Filming Minerva Schools’ Global Immersion in Seoul

In 2014, Minerva Schools introduced a new approach to higher education, combining a rethought curriculum with living and learning across multiple cities worldwide. I worked as cinematographer and director of photography on the Seoul episode of their Global Immersion series, directed by Andrew Hida and Ayo Seligman.

Global Immersion: Learning Through Cities

Minerva’s Global Immersion series connects academic learning with real urban environments. The Seoul film explores how classroom ideas move into everyday life, shaped by the city itself. Andrew and Ayo approached the project with a clear intention: to show how education extends beyond lecture halls and becomes part of daily experience. I worked closely with local producer Mini Kim to translate this idea into images that felt grounded and observational.

The Seoul Episode

Global Immersion: Seoul is a short film that follows students as they navigate the city, engage with local issues, and apply what they learn in real situations. The film formed part of a larger campaign and included shorter cuts designed for online platforms. Rather than presenting Seoul as a backdrop, the city plays an active role in shaping the students’ experience.

Audience and Intent

The series speaks mainly to prospective students and their families. It aims to explain how Minerva differs from more traditional universities. Andrew and Ayo focused on everyday moments, study routines, and social interactions to give a clear sense of what life inside the program looks like.

Production Process and Challenges

The Global Immersion series developed over several years and across multiple cities. Each location brought its own logistical challenges. Careful planning and strong local collaboration were essential, especially when working in unfamiliar environments. Minerva’s visual language leans toward documentary and visual journalism. That approach required a cinematography style that stayed close to real life while remaining precise and consistent.

Personal Reflection

Working on the Seoul episode was a rewarding experience. It allowed me to contribute to a project that treats education as something lived, not abstract. I’m grateful to Andrew, Ayo, and Mini for their trust and close collaboration throughout the process.

Closing Thoughts

The Minerva Global Immersion series captures how learning, place, and personal growth intersect. Being part of the Seoul episode reminded me how powerful simple, honest observation can be when telling stories about education and the world we live in.