B.Sc. Software Engineering Student Dawit Shanko Firisa from Ethiopia Shares His Journey of Studying at Daegu University, South Korea

My name is Dawit Shanko Firisa, and I am from Ethiopia. I am currently studying Software Engineering at Daegu University in South Korea as a recipient of the Global Korea Scholarship.

After graduating from high school, I enrolled at Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia and studied Computer Science for one and a half years. During that time, I was exposed to a strong academic environment that encouraged independent research and curiosity. It was there that I began seriously exploring opportunities to study abroad. I spent a lot of time researching countries, universities with solid reputations, and scholarship programs that could support international students.

Even though I did not complete my degree there, that experience helped shape my academic interests and motivated me to pursue further education internationally.

Global Korea Scholarship Details

I received the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for undergraduate studies at Daegu University.

The scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, settlement allowance, medical insurance, Korean language training, and airfare. It is a fully funded scholarship supported by the Korean government, which makes it highly competitive.

Educational Background

I completed my high school education in Ethiopia. The grading system was quite tough and competitive, so I had to study consistently to maintain strong results. I was not the top student in my class, and I didn’t have perfect scores in international exams or win any olympiad, but I worked hard and stayed disciplined.

After high school, I joined Addis Ababa University and studied Computer Science. That academic background helped me build a solid foundation in mathematics, programming, and logical thinking. It also helped me understand how to prepare academic documents properly and think seriously about my future career path.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Daegu University?

I carefully researched universities, their programs, and the eligibility requirements. I compared departments, language requirements, and curriculum structures.

I also prepared my documents step by step. I made sure every required document followed the exact format stated in the guidelines. I double-checked everything multiple times before submission.

How Did You Find Information About the GKS Scholarship and Daegu University?

Mostly through online research. I read official university websites, embassy announcements, and scholarship platforms.

I also reached out to people directly. I contacted seniors from my high school who were already studying in Korea. I messaged people on LinkedIn and even reached out to random students I found on social media who were studying abroad. Many of them were kind enough to respond and share their experiences. That helped me a lot because I got real, practical advice instead of just formal information.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests?

Yes. I took the SAT and scored 1350. I also took IELTS and scored 6.5.

For preparation, I mostly used online resources, practice tests, and YouTube explanations. I practiced consistently rather than studying in an intense but short period.

After arriving in Korea, I studied Korean seriously during the language year. I was honestly very afraid at first because everything felt new and difficult. But after studying hard and practicing every day, it became manageable. After about four months, I achieved TOPIK Level 4 (Upper Intermediate) with a score of 184/300. That was a big confidence boost for me.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Global Korea Scholarship?

The most important thing I did was read the guidelines very carefully. I followed every instruction strictly, formatting, document order, notarization, everything.

I also participated in different extracurricular activities before applying. I joined competitions, academic programs, and other activities that gave me certificates and additional documents.

Those helped strengthen my application.

I wasn’t the best academically, and I didn’t have perfect international test scores, but I was consistent and very careful with the application process.

How Is Your Experience at Daegu University?

My experience at Daegu University has been good so far. I am currently in my second year (2026). Academically, the teaching is solid, and the professors are supportive.

Even though it’s not considered one of the very top universities in Korea, I really like the learning environment and the atmosphere on campus. It feels comfortable and supportive.

How Do You Rate the Daegu University Academically and Why?

I would say it is good academically. The curriculum is structured well, and professors focus on helping students understand concepts rather than just memorizing content. For me, that matters more than rankings.

How Does Daegu University Support International Students?

The support system is very good. From the Korean language year until major studies, we are guided regularly.

The university organizes trips, cultural activities, and meetings such as lunch or dinner gatherings at least twice per semester, sometimes more. These events help international students feel included and adjust more easily.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean?

Most of my classes are conducted in Korean because more than 95% of the students are Korean. So knowing Korean is very important for academic success and daily life.

What Did You Pursue After the Global Korea Scholarship?

I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering. I am in my second year as of 2026.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing Korean?

Sometimes, yes. Especially in daily life, when society does not speak much English. It can feel tough at the beginning. But it is a matter of time. If you are willing to learn the language and adapt, it becomes easier.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I think it was consistency and attention to detail.

I wasn’t the highest scorer in high school, and I didn’t have perfect SAT or IELTS scores. But I carefully followed every instruction in the guidelines and avoided small mistakes that could weaken the application.

I also submitted additional certificates and documents from activities I participated in. Those experiences showed that I was active beyond academics.

That year, only three students from my country were selected for the scholarship, and I was fortunate to be one of them. I believe that my hard work, discipline, and strict adherence to the rules played a big role in that outcome.

What Would You Have Done Differently?

If I were to go through the process again, I might choose a university where English is the main medium of instruction. I am still happy with my choice, but reaching full fluency in Korean takes a lot of time and effort alongside major studies.

What Advice Would You Give Future Applicants?

Don’t stress too much about being perfect.

Your scores don’t have to be flawless. What matters is that you meet the requirements and present your application clearly and carefully.

Read the guidelines thoroughly. Follow instructions exactly. Submit as many additional certificates or achievements as you can. And don’t be afraid to reach out to people for advice; many are willing to help.