Where in the world is Dana Jo?

Well, if you are reading this, you probably already know that I am in South Korea (!!!). I'm living in Suwon, a city about 20 km south of Seoul, and will be here for at least a year teaching English as a Foreign Language.

I decided to start a blog specifically for family and friends, as I've been told wayyy too many times in the past that I don't keep y'all up t0 date on my adventures. So, I am going to make a whole-hearted attempt to update this blog at least once a week, hopefully with photos in tow. I hope you all enjoy!

Back to business . . . I've already been here for about 4 days, but I feel like I haven't even had a chance to breathe. In addition to wicked jet-lag, there is just so much to do before my first official day of teaching on Friday. I went to the school yesterday to meet all the teachers (my co-teacher Young-shin met me at the airport- she is adorable and AMAZING) and observe a few classes. I'm nervous about teaching, but also really excited. My experiences with teaching in the past have made me want to continue in the field, but I've never really known how to go about it . . .

Anyhow, on top of preparing for Friday, I am busy exploring my new home base. My apartment is adorable (tiny, but adorable nonetheless) and about a 30 minute walk from my school (the bus also goes there, but I have get to brave the Suwon bus system). I will try to upload a few photos of the apartment in the next few days.

Yesterday I went into Seoul and meandered the morning/afternoon away. I think the biggest surprise to me thus far about Korea is the total and complete lack of English. Yes, I knew what I was getting into, and hence the need for my job/me, but I'm not sure I realized the severity of the situation. When I've lived abroad in the past, most everyone knew at least basic English. In India, they learn it from kindergarten, so anyone who has had at least a few years of schooling knows it. In Palestine, and specifically Bethlehem with tourism rife (I like that word- "rife"- it implies something of a communicable disease), people have to know it. But here, no one knows English. Aside, of course, from the schoolboys that run in front of me, scream "HELLO!", and run away . . . Even my Korean co-teacher, whose job it is to teach English, can barely put together a sentence.

I suppose its time I learn Korean . . .

Anyong hi kaseyo,
Dana