Melissa Lozada is a student of Graphic Design, she is currently in her fourth semester and is part of the King Sejong Institute, the only center authorized by South Korea to teach the language in Ecuador.
She recently participated virtually in the Korean language speaking and writing contest organized by the aforementioned institution. The objective of the event was to evaluate and motivate the students' constant learning.
Melissa Lozada and Christian Moreno stood out in the contest. Melissa won the public speaking contest; while Christian Moreno won the writing contest.
How did you become interested in joining the King Sejong Institute of ESPOL?
My interest arose after taking the Korean complementary subject, which only covers level I. I wanted to continue learning Korean. I wanted to continue learning Korean, so I enrolled in the King Sejong Institute. Also, since the Guayaquil branch is located in ESPOL, it gives me the opportunity to attend after my classes.
Tell us about your experience and participation in the contest and how it developed.
The contest is held every year for students from all King Sejong Institutes around the world. Last year there was a contest in which I did not participate so I decided to participate in this edition. It was a new experience, first because of the situation of the country, the contest had to be online and second because it was the first time speaking about my dreams in a language that I do not master yet. I was very happy to participate because I was able to put my knowledge into practice in a totally different way than usual and it motivates me to be part of future contests.
What motivated you to choose to learn Korean?
In 2017 I entered the world of k-dramas, kpop and I was very attracted by its language, culture, among other things. My sister motivated me to study Korean to take advantage of what I was seeing and practice.
What contribution do you feel that learning this language brings to your academic life?
I think a good contribution would be more options for a master's degree abroad or even an exchange. Ecuador and South Korea have intensified their political and commercial relations. Korea has several study options not only for the educational sector but also for the public sector.
How do you project the importance of knowing this language for your professional life?
I have always thought that it is necessary to know several languages for professional life, apart from having a good portfolio. It also broadens the job offer and also that South Korea is currently one of the most innovative countries in the world with a strong growing economy. I have no doubt that the relevance of this country will increase much more in the future.
Are you currently studying other languages?
At the moment I am only studying Korean, but it is in my plans to learn Mandarin later on. I would also like to add that Korean is a very interesting language starting from how it was created and it is not that difficult to learn. The Korean culture is also very striking and interesting so it is worth knowing a little more about it.
06/01/2020
