In a significant stride towards international collaboration, Panpacific University and Dongseo University of Korea recently inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), ushering in the U-Start Program. This innovative initiative seeks to cultivate a global mindset among first year DSU students, offering them a transformative academic experience while promoting cross-cultural understanding.

(In the photos, from left: Dongseo University President Jekuk Chang, Ph.D., J.D., and Panpacific University Chief Operating Officer Engelbert C. Pasag, Ph.D.,signing the Memorandum of Agreement on the 28th day of November 2023.)

The purpose of the said agreement is to create an impact in terms of cooperation from others. universities while the mission of the program is to support first-year Filipino students as they start their academic journey. Fresh out of high school, these students often grapple with academic transitions, language barriers, cultural differences, stress, financial concerns, and more.

At the heart of the U-Start Program is a study abroad credit-exchange initiative, allowing first- year students to spend a year at Panpacific University and continue the remaining three years at Dongseo University. This international exposure not only broadens their academic horizons but also fosters a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures. The credits earned during their stay will be duly recognized and seamlessly transferred to their home institution, ensuring a smooth continuation of their academic journey.

What sets this program apart is the reciprocal nature of the agreement. Filipino students meeting the program's qualifications now can become international students at Dongseo University in Busan, South Korea. Dongseo University, in turn, will permit its first-year students enrolled in the U-Start Program to spend their initial year at Panpacific University as exchange students. This reciprocal arrangement not only enriches the academic experience but also creates lasting connections between students from both institutions. Some of the offered courses that students may take in Dongseo University are Global Business Administration, Korean Language and Business, Computer Science, Animation, Film & Visual Effects, or Digital Design.

Furthermore, the U-Start Program emphasizes inclusivity, as students must be regularly enrolled at their home institution to qualify. This ensures that the benefits of this global initiative are accessible to a wide range of motivated students seeking a transformative educational experience.

For aspiring Filipino students eager to explore the world through education, the Office of Internationalization and Partnerships at Panpacific University serves as the gateway to this enriching opportunity. This collaborative effort between Panpacific University and Dongseo University not only enhances the educational journey of participating students but also strengthens the bonds of global cooperation.

The U-Start Program is not just about academic exchange; it's a catalyst for fostering a generation of globally aware and interconnected individuals who will contribute positively to the world.

(The Memorandum of Agreement was signed at Siam University, Bangkok Thailand.)