News Release

Student’s quest for international understanding leads to Korea

June 30, 2008

Criminal Justice major Stephen Dyson’s ultimate career goal is to practice international law with a focus on either Europe or Asia.

When he learned of an opportunity to study in Korea this summer, he jumped at the chance to expand his knowledge of cultures.

Dyson, a senior scheduled to graduate from Penn State Harrisburg in December, has been chosen from among the college student applicants to attend Pukyong National University in Busan, South Korea from July 7 to 24 as part of its 2008 Cultural Exchange Program.

“The ability to learn and understand about different cultures is a skill that has been lacking as of late in the world,” Dyson says. “More people need to take opportunities such as this one to go out and learn about a different culture. I feel that this trip will not only be an exciting one, but will also further my education.

In addition to individual educational trips such as Dyson’s, Penn State Harrisburg’s Office of International Programs offers an extensive list of international study opportunities to students. In spring 2009, study tours to Brazil, Spain, Rome, and London are offered and there is a journey to Poland in summer 2009.

Dyson adds, “I am currently studying Criminal Justice as my bachelor’s degree. The justice system in all countries has its basis in the culture of its people. By learning the culture of the Korean people, I will be able to better understand their justice system and see the similarities to the justice system here in the United States.”

“Upon graduating from Penn State Harrisburg, I hope to attend law school to study international law with a focus on either Europe or Asia. This trip will broaden my knowledge of world cultures and help me get a foothold into Asian cultures.”

College students from throughout the world will take part in the Pukyong University program which offers an introduction to Korea, its culture, history, and language with all classes taught in English. The Korean university offers up to $1,500 in air fare, a dorm room, and meals to the participants. Dyson has registered for six credits through Penn State Harrisburg in order to receive credit associated with the exchange.

Pukyong National University, with two campuses and 26,000 students, was founded in 1996 as a result of the merger of the National Fisheries University of Busan and Busan National University of Technology. The university has six colleges including a large humanities and social sciences department and eight research institutes.