Jacksonville, AL – For Cara Archer, a 23-year-old senior marketing major from Piedmont, the dream of traveling abroad always seemed just out of reach. The costs and demands of school life had kept her dream on hold, but a unique opportunity at Jacksonville State University (Jax State) changed everything. Motivated by her passion for K-pop and South Korean culture, Cara found her way to South Korea through Jax State’s study abroad program, an adventure she describes as life-changing.
Cara, a first-generation college student, had long been fascinated by South Korean culture and even tried to learn the language on her own. “I had tried to learn the language before, but I only knew basic phrases and how to read Hangul,” she shared. When she discovered Jax State’s partnership with three South Korean universities, she saw it as the perfect chance to pursue her dream. She transferred to Jax State, where she connected with Ingrid Galinat, director of the International House and Programs, and Javier Burrows from the Study Abroad program. Together, they encouraged her to apply for the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship.
The Gilman Scholarship provides financial support to students from limited means, giving them the chance to study or intern abroad and gain skills critical to national security and economic prosperity. The application process was no small feat. “I wrote four essays—statement of purpose, building mutual understanding, follow-on service project, and critical need language. I spent about two months revising and refining them,” Cara explained, relying on Jax State’s writing center for support.
Cara remembers vividly the moment she found out she was accepted into the program. “I was in the Dollar General parking lot, nervous to open the email. When I saw the word ‘accepted,’ my heart jumped, and I cried. I knew this was a trip of a lifetime.” For Cara, the acceptance was not only a personal victory but a point of pride as she paved the way for her family as a first-generation student.
From August 1 to August 23, Cara immersed herself in the vibrant culture of South Korea, supported by the Gilman Scholarship. Her fondest memories came from the friendships she formed, especially with her “Korean buddy,” Minseon, who introduced her to local culture and shared their mutual love for the video game “League of Legends.” “Minseon made me feel very welcome, and I consider her a great friend,” Cara said, reflecting on their shared hours of gaming and listening to music. The two friends hope to reconnect in the future, possibly with a trip to Japan.
Cara’s time in South Korea wasn’t just about sightseeing and learning a new language. She met peers from around the world—students from Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and various parts of the U.S.—and learned about their cultures. “I’ve always been curious about people but never had the chance to ask questions. This trip opened up that possibility for me.” Though saying goodbye at the end of the program was emotional, Cara cherishes the deep bonds she formed. “We all cried, which showed the connections we made beyond cultural differences and language barriers,” she said.
Reflecting on her experience, Cara says her journey has changed her in ways she can’t fully describe, but it has greatly deepened her appreciation for other cultures. Now back in Alabama, she’s eager to share her story and encourage other students to take advantage of study abroad opportunities. “It’s hard to put into words how it changed me, but my appreciation for other cultures has greatly improved,” she said.
Cara’s story, originally reported by Brett Buckner with the JSU media department, is a testament to the transformative power of education and the opportunities that await those willing to dream big.
