Alina Paniuta

Choosing Taiwan for My Studies

I chose Taiwan for my studies after living and working as a model in nine different countries across Asia and Europe. My first visit to Taiwan in 2019 convinced me it was the perfect place to settle down. After two years of living, working, and learning the language here, I decided to pursue a degree to enhance my career prospects post-modeling.

Taiwan is open to people of all personalities, nationalities, and interests. The burgeoning economy and the influx of international companies make Taiwan a promising destination for students in any field.

My greatest achievement is learning Mandarin from scratch in just 1.5 years. In my master’s program, I’ve already acquired skills in Social Media Marketing that I know will benefit my future career. Surprisingly, I’ve faced no significant challenges in Taiwan. Even language barriers are easily overcome with the helpfulness of the locals, who use English, Google Translate, or body language to assist.

A Nice Balance of Studying & Leisure

Many friends who graduated from NCCU recommended it for its top-notch international programs. I chose the IMICS program because it aligns with my career interests in advertising and marketing. What I value most about my studies is the practical application of knowledge, working on projects and presentations, and engaging in-class discussions.

When not studying, I work. But in my free time, I explore Taiwan’s natural beauty, enjoying beaches, waterfalls, hiking, and hot springs. The ease of travel across the island is simply amazing.

Promoting Taiwan Abroad

I always advocate for life in Taiwan, especially to my Ukrainian friends and family. Due to limited political relations between Ukraine and Taiwan, fewer Ukrainians know about or live in Taiwan. I share stories about Taiwan’s safety, convenience, diverse university programs, and job opportunities, hoping to encourage more to discover this beautiful country.

Future Plans: Embracing Taiwan as Home

Studying in Taiwan is enriching my knowledge and skills vital for my future career. Additionally, the networking opportunities with professionals from diverse fields, including professors, managers, and CEOs, are invaluable.

I plan to stay in Taiwan. I have friends here, a job, and soon, a degree. I’m learning the language to further my communication and career opportunities. There’s no reason for me to leave a place I love so much.

If I were to describe Taiwan in a single sentence: it’s like living inside a soft, nice cloud. For living, Taipei is my favorite for its safety, convenience, and fun atmosphere. For vacation, I love Hualien for its unique vibe and beauty.