Episode Notes

🎙️ This Korean Life – Episode with Jess Melvin 🎙️

In this vibrant and thought-provoking episode, we sit down with the incredibly insightful and multi-talented Jess Melvin, whose journey through Korea is filled with culture, challenge, and creativity.

Jess shares her life-changing experience as a Fulbright scholar, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look into what it means to represent your country while living and teaching abroad. From navigating daily life in a traditional Korean homestay 🏠—with all its cultural nuances and touching connections—to standing in front of classrooms as a high school teacher 📚, she brings listeners into the real, unfiltered experience of Korea’s education system.

But Jess’s story doesn't stop at chalkboards and lesson plans. We dive deep into her passion for Korea’s underground rap scene, where she found unexpected belonging, expression, and community 🎤🔥. From dimly lit venues pulsing with bass to late-night freestyle circles, Jess reflects on how hip-hop became a creative outlet and cultural bridge.

We also look ahead to her future goals and evolving perspectives, as she reflects on how her time in Korea has shaped her personally and professionally. Whether you're interested in education, cultural immersion, or the underground music scene, this episode will move, inspire, and maybe even surprise you.

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