Amal Faheem '23 was born in Kuwait 90 percent deaf. Her lip reading super power was described in a March '22 issue of the SCoop, and in the same piece, Amal laid out her plans to travel alone this summer to South Korea. She made it.
Amal developed a fascination for South Korea while watching South Korean dramas on television, which more consistently offered the closed captioning feature compared to American entertainment. So, when she decided on an international adventure, there was really only one option. Amal took classes this summer at the Yonsei International Summer School in Seoul.
"I came in with an open mind and I was well prepared thanks to all my research about Korea's customs and manners, and still, South Korea constantly amazed me with its advanced technology, gorgeous scenery, delicious food, and kindest people."
Fortunately, the South Korean government relaxed its outdoor mask mandate, which allowed Amal to read lips, though many Koreans continue to wear masks inside and outside. Even so, Amal found it easier to communicate and navigate the city than she expected.
"Masks make it harder for me to comprehend, but thanks to South Korea's advanced technology, I was able to order food through kiosks in English. I was also able to read English signs in bus and subway stations. As a foreigner with hearing loss, I didn't have a problem on my own because of the accessibility of English through visuals."
Amal wanted to push the limits of her independence on the trip, and she did so by completing a checklist of firsts: first time taking a trip by herself, first time navigating public transportation, first time on a yacht, first time haggling, first time taking K-pop dance lessons. She describes her most thrilling "first" below.
"I've always wanted to try paragliding, and what's better than a new adventure in another country! My friends from the program and I went to Yangpyeong, a two-hour drive from Seoul. From there, we got into a truck with our paragliding suits and went up the mountain. It was the shakiest, roughest ride of my life! We made it to the top, and the view of Yangpyeong was gorgeous. When it was time to set off, I expected to feel nervous, but instead, I was full of excitement. Paragliding was a relaxing and thrilling experience, and I would definitely do it again!
I am so grateful for meeting so many wonderful international students through YISS and for experiencing so many memorable moments. I will continue to carry these adventurous days close to my heart!"
Amal Faheem '23
