Small but certain: The simple joys of uni life
Written By: Jeesu Kim
If you’ve ever felt like school life is just an endless cycle of classes and deadlines, you’re definitely not alone. As an international student who has spent all four years on campus, I often find myself just counting down the days until the semester is over. But nearly finishing my last semester at NTU, I’ve learned that even in the chaos, there are small but certain happiness that makes everything a little more bearable - and dare I say, even enjoyable.
In Korea, there is a term,“소확행” [so-huak-hang] (short for “small but certain happiness”), that describes simple joys that can make ordinary days feel special and appreciate the little things even in the busiest times. For me, discovering my version of this helped me feel more at home at NTU and gave me memories I can cherish, particularly on overwhelming days.
While this may sound like a trivial routine, one of my favourite moments is taking a nighttime stroll around SRC. I remember one night in particular when I felt a refresher after not remembering how my day went. The SRC, normally crowded with activities, was unusually empty, with only a few scattered students jogging while enjoying their favourite music playing out loud. As I walked along the track, I realised how many students sought SRC for their comfort - couples sitting at the deck were chatting and enjoying their drinks, while others were lying on the field to observe the night sky. Just observing these sights and enjoying the cool evening breezes will refresh your senses and peacefully call it a day.
Another happiness I treasure is the spontaneous hangouts with friends. Amidst busy schedules, it’s easy to forget how exciting last-minute plans can be, but those are the ones that give us the most unforgettable moments. I vividly recall one afternoon, right after a gruelling 4-hour seminar at Hive, when a friend replied, “Meet me at Luckin in 5 min” when I messaged her “I NEED CAFFEINE RN.” The impromptu encounter at the right time and place gave me the perfect minutes to laugh over our recent updates while sipping new Luckin drinks at Gaia in the cosy vibe. Although it was brief, what we laughed about stayed in my head throughout the whole day and made me chuckle to myself, putting a smile on my face. At times, these moments of connection can fill you with positivity that you might have lost for a while.
Being involved in campus clubs has also lifted my sense of happiness even though the responsibilities can be stressful sometimes. Last year, I had a chance to run the Korea booth for SIC Confluence to explain Korean culture and games as one of the members of the Korean Students Association. Although I was worn out after the set-up, the energy from the students visiting was contagious, immersing me in the excitement that filled their eyes. Watching how they truly are amused by just small games and learning new knowledge gave me a thrill that I could contribute at least a little, to NTU’s vibrant life. Sometimes, the times beyond academics can make all the difference.
Of course, these little joys don’t solve everything - there are still days when the school feels never-ending. But, finding those little moments of laughter and connection has helped me to create a more balanced and fulfilling university life. Small things can make your day.
And here’s something new to look forward to if you are wondering what could be your one of small but certain happiness! NTU Students’ Union is launching a podcast that will give us a fun, insightful look into campus life, student stories, and topics that matter to all of us. It’s another small joy that can make your university experience richer - an easy way to refresh, connect, and get a fresh perspective on life at NTU. So, what’s your “소확행”? Maybe this podcast can be your next one!
With your small but certain happiness, wish you all happy and rich experiences in NTU!
