International Students

We asked the international students of our department about their experiences:

What motivated you to choose the Department of Child Development and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

My background in Human and Family Development, grounded in the human ecological framework, emphasizes holistic, interdisciplinary approaches across the life stages. The niche of the Department of Child Development and Family Studies at Seoul National University aligns with this, making it a key factor in my decision.
Ferlynn Bordeos Recto
(Philippines)
Seoul National University offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of academic disciplines and research areas. When I entered the doctoral program, I knew my field of interest but had not yet decided on a concrete direction, which gave me much to contemplate. The flexibility and diversity of the SNU program allowed me to gain hands-on experience through various projects, ultimately helping me to discover and define my own path.
Iuliia Kim
(Russia)
I was drawn by the department’s strong academic reputation and its commitment to global perspectives and excellence in research and practice.
Wen Jing Zhang
(China)
I was curious about how the meaning of family changes in today’s society and wanted to explore both the everyday experiences within families and the broader systems and policies that influence them. This department offered a space to examine both the micro and macro aspects of family life.
Yunha Kim
(Canada)
With a background in working with children and families, I developed a strong passion for early intervention and wanted to build a deeper foundation through advanced study. I was drawn to Seoul National University not only for its prestigious academics, but also because I was impressed by the impactful research conducted by professors in the Department of Child Development and Family Studies. As someone who has never lived in Korea, I also saw this as a meaningful opportunity to explore my Korean identity and understand the country’s unique social and cultural context. Studying here allows me to connect my personal heritage with my professional goals in supporting children and families.
Young Eun Jeon
(United States of America)

Were there any differences between your expectations of the major prior to enrollment and your actual experiences after entering the program?

The information I gathered about the department provided me with a clear picture. However, experiencing firsthand the flexibility of the laboratories in fostering collaboration was exceptionally impressive.
Ferlynn Bordeos Recto
(Philippines)
At first, I expected to have many opportunities to engage in activities outside of academics, but I was impressed to find that the environment was primarily research-focused. Thanks to this, I was able to immerse myself more deeply in academic topics and concentrate on my research.
Iuliia Kim
(Russia)
Before enrolling, I expected a focus on theory in child development and family dynamics. In reality, the program offers a seamless integration of theory, research, and hands-on experience, including designing and analyzing our own studies.
Wen Jing Zhang
(China)
Yes, I initially thought the major would focus only on children and families in a narrow sense. But I quickly learned that it’s a deeply interdisciplinary field that connects to wider questions about society, development, and policy.
Yunha Kim
(Canada)
Before entering the program, I was a bit intimidated—I knew Seoul National University attracted highly driven students, and I worried about whether I could keep up or if cultural differences might lead to misunderstandings. However, my actual experience has been incredibly reassuring. The professors have been both patient and encouraging, creating an environment where I feel supported in growing academically and personally. My lab mates, in particular, have been genuinely warm and personable, showing not only interest in my academic work but also sincere care for my well-being, which has helped me feel truly welcomed and included.
Young Eun Jeon
(United States of America)

In your view, what are the distinctive strengths of the Department of Child Development and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

The department provides a strong theoretical foundation in child and family development, partnered with practical approaches, as can be seen through its collaboration with various support centers that cater for the needs of families and children.
Ferlynn Bordeos Recto
(Philippines)
I would say it is the program’s flexibility and freedom in course selection. Each semester, I had the opportunity to take a wide range of courses, which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of my academic interests and broaden my scholarly perspective.
Iuliia Kim
(Russia)
Its key strengths lie in its interdisciplinary approach, the strong link between research and practice through fieldwork, and a truly outstanding faculty team.
Wen Jing Zhang
(China)
The faculty’s genuine passion and dedication stand out the most. Their commitment to both students and research is inspiring. The department also offers various workshops and special lectures, which help students grow both academically and personally.
Yunha Kim
(Canada)
One of the most distinctive strengths of the Department of Child Development and Family Studies at Seoul National University is its nurturing and respectful environment. Whether it’s due to the nature of the field or the department’s culture, I’ve consistently felt safe and encouraged to express my thoughts. Throughout my coursework, professors and peers created a space where diverse perspectives are welcomed, which has been essential to my academic growth and confidence. This supportive environment is what makes the department truly stand out.
Young Eun Jeon
(United States of America)

Have you experienced any personal changes since joining the program?

