Chanakan Thongma

Taiwan: Land of Opportunities

I would describe "Studying in Taiwan" as an "opportunity" because Taiwan provides numerous opportunities for international students to learn and grow. The country has a well-established education system, composed of many top-ranked universities offering a diverse range of academic programs, including those taught in English.

Furthermore, the Taiwanese government and universities offer various scholarships and grants to support the studies of international students. Moreover, studying in Taiwan gives students the chance to immerse themselves in a new culture, learn a new language, and build connections with individuals from different parts of the world. Overall, studying in Taiwan affords a multitude of opportunities that can significantly enhance both academic and personal growth.

Four years ago, I had the opportunity to complete an internship in Taiwan, which left a lasting impression on me. Taiwan is celebrated for its high-quality education system, reasonable cost of living, Mandarin language learning opportunities, and its diverse and vibrant culture. Additionally, numerous networking and career prospects abound. The nation has a thriving business community, with many international companies establishing their presence in Taiwan, making it a prime destination for both study and residency.

Applied Economics at NCHU: An Exceptional Program for International Students

I am passionate about my studies in Taiwan, as it has always been a country I wanted to explore. The National Chung Hsing University (NCHU) has provided me with this fantastic opportunity. The Department of Applied Economics offers a wide range of courses in various areas of economics, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and international economics. This allows students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. The department also provides an excellent research laboratory for PhD students, as well as a comfortable study center, enabling me to focus more on my research area. I am grateful to National Chung Hsing University (NCHU) for providing an exceptional program tailored for international students.

However, the challenge of studying at NCHU lies in the language barrier faced by non-native Mandarin Chinese speakers. Although NCHU offers courses in English, most classes are taught in Mandarin, posing significant difficulty in communicating with professors and classmates. I overcame this challenge by attending the Chinese language class offered by the university. This has vastly improved my communication skills and allowed me to engage effectively with my teachers and peers. Before I arrived in Taiwan, I had learned some Mandarin. Because I have a master's degree from China. Learning Mandarin requires consistent practice. Try to practice every day, even if it's just for a few minutes.

My favorite place on campus is the library, located in the heart of National Chung Hsing University. It provides both quiet study spaces and group study rooms, as well as areas for collaborative work, making it an invaluable resource for students seeking to expand their knowledge and conduct research. Additionally, the library is well-equipped and offers a wide range of resources to support students' academic research and study needs. Moreover, the DIGITAL maker studio in the library provides numerous devices that enable students to actively and spontaneously explore knowledge, thus cultivating their problem-solving and innovative thinking abilities.

Exploring Taiwanese Cuisine

After school, when I have some free time, I often seek out local Taiwanese food to eat. Taiwanese cuisine is well-known for its diversity, flavors, and freshness. The food in Taiwan reflects the country's rich history and the cultural influences it has absorbed from China, Japan, and other parts of Asia. Taiwan offers a wide variety of delicious and affordable food options, sure to satisfy the cravings of every foodie, including myself. Additionally, the internship store at National Chung Hsing University is an excellent place for me to sample various foods. They offer different types of rice, coffee, and dairy products produced by the school, effectively combining the specialties and products of each department.

Embracing Opportunities in Taiwan

Taiwan can be an ideal choice for many, depending on personal interests and goals. Some of the most compelling reasons why Taiwan is the best choice for me include its high-quality education, a safe and welcoming environment, and top-notch healthcare. I would recommend to my friends and family that they try Taiwan's local food, such as stinky tofu and bubble tea. In addition, the Office of International Affairs at National Chung Hsing University offers various forms of assistance to international students, making our integration into a foreign environment much smoother. I also became a member of the Thai Student Association, where we support one another and organize events. These events provide opportunities for Taiwanese students to gain a deeper understanding of Thai culture. With the support from both the university and the Thai Student Association, navigating studies in Taiwan has become a seamless experience.

Given the opportunity to stay in Taiwan, my aspiration is to become a teacher for several reasons. Firstly, Taiwan boasts a low cost of living, especially compared to other developed countries. This means teachers in Taiwan can enjoy a good standard of living and still save money. Secondly, Taiwanese culture places great emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Employers often offer flexible working hours and generous vacation time, making teaching an attractive career choice. Lastly, Taiwan's schools and universities are known for their supportive and collaborative environments, offering abundant opportunities for professional development and mentorship.