Master’s Computer Science and Engineering Student Leisha Ravindra Babu from India Shares Her Journey of Studying in South Korea, South Korea

My name is Leisha Ravindra Babu, and I am from India. I am currently a Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) scholar completing my Korean language year at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) in South Korea. Beginning in September, I will start my Master’s program in Computer Science and Engineering.

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering at Christ (Deemed to be University) in India. My interest in technology began very early in my life. My mother, who was a graphic designer, often worked on her laptop for hours, bringing ideas to life on the screen. Watching her work fascinated me. I would constantly ask questions about how computers worked and how ideas could be transformed into something real through technology.

After she passed away, computers became more than just machines to me. They became a connection to the curiosity she had inspired in me. That early sense of wonder eventually guided me to choose Computer Science over Biology in high school, and it has remained the field I feel most passionate about.

Global Korea Scholarship Details

I received the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) from the Government of South Korea to pursue my Master’s degree at Sungkyunkwan University.

The scholarship provides full tuition coverage, Korean language training, airfare, health insurance, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.

The GKS program supports international students who wish to pursue higher education in South Korea while encouraging academic exchange and cultural understanding between countries.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering from Christ (Deemed to be University) in Bangalore, India.

During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, especially in areas where technology can help solve real-world problems. Through coursework and projects, I explored topics such as machine learning, computer vision, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

One experience that shaped my perspective was working on a voice-based railway station navigation system for visually impaired individuals as part of a service learning program. Interacting with the people who would use the system helped me understand how thoughtful technology can improve independence and accessibility.

Experiences like this gradually led me toward pursuing AI research with a focus on technologies that can create meaningful social impact.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)?

I spent time researching universities in South Korea and learning about scholarship opportunities through official university websites, the GKS website, and student communities online.

My interest in studying in South Korea also grew after visiting the country and meeting graduate students who were pursuing computer science degrees here. Hearing about their experiences gave me a clearer understanding of the research culture and academic environment.

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

Yes. I took the IELTS examination and received a C2 level score, which demonstrated my proficiency in English for academic study. I used the IELTS guides to prepare for it and Youtube which was really helpful.

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

Preparing for the GKS application took time and careful thought. I spent a lot of time reflecting on my experiences and thinking about how they shaped my goals.

I focused on writing a personal statement that honestly explained my motivations, gathering strong recommendation letters from professors who knew my work well, and organizing my academic documents carefully.

More than anything, I tried to make sure that my application clearly showed why I wanted to pursue graduate study in South Korea and how it connects to the kind of work I hope to do in the future.

How Was Your Experience at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)?

My experience at Sungkyunkwan University has been extremely positive so far.

The Korean language program has been rigorous but rewarding. Studying alongside students from different countries has allowed me to experience a truly international academic environment while also improving my Korean language skills.

Living in South Korea has also been a meaningful cultural experience. The kindness and warmth I have received from people here have made my transition much easier.

How Do You Rate Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Academically and Why?

Academically, Sungkyunkwan University has an excellent reputation. The university has strong research output in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, and Machine Learning, and many laboratories collaborate closely with industry.

This research-driven environment is one of the main reasons I chose to pursue my Master’s here.

The Sungkyunkwan Language Institution is also highly reputed and has an excellent curation of levels to suit the students’ pace. The teachers are also incredibly helpful.

How Does Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Support International Students?

SKKU provides strong support systems for international students, including: Dedicated international student offices, Korean language programs, Cultural exchange activities, Academic advising and support.

These resources help international students adapt both academically and socially.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean?

Many graduate-level Computer Science courses are conducted in English, although some courses may also be offered in Korean.

The Korean language year provided through the GKS scholarship helps students build the language skills needed to live and study comfortably in Korea.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing Korean?

For most graduate programs in engineering and computer science, English proficiency is usually sufficient for coursework and research.

However, learning Korean is extremely helpful for daily life, networking, and cultural integration. It also helps students build stronger relationships with professors and peers.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe several aspects helped strengthen my application:

• Clear motivation for studying Computer Science and conducting research
• Strong research experience and conference publications
• Projects focused on real-world impact, such as accessibility technology for visually impaired individuals
• A genuine connection to South Korea, developed through prior visits and language learning
• A well-defined long-term vision combining research, industry, and international collaboration

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

If I were applying again, I would probably start the application process even earlier and spend more time reaching out to potential research advisors.

Building connections with professors and understanding lab research earlier can help applicants better align their goals with specific research groups.

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

Start early – preparing documents and writing essays takes time.

Be your authentic self – admissions committees appreciate sincerity.

Highlight meaningful experiences, not just achievements.

Research the universities and labs carefully so that your goals align with them.

Write about your long-term vision and how the scholarship will help you create impact.

Goodluck and believe in yourself!