When Siyeon Lee and An Nayeon, two International Trade majors from Keimyung University in Korea, arrived in Bacolod City for a six-month exchange program at the University of St. La Salle (USLS), they expected to gain academic credits. Instead, they left with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the power of marketing thanks to the outstanding Marketing Department at USLS.
What began as a nervous transition into a new country and culture quickly turned into a fun and enriching adventure. "When I first arrived in Bacolod, everything felt unfamiliar yet filled with excitement," Siyeon shared in her journal. "As time passed, that excitement gradually transformed into a strong sense of purpose in learning."
From the very start, USLS stood out for its lively, engaging, and student-centered learning environment. Nayeon, who was initially concerned about language barriers and being the only foreign student in class, quickly felt at home. "Thanks to the support and kindness of my professors and classmates, I was able to complete the semester without major difficulties," she said. "Their energy and positivity were contagious."
Siyeon and Nayeon both discovered that marketing at USLS went far beyond the usual textbook lessons. Frequent quizzes kept them alert while hands-on projects challenged them to apply their knowledge in creative and practical ways.
One highlight for Siyeon was a project where her team introduced Korean culture to Filipino students through a fun and interactive performance. "We recreated scenes from K-dramas and performed K-pop songs and dances," she said. "It wasn’t just a presentation. It became a platform for cultural exchange and connection."
Another meaningful project involved creating a marketing strategy that involves foreign relations, which to Siyeon was a “class that made me realize that marketing is, at its core, is about connecting people."
Nayeon also had a favorite project in her Advertising class. Her team created a full commercial video, handling everything from planning and shooting to editing. "It gave me a deeper understanding of how advertising is created," she shared. "It was a hands-on experience I had never encountered before."
The classroom atmosphere at USLS was another pleasant surprise. Discussions were active, presentations were full of energy, and teamwork was natural. "Compared to my experience in Korea, where classes are quieter and formal, the vibrant and engaging environment at La Salle was refreshing," said Nayeon.
Both students agreed that the USLS Marketing Department gave them more than academic knowledge. It taught them new ways to think, collaborate, and communicate. "Thanks to the warm-hearted people of Bacolod and the open, inclusive atmosphere at USLS, I gained a fresh perspective on marketing," said Siyeon.
As she summed it up beautifully, "Marketing is strategy and emotion. When all of these are combined to make someone’s life a little easier or happier, that’s what true marketing is. That’s what I learned here."
For Nayeon, the experience was unforgettable. "My exchange experience at La Salle is something I will never forget."
Their time at USLS proves that marketing is more than selling products. It is about building connections, telling stories, and making an impact. The exchange program at USLS is a great opportunity for any international student. With engaging classes, real-world projects, and a community that makes you feel at home, fitting in is never a problem. Siyeon and Nayeon’s experience shows that when learning is filled with care, creativity, and connection, it becomes something you carry with you forever.