Thinking Bigger: Cian O’Connor’s Study Abroad Experience in Seoul

For Cian O’Connor (BFA ​’26), studying abroad wasn’t just a box to check on the path to graduation; it was a personal challenge and a chance to see the world through a different creative lens. Having never left North America before, Cian was eager to explore a culture completely new to him. When the opportunity arose to join the Stamps Summer in Seoul program, he saw it as the perfect moment to step outside his comfort zone and immerse himself in a city known for its design, innovation, and artistic energy.

Over the course of the month-long program, Seoul became both his classroom and his muse. From the small details of daily life, umbrellas carried under the summer sun, the hum of portable fans, the quiet beauty of traditional architecture, to the sweeping modern skyline, every moment sparked new ideas and observations. The blend of old and new, nature and technology, reminded him how design and art can coexist across generations and cultures.

Learning from Creative Lives

One of the most memorable experiences came during a visit to a local artist’s studio. Led by the professor, the class met a former student who had built a sustainable creative practice entirely on his own. Seeing how a young artist was making a living through personal expression offered Cian a glimpse of his own future possibilities. It was a tangible reminder that creative success isn’t confined to one place; it can be built anywhere with vision and persistence.

That encounter, along with his coursework and daily exploration, shifted how Cian thought about his own art. He began approaching his work with a more professional mindset, seeing each project not just as a technical exercise, but as a chance to apply his skills in real-world contexts. Seoul challenged him to think more expansively about his creative path and the kind of artist he wanted to become.

Growth Beyond the Studio

Life in Seoul also came with its fair share of challenges, including navigating without consistent cell service, adapting to language barriers, and learning to rely on intuition and observation more than words. Each hurdle, however, reinforced his confidence and adaptability. Cian discovered that stepping into the unknown often leads to the most rewarding growth.

By the end of the program, he had gained not only a deeper appreciation for global perspectives in art and design but also a renewed sense of independence. Experiencing life in another country reshaped his perspective on his own creative practice and his potential.

Bringing It All Home

Now back at Stamps, Cian continues to carry the lessons from Seoul into his work. The experience has pushed him to think bigger, take risks, and pursue projects that challenge his assumptions. Whether he’s experimenting with new materials or exploring ambitious concepts, that month abroad continues to inspire him to expand his creative boundaries. ​“My time abroad gave me the confidence to take on projects that feel like a challenge,” he reflects. ​“It reminded me that art grows when you do.”

Advice for Future Travelers

For students considering studying abroad, Cian’s advice is simple: don’t hesitate. Research the options, find a program that fits your goals, and make it happen. There are opportunities of every length and budget, each with the potential to shape your art and your life in unexpected ways. ​“You only live once,” he says. ​“Going abroad isn’t just about seeing a new place, it’s about discovering who you can become in it.”

Learn more about Study Abroad opportunities at U‑M’s Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design.