature.
Travel Cluster
One of the primary goals of many students studying abroad in the United States is to travel and explore different regions. The travel cluster, facilitated by ELI tutor Kristin Grant, supported students in planning trips and navigating travel logistics. Drawing on her extensive travel experience, Grant guided students in planning visits to nearby cities such as Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. Students also learned how to use local bus systems and train services, which are essential for traveling without a car. The cluster emphasized safety awareness and aimed to build students’ confidence as independent travelers, both within the United States and beyond.
