Dony Darmawan Putra

Choosing Taiwan for Higher Education

I received my master’s degree in telecommunication engineering from National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) in 2020. After that, I decided to continue my Ph.D. studies here in the same field. Taiwan appealed to me as a study destination for several reasons. The country offers numerous scholarships, its proximity to my home country is convenient, and the Taiwanese people are renowned for their friendliness. My experience as a part-time tour guide in my country, where I interacted with many Taiwanese tourists, had already acquainted me with their warm hospitality.

NSYSU: Academic Excellence and Mentorship

In both my master's and doctoral programs, the aspect I enjoy the most is the mentorship and support provided by my professors. The telecommunication program, in particular, attracted me because of its faculty of young professors who had graduated from top universities in the United States. Their guidance has been invaluable in steering my research endeavors and academic pursuits. When faced with research challenges, my professors have consistently offered crucial insights and assistance, helping me navigate complex issues and overcome obstacles. Their clear teaching methods and commitment to nurturing student growth have significantly enriched my learning experience and contributed to my academic achievements, including maintaining a perfect GPA of 4.3 out of 4.3.

Extensive Opportunities Rooted in Strong Academic Foundation

I believe my program is preparing me well for my future career by providing a strong academic foundation and practical skills in my field. 

My research in 6G development gained me accolades in the NSYSU Research Competition and the Poster Design Competition in 2021. Participating in these competitions provided me with a platform to showcase my research endeavors and engage with peers and experts in the field. Winning first place in the NSYSU Research Competition and securing second place in the Poster Design Competition were a testament to the effort, time, and innovation invested in my work.

Additionally, I received a WCNC (Wireless Communications and Networking Conference) 2023 student travel grant from IEEE, allowing me to travel to Scotland for free with financial support. The opportunity to engage in collaborative research with Southampton University in the UK further enhances my expertise and broadens my professional network.

After graduation, if given the chance to stay in Taiwan, I aspire to pursue a postdoctoral position. This would allow me to further advance my research skills and contribute to cutting-edge projects in my field. Additionally, staying in Taiwan offers the possibility of expanding my professional network and exploring long-term career prospects in academia or industry within the vibrant research community here.

Campus Life: International and Sports Communities

One thing I like the most about my university is its vibrant international futsal and football community. I appreciate the opportunity to interact with students from diverse cultural backgrounds, which enriches my learning experience and broadens my perspective.

My team in 2022 and 2023, consisting of foreign students at NSYSU, achieved second place in a futsal competition in Kaohsiung and Tainan, which was organized in collaboration with the Indonesia Student Association.

NSYSU is uniquely located near many scenic spots and has an impressive array of high-quality sports facilities. My favorite places on campus include my laboratory, the sports venues, the beach, and the tunnel gate.

Embracing Taiwanese Life

Prior to arriving in Taiwan, I had no knowledge of Mandarin. Since then, I've been learning the language, although I still find it to be one of the most challenging languages in the world. The biggest challenge I face in Taiwan is homesickness, which I manage by making frequent visits to my home country.

However, what I love most about my life in Taiwan are the safety, cleanliness, kindness of the people, and the rich culture. I've also had the opportunity to experience several special festivals and cultural elements in Taiwan, including the Lunar New Year celebrations, tasting various Taiwanese foods, and visiting temples. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for Taiwanese culture and traditions.

Recommendations for Prospective Students

For friends and family considering studying in Taiwan, I would highly recommend the scholarships available, the excellent sports venues, and the modern research facilities. These factors, combined with the rich cultural experiences and academic opportunities, make Taiwan an excellent choice for international students seeking a high-quality education in a welcoming environment.