Yesterday we had our EPIK Orientation Opening Ceremonies, which included several cultural performances that included a traditional fan dance, a Korean percussion group, and a Tae Kwon Do finale that would have made Jackie Chan pee his pants (see video below).
We officially finished our first full-on day of teacher training here at Jeonju University, and we are already learning quite a bit.
Today's lessons dealt with the Elementary level curriculum we'll be using as well as some helpful reading companions and fun in-class games and activities used to enhance and spark learning.
But nothing could prepare us for what we would experience in our first ever Tae Kwon Do introductory class. These guys are the cats pajamas when it comes to skill and discipline. Needless to say, we were all sweating quite a bit and tending to our wounds after this 90 minute intensive session (see photo below).
One of the other highlights of our time here so far has been meeting all of the other incredible teachers from all across the globe. From Ireland, South Africa, England, Canada, and beyond, our group of friends is growing and our understanding of the world around us is quickly becoming more global.
Sarah has already become a residential rockstar. From being the most fluent Korean speaking teacher in our group to being the ring leader of a late night Karaoke excursion last evening, she has already made quite a name for herself among the other teachers. I'm quite the proud husband these days. :)
All in all we have been incredibly blessed by the friends we've made here and the preparation we are receiving prior to going into the classroom. I am definitely seeing the immense value of this time in training and being in constant and intentional fellowship with people in the same boat as us. It's comforting, to say the least.
Tonight we have our first Korean language class, something I am very much itching to get cracking at.
More to come, but all this to say that God is good, life is good, and this training in so many ways is good.
so glad you're training has finally started! Must be coool to meet others from around the globe who are just as "wet behind the ears" ay you guys, huh? I knew Sarah would head straight forte kareoke bar! Brad, let us know how your first language lesson went, ok? Thanks for letting us join you for the ride!!
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