Irene Joseline Santoso

From High School to College in Taiwan

From a young age, I have always aspired to study abroad to broaden my horizons and step out of my comfort zone. The opportunity to study in a secondary school in Tainan brought me to Taiwan, along with my sibling and two cousins. This move was a step towards exploring foreign cultures and understanding myself better. After five years in Tainan, I’m currently in Hualien.

My secondary school experience included learning Mandarin, but it was the interactions with Taiwanese classmates that truly improved my fluency. The kindness of the Taiwanese people made Taiwan feel like a second home, enhancing the value of my study abroad experience. Apart from academics, my school facilitated trips around Taiwan, enriching my cultural understanding.

Despite initial worries about the language barrier, I graduated high school with top grades and chose my university independently. I have received the Academic Achievement Award twice and been granted scholarships for overseas Chinese. As an international student at Donghwa, I engage in various events and have had the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds, enhancing my cultural understanding and collaborative skills.

I chose National Dong Hwa University for its programs in the College of Management and eventually enrolled in the undergraduate program in accounting. The environment of nature and studying in Dong Hwa strongly influenced my decision.

The transition to a new environment and education system, particularly overcoming the language barrier, was challenging. Support from teachers and classmates was invaluable in learning about Taiwanese culture and customs. Moving from Tainan to Hualien for college was a significant step in becoming more independent and adaptable.

Exploring Taiwan and Developing Skills

I have traveled extensively in Taiwan, with a notable experience being a working holiday in Jiufen during the summer of 2020. The outbreak of COVID-19 led to this opportunity, allowing me to explore Taiwan’s north coast and its stunning landscapes. This solo journey not only fulfilled a dream but also helped me gain insights into tourism management and interacting with new people.

Benefits of Being an International Student in Taiwan

The system for international students in Taiwan is well organized, offering academic programs in English alongside opportunities to learn Mandarin. Financially, there are various scholarships and grants available. Taiwan provides excellent care and assistance for international students, offering numerous opportunities post-graduation, including working in multinational corporations or pursuing further studies.

Future Plans and Taiwan’s Opportunities

After receiving my bachelor’s degree, I plan to pursue a master’s in management, focusing on accounting or corporate social responsibility. I intend to stay and work in Taiwan for at least three years, taking advantage of the country’s advancements in technology and favorable workforce regulations.

Advice for Prospective Students

I encourage students considering studying in Taiwan to take risks and explore the world. Learning the local language through interaction, choosing a program you are passionate about, and experiencing Taiwan’s culture are crucial steps in making the most of your university experience. Seeking and seizing opportunities is key to a fulfilling study abroad experience in Taiwan.