Genese Divine B. Cayabo

Choosing Taiwan: A Perfect Blend of Opportunities

I decided to pursue my studies in Taiwan for several reasons. Firstly, Taiwan offers excellent scholarship opportunities for a lecturer like me, making it an ideal choice for advancing my education. Additionally, its proximity to my home country ensures that I can easily visit my family. Taiwan's 14-day visa-free entry for Filipinos and affordable airfare options also allow my family to visit me in Taiwan.

Beyond practical considerations, I am excited about the opportunity to immerse myself in a new language and culture, which will undoubtedly broaden my horizons. Taiwan's efficient transportation system is another major plus, particularly for a foreign student like me who is navigating a new environment. Overall, Taiwan's blend of academic excellence, strict research ethics, cultural richness, and scenic places makes it the perfect destination for my Ph.D. journey.

NKUST: Academic Excellence on A Peaceful Campus

I chose to pursue a Ph.D. in aquatic science and technology at the National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST) due to its impressive research and publication track record. The program's reputable professors, excellent facilities, and strong foundation in toxicology created an ideal environment for my academic and research pursuits.

Despite the demanding nature of Ph.D. studies, I've found favorite spots on campus that offer moments of respite. The hallway in front of our laboratory provides a perfect vantage point for watching Taiwan's beautiful daily sunsets, giving me a sense of peace and comfort. I really love sunsets, and I've noticed that Taiwan has very beautiful sunsets, literally every day. When I need to clear my thoughts, I take walks around the oval or watch students playing ball games in the court.

Embracing Taiwan's Unique Charms

What I love most about life in Taiwan is the overall sense of safety and security. The ability to leave belongings unattended without worry is a testament to this. Taiwan's excellent and affordable transportation system, including trains, buses, and YouBike, makes getting around effortless. The healthcare system is another standout feature, with the health card making clinic consultations and check-ups affordable. Additionally, Taiwan's stunning natural scenery, including mountains, beaches, and hot springs, offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. These factors contribute to a high quality of life and make studying in Taiwan a truly enjoyable experience.

Outside of my studies, I enjoy various activities with friends. We often visit arcades, take walks in parks, or explore night markets for food and entertainment. Sharing cultural experiences through trying each other's national cuisines adds a fun element to our gatherings. During longer breaks, we go trekking or visit scenic places, which helps refresh our minds and inspire future plans. These activities allow me to unwind, explore Taiwan, and create lasting memories with friends.

Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth

One memorable experience was joining a small activity hosted by our college together with the Office of International Affairs (OIA), where I sang a Mandarin song. It was a meaningful experience for me, as it allowed me to showcase my talent and immerse myself in the local culture. Being involved in this kind of event enriched my experience and self-esteem and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

I have had the pleasure of experiencing several special festivals and cultural events during my time in Taiwan. One of the most memorable experiences was celebrating the Moon Festival and Lunar New Year. During the Moon Festival, I received mooncakes from my professors and lab mates, which was a thoughtful gesture that made me feel welcomed and appreciated. Similarly, during Lunar New Year, I received ampao (red envelopes) and experienced the joy of the festivities. I also had the opportunity to witness beautiful fireworks displays and taste delicious traditional food during these celebrations. These experiences have allowed me to immerse myself in Taiwanese culture and create lasting memories.

Prior to arriving in Taiwan, my Mandarin was limited to "ni hao" and "xie xie." While I'm not yet fluent, I've made progress in understanding and speaking basic words, including numbers, common foods, and shopping-related phrases. Language hasn't been a significant barrier in my program, as many professors and classmates speak English. However, it can be challenging when visiting local markets. 

The warm and welcoming nature of the Taiwanese people has made cultural adaptation relatively smooth. I haven't experienced racism and feel that my beliefs are respected.

Recommending Taiwan: A Tapestry of Experiences

There are several aspects of Taiwan that I would highly recommend to my friends and family. But in short, Taiwan's blend of culture, safety, convenience, and natural beauty make it a destination I would enthusiastically recommend to anyone.

While I would love to stay in Taiwan after I graduate, I cannot do so. I have a family, work, and other responsibilities waiting for me in my country. Taiwan has provided me with valuable knowledge and experience that I can bring back home, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to study here. Although I cannot stay permanently, a collaboration between NKUST and my university in the Philippines has already begun. There will always be a part of me that will be connected to Taiwan, especially in the fields of education and research.