Rebeka Jendrisakova

Choosing Taiwan for Education and Exploration

My journey to Taiwan began when I discovered an interesting program that seemed like a fantastic opportunity to experience a new country and culture. Taiwan, an interesting place with very friendly and kind people, quickly captured my interest.

Among the many places I’ve visited in Taiwan, the Hehuanshan mountains have become my favorite. Their majestic beauty represents the diverse landscapes Taiwan has to offer.

An Enriching Academic Experience at NSYSU

I chose National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) for its Education and Human Development program, recommended by friends. This program seemed perfectly aligned with my background and aspirations. After starting a startup in the education sector with a friend, I believed this program would contribute significantly to our company’s future development.

The aspect of my studies I’ve enjoyed the most, and what I consider to be my greatest achievement of studying in Taiwan, is engaging is conversations in the discussion-based classes, allowing me to hear and share ideas with people from various countries and cultures. This diversity of perspectives has been both interesting and enriching, and the exchange of ideas and working styles has been invaluable, offering a broader perspective on global approaches.

One of the challenges I’ve faced is the language barrier, especially in everyday situations like ordering food. However, this has been a small hurdle in an otherwise enriching experience.

Life Outside the Classroom

Outside of academics, I love exploring Taiwan and participating in various activities. Joining the school’s dragon boat team has been a highlight. It’s a sport that emphasizes teamwork and synchronization. We practiced rigorously, hoping to participate in competitions. Though COVID-19 hindered our plans, we remain hopeful for future opportunities.

Besides dragon boat, I enjoy going to the gym and the school pool, taking advantage of NSYSU’s excellent facilities for student exercise and recreation.

Sharing Taiwan with Home

I often tell my family and friends that Taiwan keeps surprising me every day. From the friendly people to the diverse natural landscapes, Taiwan has exceeded all my expectations. It’s a small island but offers mountains, seas, waterfalls, big cities, and rich culture.

I would say Taiwan is ideal for those eager to experience a new culture and meet people from around the globe. The educational journey here extends beyond academic knowledge, offering a unique cultural exchange.

Future Plans and the Comparison with Home

I believe the experiences and knowledge gained here in Taiwan will be invaluable for my future career. Focusing on psychology classes has allowed me to better understand students and young adults, which is crucial for my business in educational support. While I don’t have definite plans post-graduation, I am keen on further developing my business. If opportunities arise in Taiwan, I would be open to staying. Having completed my undergraduate studies in the Netherlands, my experience in Taiwan has been different, with more academically focused classes and a beautiful beachside campus. The discussion-based learning environment here is inclusive and comfortable, fostering open dialogue and exploration of new ideas.

Studying in Taiwan is not just about gaining academic knowledge; it’s about immersing oneself in a rich cultural experience, learning from diverse perspectives, and enjoying the beauty of a country that continually surprises and delights.