EMILY MUNOZ

Over the month of July, I was granted the incredible opportunity to intern through Acopia’s Internship Program, and it has truly been one of the most valuable and unforgettable experiences of my life. As someone with a passion for digital media and communications, this internship was not only professionally enriching but also personally meaningful.

Throughout the program, I gained hands-on experience in design marketing and social media management. I was able to take part in creative projects that challenged me to think strategically and visually. From designing graphics and writing captions, I learned how to adapt my creativity to a professional setting. These are real-world skills that I know will help me in my future goals, especially as I prepare to take on the role of social media manager for my school’s mascot back in the United States. I now feel more confident in my ability to run engaging social media accounts, create cohesive branding, and communicate effectively with an online audience. I also had the opportunity to begin building my portfolio, which I know will be a great asset as I continue my journey in marketing and digital communication.

One of my biggest concerns before coming to Korea was the fear of missing out on everything the country has to offer because of work commitments. However, the management team at Acopia was incredibly understanding and supportive. They provided me with a well-balanced schedule that allowed me to be productive during my internship hours while also giving me the freedom and flexibility to explore the culture, food, and beauty of South Korea. This made a huge difference in my overall experience.

The location of Acopia House was another great advantage. It’s situated near the lively Hongdae area, which is known for its youthful energy, street performances, trendy shops, and delicious food. It’s also close to several convenient bus and train stations, which made it easy to travel across Seoul and even to nearby cities. I was able to explore palaces, parks, neighborhoods, and even try unique local dishes that I had only seen online before. Getting to experience Korean culture firsthand while also growing professionally was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The location of Acopia House was another great advantage. It’s situated near the lively Hongdae area, which is known for its youthful energy, street performances, trendy shops, and delicious food. It’s also close to several convenient bus and train stations, which made it easy to travel across Seoul and even to nearby cities. I was able to explore palaces, parks, neighborhoods, and even try unique local dishes that I had only seen online before. Getting to experience Korean culture firsthand while also growing professionally was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Acopia House itself felt like a second home. It was clean, spacious, and most importantly, safe. This was my first time living without my family, as I am only 18 years old, so naturally I was a bit nervous before arriving. But the welcoming atmosphere of the house and the kindness of the other interns—especially the girls I lived with—made the transition much easier. It felt comforting to have a small support system while living abroad. Sharing this journey with others made it even more special and memorable.

Reflecting on this past month, I’ve realized just how much I’ve grown. I’ve developed new professional skills, improved my communication, become more independent, and gained a deeper understanding of Korean culture and work ethic. I’m incredibly thankful to the entire team at Acopia for making this experience possible and for supporting me throughout the journey. They truly care about their interns and create an environment that promotes learning, creativity, and personal development.

This internship has opened my eyes to new possibilities and has inspired me to continue exploring international opportunities in the future. I would highly recommend the Acopia Internship Program to anyone looking for a unique, enriching, and supportive way to gain experience in marketing, communications, or international cultural exchange. I’ll carry these lessons and memories with me for a long time—and I hope to return to Korea one day, perhaps as a professional in the very field this internship helped introduce me to.

Thank you, Acopia, for everything.