CAPS Digital Humanities Summer Program

Students Collaborate Across Cultures and Disciplines

In summer 2026, CAPS welcomed two students from Sejong University in South Korea: English Language majors Doyeon Kang and Woojin Han. While enrolled in the Intensive English for Communication program at SDSU’s American Language Institute, Doyeon and Woojin joined SDSU students Haley Rodales Ceja (Asian Studies) and Carissa Clarke (Sociology & Anthropology) as well as Sihu Ahn (Canyon Crest Academy) in the CAPS Digital Humanities Summer Program. Working alongside one another at the SDSU Digital Humanities Center, the students learned the fundamentals of audio production and digital storytelling. Doyeon, Woojin, and Carissa each produced podcast episodes exploring South Korea, published under S2 Podcast: Korean Culture through Student Voices. Meanwhile, Haley and Sihu created vibrant and charming videos, Haley documenting her study abroad adventures in Korea and Sihu explaining cultural meanings in two masks from a popular Korean show, King of Masked Singer. 

Explore Their Digital Storytelling Projects

Reflections on the Summer Program

Woojin Han

If someone had told me a year ago that I would spend my summer studying in California, I wouldn't have believed them. Now that my time here is coming to an end, I can honestly say it has been one of the best experiences of my life.

When I first arrived in San Diego, navigating daily life entirely in English felt overwhelming. However, my teachers, classmates, and homestay family made the transition remarkably seamless. Living with my host family was a true highlight—sharing meals, exchanging cultural perspectives, and watching sunsets by the ocean showed me early on that studying abroad is about far more than just language learning. Outside of class, I loved exploring San Diego's vibrant neighborhoods, beautiful beaches, and especially its taco shops—a passion I will definitely carry back home to Korea!

The IEC program at SDSU built my confidence every day. Practicing with classmates from all over the world taught me that genuine communication isn't about perfection, but simply having the courage to start a conversation.

Another major highlight of my time at SDSU was the opportunity to complete a short internship at the CAPS under the guidance of Professor Minjeong Kim. Although brief, it gave me invaluable experience within an international academic environment and allowed me to engage with my studies from a whole new perspective. Simultaneously, working with the Digital Humanities Center at the SDSU Library allowed me to help create podcast and YouTube content introducing Korean college life to American students. Being able to share my own culture while learning from others made the experience deeply meaningful.

Ultimately, this summer taught me that studying abroad is really about stepping out of your comfort zone, embracing new cultures, and growing in ways you never expected. I am returning home with unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and a completely fresh perspective. If you ever have the chance to study abroad, take it—it just might change your life.

Doyeon Kang

The Sejong-SDSU Exchange Program was far more than just work experience; they were invaluable opportunities to learn, build meaningful connections, and grow. In addition to taking language courses in the mornings, interning at the CAPS, and learning audio production at the Digital Humanities Center in the afternoons allowed me to apply my English skills in real-world settings. It was deeply rewarding to experience every stage of content creation—from brainstorming podcast topics and conducting research to writing scripts, recording, editing, and finalizing the project.
I am sincerely grateful to Professor Kyunglang Lee (Sejong University) and Professor Minjeong Kim (SDSU) for providing this opportunity and generous support.

My heartfelt thanks also go to the American Language Institute staff for their warm welcome, as well as Pam Lach and Patrick Flanigan at the Digital Humanities Center for their thoughtful mentorship. I also want to thank my fellow students—Haley, Carissa, and Sihu—for their collaboration and camaraderie during our meetings and projects.

Throughout the internship, I strived to approach every task with initiative and responsibility. Editing the podcast taught me meticulous attention to detail, while collaborating in English underscored the importance of clear communication. Beyond the work itself, sharing meals—like trying Filipino food together—and learning about each other’s cultures made this experience truly special.
This program taught me the value of a proactive, growth-oriented mindset. I will carry the valuable lessons, cherished connections, and warm memories from this summer with me as I continue to learn and grow with a grateful heart. Thank you!