I have always valued interdisciplinary collaboration. Since joining the program, that appreciation has deepened with the department’s support.
Ferlynn Bordeos Recto
(Philippines)
Yes, I have become a more independent and responsible person. In the past, I used to expect clear instructions, but now I have come to realize the importance of taking personal responsibility for my academic journey. This experience has led me to approach each project with greater care and thoughtfulness.
Iuliia Kim
(Russia)
I’ve developed stronger research skills and a more critical, evidence-based mindset, which have deepened my understanding of child development.
Wen Jing Zhang
(China)
Studying family science has encouraged me to reflect more deeply on social issues and relationships. I’ve also developed a stronger appreciation for methodological thinking and the process behind drawing meaningful conclusions from research.
Yunha Kim
(Canada)
Since joining the program, I’ve experienced significant personal and academic growth. The professors, each with deep expertise in diverse areas of child development and family studies, consistently introduced new perspectives that challenged and expanded my thinking. Through each course, I was able to deepen my understanding while also broadening my overall view of the field. This has helped me become more open-minded, thoughtful, and critical thinker in my academic and professional direction.
Young Eun Jeon
(United States of America)

What are the defining characteristics of the Department of Child Development and Family Studies that distinguish it from similar departments or fields?

The department’s collaborative atmosphere is evident not only within the department but also beyond it. The warm and supportive environment has also helped me navigate my new life as a foreign student.
Ferlynn Bordeos Recto
(Philippines)
I believe it is the interdisciplinary approach and openness to collaboration. What makes the program unique is that it does not limit itself to a single field, but actively integrates achievements from various areas of knowledge to meet the needs of contemporary society and conduct research that is relevant to the times.
Iuliia Kim
(Russia)
The department stands out for combining developmental science with policy applications and for its commitment to addressing real-world issues — like digital exposure and inequality — through research-based solutions.
Wen Jing Zhang
(China)
Compared to broader disciplines like sociology or social welfare, this department provides a more focused lens on family relationships. It offers a unique balance between theoretical exploration and practical relevance.
Yunha Kim
(Canada)
One of the defining characteristics of the Department of Child Development and Family Studies is its strong emphasis not just on academic excellence, but on applying knowledge through research and fieldwork to create real-world impact. The department consistently encourages us to ask, “So what?”—pushing us to think about how our work can contribute to better understanding and supporting children and families. This practical, purpose-driven approach sets the department apart from other fields.
Young Eun Jeon
(United States of America)

What kind of individual do you aspire to become?

While I still have a long way to go, I aspire to be someone with the capacity to create more paths for growth and learning. I strongly believe that this journey with the department will bring me closer to becoming the person I aspire to become.
Ferlynn Bordeos Recto
(Philippines)
I aspire to become a professional who not only has deep expertise in my field but can also inspire others. Life is too short to spend on work that does not spark interest, so I hope to pursue my work with passion and share that passion with those around me.
Iuliia Kim
(Russia)
I hope to become a globally-minded advocate for children and families, working to reduce educational inequality through cross-cultural research and evidence-based policies that are both scalable and locally relevant.
Wen Jing Zhang
(China)
I hope to become someone who remains sensitive to the needs of those who are often overlooked, and a scholar who continues to ask meaningful questions in response to a changing world. I’m still learning every day, and I’m thankful for the people in this department who continue to shape how I think and grow.
Yunha Kim
(Canada)
I aspire to become someone who actively bridges research and practice in the field of early intervention. Building on the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained through my doctoral studies at Seoul National University, I hope to critically apply what I’ve learned to support children and families, especially those with varying abilities. I also want to grow as a thoughtful and collaborative professional—someone who not only contributes to the field but shares knowledge with others who share a similar passion, to collectively advance early intervention practices.
Young Eun Jeon
(United States of America)

Ferlynn Bordeos Recto (Philippines)

1. What motivated you to choose the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

My background in Human and Family Development, grounded in the human ecological framework, emphasizes holistic, interdisciplinary approaches across the life stages. The niche of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University aligns with this, making it a key factor in my decision.

