Rogelio Antonio Martinez Moran

Studying and Living Experience in Taiwan

I was initially drawn to study abroad for a higher level of education and broader employment opportunities, which I felt were not attainable in my own country. I had always been curious about what studying abroad would be like. Taiwan, in particular, became my dream destination since high school after I learned about the Ministry of Foreigh Affairs (MOFA) scholarship. However, I delayed my application after college graduation because I felt my English wasn’t proficient enough. So, I worked for about 8 months to improve my English and to stop being financially dependent on my parents. In 2019, I applied for the scholarship and was fortunate enough to receive it, marking the beginning of my journey to Taiwan.

My initial impression of Taiwan was overwhelmingly positive, though I experienced some nervousness due to it being my first time studying abroad. The differences in weather, culture, and language from my home country were striking. Choosing Tsing Hua University International Bachelor’s Program was influenced by a friend’s recommendation and the institution’s reputation. The English-medium instruction and the peaceful environment of Hsinchu, reminiscent of my hometown, were major draws.

Adjusting to academic life after a long break from college has been challenging, compounded by occasional language barriers. Despite these difficulties, I’ve found the higher education level here to be superior to that in my home country, although keeping up with challenging classes can be demanding. My social experience has been enriched by the friends I’ve made, who have been a guiding and supportive presence in my life.

Travel Experiences in Taiwan

During my time in Taiwan, I have visited Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Hualien. My favorite places are Tainan and Hualien, where I found the most beautiful scenery and delicious, affordable food. However, Hualien stands out as my top recommendation, particularly for its natural beauty, such as the Taroko park with its splendid views and excellent air quality, and the beaches with their striking contrast between the unique sand color and the turquoise blue of the water and sky.

Academic and Student Life

In terms of academic goals, I differentiate between short-term and long-term objectives. Short-term, my focus is on passing classes to gain the necessary knowledge for tackling more complex subjects. Long-term, I aim to graduate and apply my acquired knowledge to real-world problems. The most satisfying aspect of student life at the university is experiencing new things with friends, focusing on studies during the semester, and exploring new cities and cuisines when it’s over.

Challenges and Coping Strategies

The mental challenges of homesickness, depression, and sadness have been magnified during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the increased difficulty of returning to my home country. Studying in a foreign language has also posed physical challenges in the classroom. I am grateful for the support of amazing friends who have helped me through these difficult times.

Future Plans and Perspectives

Post-graduation, I’m considering either pursuing a master’s degree or finding a job in Taiwan, particularly in the technology management area. This field aligns well with my engineering background and offers diverse academic opportunities. I’m not in a hurry to make a decision, as I’m open to exploring various job markets, especially in technology and innovation. My main focus is on gaining varied experiences rather than seeking high-paying jobs.

Advice for Prospective Students

For those considering studying in Taiwan, I recommend learning some basic Mandarin/English to overcome potential language barriers, which can be a source of frustration.