Aldair Etmar Garcia

NTUST: A Perfect Fit for Academic and Career Goals

My journey to Taiwan began with a search for master's program scholarships. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) scholarship caught my attention. The scholarship had many benefits such as learning Mandarin and studying in a great university for the program I wanted.

I selected National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST) for its strong reputation in academic research and teaching quality. As an aspiring chemical engineer with a focus on sustainability, NTUST aligns perfectly with my career goals, offering a program that would equip me with the knowledge and skills needed for my future profession.

Despite NTUST's compact campus, I've found a favorite spot that speaks to my love of nature—a small pond teeming with turtles and fish. I am happy that the campus has a pond and many trees because I am a nature lover.

Language and Culture: A Daily Adventure

I love many things about studying in Taiwan, such as safety, transportation, people being kind and respectful, exotic food, and the opportunity to make friends from all over the world. I love learning from other cultures and people.

The greatest challenges I've faced have been the cultural differences and language barrier. I've tackled these obstacles by maintaining an open mind and consistently practicing my Mandarin. I've learned to be patient when people try to explain things in English, understanding that English isn't their mother tongue.

Prior to arriving in Taiwan, I had no knowledge of Mandarin. Now, after dedicated study and daily practice, I've reached a conversational level, achieving an A2 level in the Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL). I know that I can do better than that, so I practice my Mandarin on a daily basis.

Beyond Academics: A Well-Rounded Life

I'm proud of my participation in sustainability education projects in Taitung and Taipei. These opportunities allowed me to share my knowledge and skills while potentially inspiring others to think more deeply about environmental issues.

Outside of my studies, I enjoy a variety of activities. Hanging out with friends, playing guitar, going to the gym, and participating in outdoor activities like hiking have all become integral parts of my life here.

I've had the privilege of experiencing several Taiwanese festivals, including the Dragon Boat Festival, Moon Festival, Lunar New Year, and Lantern Festival. These celebrations, along with exploring local cuisine and visiting temples, have deepened my understanding of the Taiwanese culture.

Working in Sustainability in Taiwan

Post-graduation, I'm considering working for an international company in Taiwan that focuses on sustainability. This would allow me to apply my degree in a meaningful way while maintaining a work-life balance. I believe that Taiwan has a lot of potential in sustainability, and I would like to contribute along with Taiwan, for the world to be a better place.

To friends and family, I would recommend Taiwan for its safety, convenience, and the incredible opportunities it offers for personal growth and cross-cultural learning.