This August, the University of Utah Asia Campus in Songdo, Incheon, welcomed its newest class of students with four days of celebration, connection, and preparation for the semester ahead. From the welcome ceremony to campus tours, advising sessions to dorm check-ins, the Fall 2025 Orientation was all about helping students—and their families—feel right at home.
The week began with a welcome ceremony led by Chief Administrative Officer Gregory Hill, who encouraged students to embrace both the challenges and opportunities ahead. Faculty talks, a lively parent orientation and a first look at the campus gave families the chance to experience the community first-hand.
For many, the event was also a reminder of why they chose the University of Utah Asia Campus in the first place. Arlen Cuello, whose son Caedon is beginning his studies this fall, said,
We’re actually a military family from Camp Humphreys, the largest U.S. overseas military base located in Pyeongtaek, so the University of Utah Asia Campus gives our son the chance to grow more independent while still being close to home. We were thrilled to find an American university right here in Incheon. It feels warm, open and welcoming—just wonderful.”
For some parents, the University of Utah Asia Campus provided reassurance at a time of uncertainty. Ji-won Jang, mother of incoming student Seo-hyun Kim, explained,
Our daughter had already been accepted to study in the U.S., but watching her older sister’s challenges abroad made us hesitate. The University of Utah Asia Campus allows her to start her education in Korea and later transfer to Utah if she’s ready. We believe this will truly be the right path for us.”
Students themselves shared their excitement about joining the campus community. Juwon Oh said,
I graduated from high school in Canada, but I really wanted to return to Korea for college. The University of Utah Asia Campus felt like the perfect fit—it’s located in Korea, but I still get a U.S. education and the same degree as if I were in Salt Lake City. I was also drawn to the variety of programs, especially film and media arts and business, which match my interests. The idea that I can study what I love, connect with students from all over the world, and still be close to home made the University of Utah Asia Campus an easy choice. It feels like the best of both worlds.”
By the end of orientation week, new students were not only registered for classes but also had the chance to meet peers from across the globe, learn tips for daily life in Korea, and even pick up some basic Korean phrases. Hill summed it up best: “Choosing the University of Utah Asia Campus is a wise decision. Here in Songdo’s safe, international environment, students earn the same University of Utah degree while enjoying the support of a close community. We’re excited to see what this class will accomplish.”
At the University of Utah Asia Campus, the Fall 2025 Semester is just beginning—but for these students and their families, it already feels like they are part of something bigger.