2. Were there any differences between your expectations of the major prior to enrollment and your actual experiences after entering the program?

The information I gathered about the department provided me with a clear picture. However, experiencing firsthand the flexibility of the laboratories in fostering collaboration was exceptionally impressive.

3. In your view, what are the distinctive strengths of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

The department provides a strong theoretical foundation in child and family development, partnered with practical approaches, as can be seen through its collaboration with various support centers that cater for the needs of families and children.

4. Have you experienced any personal changes since joining the program?
I have always valued interdisciplinary collaboration. Since joining the program, that appreciation has deepened with the department’s support.
5. What are the defining characteristics of the Department of Child and Family Studies that distinguish it from similar departments or fields?
The department’s collaborative atmosphere is evident not only within the department but also beyond it. The warm and supportive environment has also helped me navigate my new life as a foreign student.
6. What kind of individual do you aspire to become?

While I still have a long way to go, I aspire to be someone with the capacity to create more paths for growth and learning. I strongly believe that this journey with the department will bring me closer to becoming the person I aspire to become.

Iuliia Kim (Russia)

1. What motivated you to choose the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

Seoul National University offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of academic disciplines and research areas. When I entered the doctoral program, I knew my field of interest but had not yet decided on a concrete direction, which gave me much to contemplate. The flexibility and diversity of the SNU program allowed me to gain hands-on experience through various projects, ultimately helping me to discover and define my own path.

2. Were there any differences between your expectations of the major prior to enrollment and your actual experiences after entering the program?

At first, I expected to have many opportunities to engage in activities outside of academics, but I was impressed to find that the environment was primarily research-focused. Thanks to this, I was able to immerse myself more deeply in academic topics and concentrate on my research.

3. In your view, what are the distinctive strengths of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

I would say it is the program’s flexibility and freedom in course selection. Each semester, I had the opportunity to take a wide range of courses, which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of my academic interests and broaden my scholarly perspective.

4. Have you experienced any personal changes since joining the program?
Yes, I have become a more independent and responsible person. In the past, I used to expect clear instructions, but now I have come to realize the importance of taking personal responsibility for my academic journey. This experience has led me to approach each project with greater care and thoughtfulness.
5. What are the defining characteristics of the Department of Child and Family Studies that distinguish it from similar departments or fields?
I believe it is the interdisciplinary approach and openness to collaboration. What makes the program unique is that it does not limit itself to a single field, but actively integrates achievements from various areas of knowledge to meet the needs of contemporary society and conduct research that is relevant to the times.
6. What kind of individual do you aspire to become?

I aspire to become a professional who not only has deep expertise in my field but can also inspire others. Life is too short to spend on work that does not spark interest, so I hope to pursue my work with passion and share that passion with those around me.

Wen Jing Zhang (China)

1. What motivated you to choose the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

I was drawn by the department’s strong academic reputation and its commitment to global perspectives and excellence in research and practice.

2. Were there any differences between your expectations of the major prior to enrollment and your actual experiences after entering the program?

Before enrolling, I expected a focus on theory in child development and family dynamics. In reality, the program offers a seamless integration of theory, research, and hands-on experience, including designing and analyzing our own studies.

3. In your view, what are the distinctive strengths of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

Its key strengths lie in its interdisciplinary approach, the strong link between research and practice through fieldwork, and a truly outstanding faculty team.

4. Have you experienced any personal changes since joining the program?
I’ve developed stronger research skills and a more critical, evidence-based mindset, which have deepened my understanding of child development.
5. What are the defining characteristics of the Department of Child and Family Studies that distinguish it from similar departments or fields?
The department stands out for combining developmental science with policy applications and for its commitment to addressing real-world issues — like digital exposure and inequality — through research-based solutions.
6. What kind of individual do you aspire to become?
I hope to become a globally-minded advocate for children and families, working to reduce educational inequality through cross-cultural research and evidence-based policies that are both scalable and locally relevant.

