Interview series: Meet....Heather Jackson

Have you ever met those people who bring a sense of calm with them wherever they go? Well, Heather is one such person. This lady is cool, calm and collected and steers far away from DRAMA. She can keep you captivated with her detailed stories and provide a good listening ear in times of need.

Not only does she love organising trips but she is also a history lover, who is passionate about the struggle history of her beloved country.

  

Name: Heather Jackson

Instagram: heathernicole_za

Home country: South Africa (Cape Town)

Countries you’ve visited: Thailand, Malaysia

How long have you been in the current country: About 8 months

As long as I got my backpack, I can go anywhere...

Why did you come to Korea to teach English?

I needed a change of scenery and I’d been wanting to travel. I had a few Korean friends when I was younger and they used to visit Korea during the holidays then come back to school and tell me about their home country and it made me incredibly curious.

Rolling through the hood up to no good...hahaha

How has the experience of the country been so far?

It definitely has its ups and downs but it has mostly been a positive experience. The people here are both very friendly and helpful and there is a huge expat community which comes in handy when the inevitable homesickness hits.

How has the teaching experience been so far?

My teaching experience has been quite pleasant. I 

teach grades 3 – 6 and have two co-teachers. The students seem keen to learn. It’s especially wonderful when they use the expressions you have taught them outside of class – it’s a rewarding experience.

Wow, FINALLY, some English books!

How has it been adjusting to the new environment?

I get incredibly homesick sometimes. I come from a

multi-cultural country where many languages are spoken and I miss hearing all these languages. When I get homesick though, I reward myself in minor ways like buying myself a coffee from my favourite coffee spot or watching shows from back home or just going to sit by the beach.

My favourite place...

How is Korea different from your home country?

Korea is homogenous compared to South Africa, most people here speak the same language and have had the same or similar cultural upbringing. Things in Korea also seem to be incredibly efficient which can sometimes be like a breath of fresh air in comparison to South Africa’s laid-back nature.

Recently, I went to a Fireworks festival and although I was anxious because of the large crowds, that anxiety went away as I saw the spectacular display. It was really magical and nothing like I've seen before.

What do you miss from your home country?

The food for sure! I miss the stews that I grew up

eating and the braais we used to have. I also miss the languages. I speak 2 languages – Afrikaans being my 2^nd language- and I miss hearing my 2^nd language especially.

Out and about in Seoul.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking of moving abroad but is afraid?

My advice would be to take the plunge. If you don’t

like it, you can move onto the next place or you return home. You’ll never know though until you take the plunge.

                                   ...

Favourites:

Food & Drink: Tteokbokki and beer

City: Busan!

Place in your city: Haeundae and Dongbaek Island!

Restaurant: I don’t know what it’s called but it’s in Shinsegae Mall.

Song: DEAN ft Baek Yerin – Come Over

Activity to do on weekends: Get coffee and wander around Haeundae beach.