Sahmyook University in Seoul, South Korea, is collaborating with Pacific Union College (PUC) in Angwin, California, United States, to enhance the program of both colleges by providing transfer opportunities for undergraduate students. This collaboration will establish a program of academic and research cooperation to contribute their resources to strengthen international education. Sahmyook University president Il Mok Kim and PUC president Ralph Trecartin met on November 7, 2022, to officially approve this agreement. 

During their meeting, both presidents spent a few hours discussing multiple levels of involvement between their institutions. “There was a very innovative, positive spirit between the two groups of leaders looking for new and better ways for two well-established Adventist colleges to work together,” ​​Gene Edelbach, PUC vice president for enrollment, marketing and communication, said. 

A few years ago, Trecartin stopped by Sahmyook University for a church service and to see the campus. As a visitor, he was amazed by the Bible studies going on everywhere and “loved the intentional way they interacted with each person that came through the door. 

“I was treated as family and invited for Bible Study, sermon, and lunch even though I had no connection with the university at that time,” Trecartin said. “Sahmyook University is at the forefront in combining educational excellence with spiritual mission.”

Commencing on January 1, 2023, the collaboration will last five years and may extend by mutual agreement. Sahmyook University is accredited by the Seventh-day Adventist Accrediting Association, as is PUC. The collaboration also includes the exchange of professors. For students to qualify, they must be enrolled in a degree program at their university for at least one academic year, school leaders reported.

Student benefits include a U.S.-based educational experience that builds on any resume, as well as opening up better access to U.S. graduate school opportunities. PUC urges its students to consider a year of student missions or at least a term studying abroad. Now some students have the opportunity to study in one of the most modern and interesting countries in the world at a sister Seventh-day Adventist institution of great quality.

“We are looking forward to ongoing collaborative efforts and to see many well-qualified students from South Korea come to our campus for a unique PUC experience,” Trecartin said. “We are anticipating making many new friends as we work with our colleagues at Sahmyook and as we receive their students.”

“Pacific Union College is grateful for this opportunity to welcome more students, nourish the institution’s mission, and serve through this partnership,” PUC leaders said. 

The original version of this story was posted on the Pacific Union College news site.