Translations:대문/158/ko

The exchange study program at NSCAD University was introduced in 1969 as the World Encounter Program in order to help broaden the outlook of NSCAD students. Based on the belief that travel and experiences involving diverse cultures are educationally valuable in an art and design context. Currently NSCAD University has exchange agreements with more than 70 participating institutions in 19 countries. As part of an effort to contribute to the globalization of higher education, NSCAD University and Kookmin University agreed to develop academic and cultural programs in 1996. Year 2016 will mark 20th Anniversary for the academic exchange program between NSCAD University, Canada and Kookmin University, Korea. I believe the fine arts and design is the study of how visual arts give meaning to the life of individuals and society. It is therefore essential for students to understand themselves and the world around them. Immersion into unfamiliar academic and life experiences during an exchange study abroad has helped students effectively develop self-awareness while gaining knowledge of the globalized community. The following quote shows results from an exchange experience at Kookmin University leading this particular student to self–discovery and personal growth. “Having the opportunity to learn and grow in a new and foreign environmentincreased my confidence and gave me an independence I had not had prior to my exchange. This experience also taught me to easily adapt to new situations and industries where I feel unqualified. I truly believe my time at Kookmin was integral in attaining my current position as a Product Designer at Umbra, Toronto, Canada.” (Jade Dumrath, BFA, NSCAD University, 2014) The life as an exchange student at NSCAD University is not only challenging, but, interesting, exciting, enriching, and sometimes life-changing. In addition, the benefit of the exchange program is not limited to the student who has participated. It also provides NSCAD University students with an opportunity to engage in intercultural experiences and insights through interactions with students from Kookmin University. The exchange students enhance the classroom discussions by offering different cultural perspectives despite occasional language barriers. I believe this is a very positive contribution from our exchange program.