Yunha Kim (Canada)

1. What motivated you to choose the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

I was curious about how the meaning of family changes in today’s society and wanted to explore both the everyday experiences within families and the broader systems and policies that influence them. This department offered a space to examine both the micro and macro aspects of family life.

2. Were there any differences between your expectations of the major prior to enrollment and your actual experiences after entering the program?

Yes, I initially thought the major would focus only on children and families in a narrow sense. But I quickly learned that it’s a deeply interdisciplinary field that connects to wider questions about society, development, and policy.

3. In your view, what are the distinctive strengths of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

The faculty’s genuine passion and dedication stand out the most. Their commitment to both students and research is inspiring. The department also offers various workshops and special lectures, which help students grow both academically and personally.
4. Have you experienced any personal changes since joining the program?
Studying family science has encouraged me to reflect more deeply on social issues and relationships. I’ve also developed a stronger appreciation for methodological thinking and the process behind drawing meaningful conclusions from research.
5. What are the defining characteristics of the Department of Child and Family Studies that distinguish it from similar departments or fields?
Compared to broader disciplines like sociology or social welfare, this department provides a more focused lens on family relationships. It offers a unique balance between theoretical exploration and practical relevance.
6. What kind of individual do you aspire to become?
I hope to become someone who remains sensitive to the needs of those who are often overlooked, and a scholar who continues to ask meaningful questions in response to a changing world. I’m still learning every day, and I’m thankful for the people in this department who continue to shape how I think and grow.

Young Eun Jeon (United States of America)

1. What motivated you to choose the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

With a background in working with children and families, I developed a strong passion for early intervention and wanted to build a deeper foundation through advanced study. I was drawn to Seoul National University not only for its prestigious academics, but also because I was impressed by the impactful research conducted by professors in the Department of Child and Family Studies. As someone who has never lived in Korea, I also saw this as a meaningful opportunity to explore my Korean identity and understand the country’s unique social and cultural context. Studying here allows me to connect my personal heritage with my professional goals in supporting children and families.

2. Were there any differences between your expectations of the major prior to enrollment and your actual experiences after entering the program?

Before entering the program, I was a bit intimidated—I knew Seoul National University attracted highly driven students, and I worried about whether I could keep up or if cultural differences might lead to misunderstandings. However, my actual experience has been incredibly reassuring. The professors have been both patient and encouraging, creating an environment where I feel supported in growing academically and personally. My lab mates, in particular, have been genuinely warm and personable, showing not only interest in my academic work but also sincere care for my well-being, which has helped me feel truly welcomed and included.

3. In your view, what are the distinctive strengths of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University?

One of the most distinctive strengths of the Department of Child and Family Studies at Seoul National University is its nurturing and respectful environment. Whether it’s due to the nature of the field or the department’s culture, I’ve consistently felt safe and encouraged to express my thoughts. Throughout my coursework, professors and peers created a space where diverse perspectives are welcomed, which has been essential to my academic growth and confidence. This supportive environment is what makes the department truly stand out.
4. Have you experienced any personal changes since joining the program?
Since joining the program, I’ve experienced significant personal and academic growth. The professors, each with deep expertise in diverse areas of child and family studies, consistently introduced new perspectives that challenged and expanded my thinking. Through each course, I was able to deepen my understanding while also broadening my overall view of the field. This has helped me become more open-minded, thoughtful, and critical thinker in my academic and professional direction.
5. What are the defining characteristics of the Department of Child and Family Studies that distinguish it from similar departments or fields?
One of the defining characteristics of the Department of Child and Family Studies is its strong emphasis not just on academic excellence, but on applying knowledge through research and fieldwork to create real-world impact. The department consistently encourages us to ask, “So what?”—pushing us to think about how our work can contribute to better understanding and supporting children and families. This practical, purpose-driven approach sets the department apart from other fields.
6. What kind of individual do you aspire to become?
I aspire to become someone who actively bridges research and practice in the field of early intervention. Building on the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained through my doctoral studies at Seoul National University, I hope to critically apply what I’ve learned to support children and families, especially those with varying abilities. I also want to grow as a thoughtful and collaborative professional—someone who not only contributes to the field but shares knowledge with others who share a similar passion, to collectively advance early intervention practices.