Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) Scholar Amisha Flowrence Gomes from Bangladesh Shares Their Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Bachelor's at the Inha University, Republic of Korea

Since childhood, people around me would always ask me what I wanted to become in the future. Deep inside, my answer was always the same: “I want to save the people I love.” As I grew older, I began asking myself an important question: how can I do that?

After considering different paths, I realized that protecting our planet through sustainable development was the most meaningful way I could contribute to the future. Witnessing how pollution, environmental destruction, and unsustainable growth are damaging our world led me to choose Energy Resources Engineering.

I am originally from Bangladesh, a small but densely populated country. After graduating from high school, I decided to pursue higher education abroad to gain global exposure and deeper technical knowledge. At the age of 19, I moved to Korea to study Energy Resources Engineering at Inha University under a fully funded Korean Government Scholarship.

I chose this field because renewable energy is where engineering, sustainability, economics, and the future of humanity intersect. I wanted to contribute meaningfully, even if step by step.

Korean Government Scholarship Program Details

• Scholarship Name: Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), also known as Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) - 2020
• Institution: Inha University, Incheon.
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarship
• Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, settlement allowance, airfare, Korean language training, and insurance coverage

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, Global Foreign Student Support from the university.

Although I received university admissions from Yonsei University (Computer Science Engineering) and Seoul National University (Computer Science Engineering), I accepted the GKS scholarship at Inha University because I wanted to study in an environment where I could grow peacefully and comfortably. While SKY universities are highly prestigious, I researched carefully and found that Inha University had strong engineering programs, especially in energy-related fields. In addition, Incheon’s less crowded and calmer environment felt much more suitable for me after spending 19 years in the busy environment of Bangladesh.)

Educational Background

High School: Bangladesh, Bachelor’s Degree: Energy Resources Engineering, Inha University, Korea, Language Qualification: IELTS 7.5/9.0 (first attempt), TOPIK Level: Level 5

My academic background prepared me strongly for engineering studies. My interest in energy was also influenced by my father’s professional background, which exposed me early to discussions about energy and infrastructure. My engineering curriculum in Korea provided both theoretical knowledge and practical industry-related understanding of renewable systems, energy economics, and sustainability.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Inha University?

How Did You Find Information About the Korean Government Scholarship Program and Inha University?

I researched international scholarships online and carefully reviewed official university and government websites like Study in Korea. Korea was actually the first country I applied to.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, I took the IELTS.

To prepare, I attended an institute and completed some mock exams to fully understand the test structure and timing pressure. However, most of my English proficiency came from school education, self-study, books, movies, and personal interest in learning languages.

I achieved a score of 7.5 on my first attempt.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Korean Government Scholarship Program?

For my Statement of Purpose (SOP), I focused on clarity of purpose. I clearly explained:

• Why I chose my major
• Why I chose Korea
• My long-term career goals

For recommendation letters, I asked two teachers who had known me personally for many years and could honestly describe my academic discipline and character.

I ensured my application reflected not only academic performance but also sincerity, long-term vision, and structured goals.

How is Your Experience at Inha University?

Before starting my bachelor’s degree, I completed one year of Korean language training at Sun Moon University. That period became one of the most important phases of my personal growth.

I experienced cultural shock and language barriers initially. However, learning Korean taught me adaptation, patience, independence, and resilience.

After achieving TOPIK Level 5, I entered Inha University. Although language remained challenging, especially technical engineering terminology, continuous effort helped me overcome those barriers.

Academically, Inha University provided strong theoretical foundations combined with industrial and practical perspectives. Professors were supportive and encouraged participation in field trips and research activities. I never experienced discrimination for being a foreign student.

How Do You Rate Inha University Academically?

I rate it highly, especially in engineering and energy-related programs. The curriculum connected theory with real-world industrial applications, which prepared me well for my career.

How Does Inha University Support International Students?

The international office, professors, and classmates supported international students academically and socially. Although adapting to a Korean academic environment was challenging, the support system helped me grow stronger and more independent.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

Most undergraduate classes were conducted in Korean, but some lecture materials were given in English. Therefore, achieving a high TOPIK level was essential. Also, the professors there were super supportive and helped me even after classes to solve my confusion.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing German?

Mostly yes. For undergraduate programs taught mainly in Korean, strong Korean proficiency is extremely important. Even with TOPIK Level 5, technical vocabulary can be challenging at first. For my first and second year, it was the hardest because I had to study 2 times harder than other students in the class since most terms are related to engineering technical parts and are taught in full Korean.

What Did You Pursue After the Korean Government Scholarship Program?

After graduation, I am currently working in Seoul, Korea, at Hyundai Engineering & Construction (HDEC) in the New Energy division. My work focuses on sustainable green energy development and infrastructure projects.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe clarity of purpose and sincerity made my application stand out. My goals were structured, realistic, and connected to long-term impact. I demonstrated both academic preparation and genuine motivation.

I understand that not every future plan becomes reality exactly as imagined, but I wanted the reviewers to see that I had a structured vision and genuine motivation.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I could change something, I would probably prepare myself mentally earlier for the emotional challenges of studying abroad and keep me away from those late-night mental breakdowns ㅎㅎ. Academically, I prepared carefully, but emotionally, adapting to loneliness, cultural differences, and independent life abroad took longer than expected. However, those experiences also became some of the most valuable lessons of my life.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

For future applicants, my biggest advice would be this: do not underestimate consistency and sincerity. Many students focus only on grades or university rankings, but scholarship applications are also about showing who you are as a person. Have a clear reason for your goals, research your field carefully, and show your genuine story honestly. Also, do not be afraid if your path feels uncertain sometimes. Studying abroad is not simply about academics; it is about growth, adaptation, patience, and discovering who you become in unfamiliar environments.

Looking back now, I realize that my journey from Bangladesh to Korea was never only about earning a degree. It was about becoming stronger, more independent, more patient, and more capable of contributing to a better future through sustainable engineering.