Sasinuch Nutachaisri

Adventure and Educational Enhancement Through Studying Abroad

My desire to study abroad was driven by a longing to turn my life into an adventure, despite knowing the journey would be filled with challenges. I was excited about the prospect of gaining new experiences, enhancing my educational journey, and becoming more resilient in new environments. Studying abroad, to me, was an opportunity to meet new people, learn new languages, and understand diverse perspectives. Sharing and reflecting on cultural traditions with friends from different continents has been an enriching and fascinating experience. I believe that studying abroad provides a competitive advantage through academic insight and experiences in a cross-cultural environment. It also helps in developing interpersonal and communication skills, fostering independence and self-sufficiency.

Choosing Taiwan for Master’s Studies

After accumulating two years of work experience, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in human resources. My earlier experience with the Huayu Enrichment Scholarship (HES) in Taiwan was a remarkable journey that grounded my Mandarin skills and sparked my interest in Taiwanese culture and language. This motivated me to choose Taiwan for my master’s studies, specifically at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), renowned for cultivating human resource professionals with international perspectives. Several factors influenced this decision, including available scholarships, excellent academic quality, and better job prospects in Thailand. Taiwan’s developed infrastructure, convenient facilities, and natural beauty also played a significant role in attracting me to study here.

Impressions of Taiwan

My impression of Taiwan can be summarized by five core aspects:

1. Quality Education & Extensive Academic Resources: The education system in Taiwan offers an excellent infrastructure with intensive courses, making it an attractive choice for international students.
2. Multicultural Environments: The IHRD, NTNU program, provides opportunities for learning both inside and outside the classroom, fostering a multicultural environment for sharing diverse cultural perspectives.
3. High Technology Facilities: Taiwan’s impressive infrastructure, including transportation and educational facilities, enhances the learning and living experience.
4. Highlight Scholarship Provided: The availability of comprehensive scholarships like the ICDF scholarship, which I received, greatly supports international students.
5. Mandarin as a Third Language: The opportunity to learn Mandarin adds a significant advantage to our educational experience.

Choosing National Taiwan Normal University

My selection process involved researching universities that offered programs aligned with my career objectives in HR. I found that NTNU’s International Human Resource Development (IHRD) program offered the ICDF scholarship, which is highly competitive and covers comprehensive educational expenses. This scholarship, along with the program’s reputation and opportunities, solidified my decision to apply for the IHRD program at NTNU.

Studying at NTNU has exceeded my expectations. The IHRD program provides a comprehensive understanding of business concepts and practical experiences. Opportunities to attend conferences, company site visits, and classes from different departments have broadened my perspective and network. The program’s focus on cross-cultural communication and HR fields has been particularly insightful.

My experience at NTNU has also been enriching, extending beyond academic learning to include various activities and cultural exchanges. The Office of International Affairs at NTNU has been incredibly supportive, making me feel at home. The university’s atmosphere and location are conducive to exploring popular local spots. Living in Taiwan, especially Taipei, has been convenient, enjoyable, and culturally enriching. The local cuisine and activities like cycling and hiking add to the quality of life here.

Language barriers and homesickness were challenges I faced in Taiwan. However, free Mandarin classes and various activities provided by NTNU helped me adapt and maintain a balanced life. The university’s support in mental and physical health has been invaluable in enhancing my overall well-being.

International Student Events and Student Life

NTNU encourages international students to engage in various activities, enriching our educational journey. I started my own Facebook & YouTube channel, ThaHaoWan 泰好灣, to share experiences and cultural exchanges. NTNU’s cultural exchange sessions, sports days, and the International Companions for Learning program have provided opportunities to interact with local students and share cultures. My involvement in departmental initiatives and projects has also been a rewarding part of my experience at NTNU.

The diverse learning environment at NTNU has helped me develop cross-cultural communication skills and an open-minded approach to understanding cultural differences. Participating in cultural sharing sessions and Mandarin courses has expanded my academic opportunities and global perspective.

Travel Experiences in Taiwan

I recommend visiting Hualien and Jiufen for their natural beauty and cultural richness. Hualien, known for its scenic Taroko Gorge and adventure activities like rafting, left a lasting impression on me. Jiufen, with its charming old streets and mountain hikes, offers a different atmosphere in the morning and evening, making it a must-visit location.

Future Plans and Perspective on Taiwan

After completing my studies, I plan to work in Taiwan for a few years to apply my knowledge and skills. I believe that gaining work experience in Taiwan will be beneficial for my future career and personal growth.

Advice for Prospective Students

For those considering studying in Taiwan, I encourage you to embrace the opportunity, “GO FOR IT!” The quality education, diverse cultural environment, and supportive community in Taiwan make it an excellent choice for international students. Enjoy the journey and take advantage of the unique experiences Taiwan offers.