Yeungnam Students Build English Skills and Connections at UNO
Twenty students from Yeungnam University in South Korea completed a four-week customized program at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, strengthening their English communication skills while building lasting cross-cultural friendships through immersive academic and community experiences.
- published: 2026/08/24
- contact: Julie Jimenez - International Programs
- phone: 402.554.2604
- email: jsadofsky@unomaha.edu
OMAHA, Nebraska — The University of Nebraska at Omaha recently wrapped up its 2026 Yeungnam University Summer Program, a four-week academic and cultural experience for 20 undergraduate students from South Korea.
The program, offered through UNO’s ongoing partnership with Yeungnam University, combined English-language instruction with opportunities to explore Omaha, work alongside UNO students and practice communication skills in everyday settings.
Yeungnam students participate in a classroom learning session.
Enjoying food at a local restaurant.
A Yeungnam student presents her final presentation for the program.
The Yeungnam group enjoyed going to the Jazz on the Green concert at Turner Park in Omaha.
English Practice Beyond the Classroom
Students took courses in Listening & Speaking and American Culture while participating in conversation-partner meetings, community interviews, field experiences and group projects. Students said the program helped them feel more comfortable using English and trying new things. “I became more confident speaking English and improved my communication skills through daily conversations and class activities,” one participant said.
The program concluded with team presentations on Omaha landmarks and local culture. Students researched their topics, interviewed community members and shared their findings in English with faculty and peers.
The project gave students a chance to use the skills they had developed during the program from research and collaboration to public speaking and English communication.
Learning in Omaha
Students spent time learning English by exploring Omaha and experiencing American culture firsthand. Activities included a city scavenger hunt with Conversation Partners (UNO students), visits to museums and historical landmarks, service activities, neighborhood outings, farmers markets, and community concerts.
Regular meetings with Conversation Partners gave participants a chance to practice English in informal settings and make connections on campus. One student emphasized the value of consistent practice: “Practicing English every day is the best way to improve confidence and communication skills.”
Students commented on how kind people were in Omaha. One student shared, “I learned many things not just about English but about treating people.” All students said they felt supported by the program staff. One student wrote, “Thank you so much for always taking care of us and helping us. I will never forget this experience at UNO.”
Continuing the Partnership
The 2026 summer program builds on the partnership between UNO and Yeungnam University. Through customized programs like this one, UNO connects visiting students with academic, cultural, and community-based learning experiences in Omaha.
International Programs looks forward to welcoming future Yeungnam University students to Omaha and continuing to expand opportunities for global learning through customized academic programs.
For more information, visit our website and contact us at unogap@unomaha.edu.