Don’t Let Anyone Derail Your Dreams: My Journey Through Music and Teaching in Korea

 

Introduction
Ever been told you were crazy for pursuing your dreams? 

That something you wanted was “impossible”?

I’ve been there. And I’m here to tell you: 

Don’t listen to them!

For me, Korea holds a very special place in my heart because it’s where so many dreams—despite the doubters—became reality. 

Here’s how I defied the odds and stayed on course despite all the naysayers.

Chasing Dreams Amid Doubters

For years, friends and family told me, “There’s no way you can make a living playing guitar full-time.” 

I refused to let their doubt derail me. 

Korea became the place where I first experienced living abroad, and where I landed my first international gig as a professional musician. 

I toured from Busan to the DMZ, entertaining U.S. 8th Army soldiers.

Despite all the obstacles, I made it happen. 🎸

But when my music career wound down, I felt lost. 

That’s when I discovered what truly inspired me: inspiring others. 

I realized I had a passion for teaching and experiencing foreign cultures. 

At the age of 32, I returned to school to pursue my MA in TESOL, aiming to merge my love of teaching with my fascination for new cultures.

Defying Expectations

Post-9/11, people called me "crazy" for wanting to leave the U.S. But despite the fears of terrorism and the doubts of others, I ventured out. 

Nontraditional students like me weren’t common at the time, but I still graduated Summa Cum Laude from a teachers' college.

Because I didn’t listen to those who doubted me, one of my professors secured a teaching opportunity in Korea where I could gain practical experience while completing my degree. 🌍

Korea: A Place of Growth and Discovery

Korea wasn’t just the place where I fulfilled my music dreams. 

It’s where I developed an incredible range of teaching skills, honed my craft, and taught students from every background.

The deep connections I made with my students and colleagues shaped me not just as a teacher, but as a person. 

I embraced the culture, learned from the people, and discovered a Zen-like balance in my weekend trips to Buddhist temples and hikes in the mountains. 🏞️

I also savored the unforgettable cuisine. 

But more than anything, Korea was where I learned to take bold steps toward my goals, despite all the voices telling me otherwise.

What’s Holding You Back?

Looking back, I don’t know who I’d be—or where I’d be—if I had listened to the doubts of others.

 Korea was transformative because I held onto my dreams, no matter what people said.
So, what’s holding you back? 

What’s distracting you from fulfilling your dreams?

What are you telling yourself, and how are you pushing forward? 

Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear your story!

Brandon

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