Kornpatchara Kummanant

Choosing Taiwan: A Leap into the Unknown

When I was in high school, my only thought was to escape my comfort zone. Mandarin class was my nightmare, so I decided to choose a country that uses Mandarin as its main language. Taiwan became the answer. Many asked, "But why not China?" I chose Taiwan because the living expenses are similar to Thailand, and I had heard that Taiwanese people are nice and friendly. Additionally, Taiwan's reputation as a safe country was appealing; we can walk at night without fear, unlike in Thailand where I didn't dare to walk my dog after dark.

Yuan Ze University: A Gateway to New Opportunities

I selected Yuan Ze University (YZU) for its easy application process and user-friendly website. I also chose YZU because of its reputation as a top university for English programs. The convenient access to the airport and the better environment compared to Taipei further solidified my choice.

My favorite place on campus is the Global Lounge. It's a priority space for foreign students to hang out, relax, work, or participate in activities. I find myself there whenever I have free time or nowhere else to go.

I feel fortunate to have many good Thai friends at YZU, which helps alleviate homesickness. The presence of numerous Thai restaurants in Zhongli also provides a taste of home.

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone: Leadership, Competition, and Language

Beyond academics, I've found great joy in participating in events organized by GAO (Global Affairs Office) and GSA (Global Student Association) at YZU. This involvement has been transformative for me. In Thailand, I was a nobody in high school, always playing a minor role in activities. At YZU, I've taken on leadership responsibilities, overseeing Thai students and working on significant projects with the school. These experiences have been immensely fulfilling.

I've also surprised myself by participating in competitions. I joined a video competition created by GAO, editing a video that won the "View with the highest IMPRESSIONS" award. It was an unexpected and rewarding experience that I don't regret.

Before arriving in Taiwan, my Mandarin skills were limited to basic counting from one to ten. I couldn't speak for daily life and had consistently failed Mandarin exams in high school. Naturally, language became my greatest challenge upon arriving in Taiwan.

To improve my Mandarin, I've adopted the learning strategy of one of my Thai senior students. He reads every Chinese sign he encounters, uses translation apps for unfamiliar words, and reviews them later. By emulating his approach, my Mandarin skills have significantly improved. I now use Mandarin as another primary language for communication.

Experiencing the Unique Yet Familiar Taiwan

What I love most about life in Taiwan is the excellent public transportation system. Buses, trains, high-speed rail, and even bikes make it incredibly convenient to travel around the country, especially compared to Thailand. I can easily explore every corner of Taiwan without needing to drive a car or ride a motorcycle.

The Moon Festival and Lunar New Year are favorites among Thai people in Taiwan. I particularly enjoy the barbecue traditions associated with these festivals. It reminds me of Thailand, where we barbecue for almost every occasion. These gatherings provide excellent opportunities to communicate and bond with friends and coworkers. I was amazed during my first year to see every household suddenly barbecuing at night simultaneously—it was a satisfying sight.

Recommending Taiwan

I highly recommend Taiwan for its safety and excellent transportation system. The ability to walk at night or visit a 7-Eleven in pajamas in the middle of the night speaks volumes about the country's safety. The comprehensive transportation network makes exploring Taiwan a breeze.