Hi everyone,
I was recently accepted into the Yonsei University GSIS (Master of Global Studies) program. I’m planning to focus my studies on energy transition, climate policy, and sustainable development.
However, I didn’t receive any financial aid—meaning no scholarship for living expenses or tuition. Because of this, I am looking at paying:
Tuition per semester: 7,924,000 KRW
One-time admission fee: 1,195,000 KRW
Compared to my home country’s currency (Turkish Lira), this is an incredibly high amount of money. If this investment is truly worth it, I will do everything I can to find a way to fund it. If not, it’s a massive financial risk.
Both a Japanese professor who works in this field and some Turkish students currently living in Korea are telling me that I should look into going to Europe instead. However, I’ve had my heart set on spending 1–2 years in Korea. Still, with people who actually know the region advising against it due to the financial aspect, I’m starting to wonder if I’m just being stubborn. Should I listen to them and pivot toward Europe?
I also have zero Korean language skills at the moment.
For those who graduated from Yonsei GSIS or are currently working in the sustainability/climate sector in East Asia:
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Is it worth the prestige and the cost? Does a degree from Yonsei GSIS actually open doors for a solid career in climate policy and energy transition, either in South Korea or internationally?
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Language Barrier: How realistic is it to find a job or internships in this specific field in Korea without speaking fluent Korean?
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Part-time work/TA positions: Are there realistic opportunities on or off-campus to help offset these tuition costs once I’m there?
I would love to hear any honest advice, reality checks, or insights you might have. Thank you so much!
submitted by /u/ConferenceDry1471
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