Marcelle Surban Abeles

My Journey to Study in Taiwan: A Story of Transformation

Taiwan is the perfect choice for me because it offers a great balance between pursuing my college education and engaging in part-time work, all while providing an opportunity to learn Mandarin.

After spending my entire life in a small Philippine city, attending the same school from kindergarten through senior high school, I felt an overwhelming need for change. This desire for something new and different became the primary driving force behind my decision to study in Taiwan. I wanted an opportunity to break away from the familiar and immerse myself in a new environment. It was this need for change that led me to consider studying abroad, and I-Shou University's scholarship program offered the perfect chance to make this aspiration a reality. The university's scholarship program presented the perfect opportunity to make this aspiration a reality while pursuing my desire for independence.

Choosing I-Shou University

The scholarship opportunity at I-Shou University was a crucial factor in my decision-making process. I didn't want to burden my parents with international tuition fees, and the presence of an International Business Administration program with English-taught courses made it an attractive choice.

During the application process, I recommend reaching out to current students at the university. The application process can sometimes be unclear or confusing. When I applied, having a friend who was a freshman at the university proved to be extremely helpful. It might be beneficial for the university to assign a contact person who can provide assistance and answers during the application process. A quick and direct platform like LINE could work well for this purpose. That’s the suggestion I would make based on my experience.

Language Journey and Challenges

My Mandarin journey began before Taiwan, having studied at a Chinese school and spent two summers in China. However, upon arriving in Taiwan, I faced unexpected challenges. Despite my decent foundation in the language, I felt intimidated by the proficiency of other international students. Additionally, locals often switch to English during conversations, limiting opportunities for practice and improvement.

My experience in Taiwan has been a mix of highs and lows. On one hand, I love having the freedom to do things my way, manage my time, and take responsibility for myself. The exposure to diverse individuals from all around the world and the opportunity to learn their cultures and languages have been incredibly enriching as well.

On the other hand, there are some challenges. As I previously mentioned, learning Chinese has proven to be a considerable challenge, primarily due to the pressure. Furthermore, I encountered initial difficulties in adjusting to the school's structure, familiarizing myself with professors, and aligning with their teaching methods.

Throughout this experience, the most valuable lesson I've learned in overcoming these challenges is that it's okay to ask for help, and there's no need to feel embarrassed about doing so. In the past, I used to believe that I could handle everything independently, never being willing to ask for help. Over time, I've come to realize the importance of reaching out for support. Learning is all about making progress, and there's absolutely no shame in that.

Life in Taiwan

The campus has become my second home, with several favorite spots that bring joy to my daily life. I particularly enjoy the expansive grounds with their lush trees and blooming flowers—a significant upgrade from my previous school experience. The library's diverse collection and the track and field area have become my go-to places for both study and relaxation.

Beyond academics, I've discovered the joy of exploring Kaohsiung with friends who introduce me to new experiences. While traditional Taiwanese cuisine isn't my primary choice, I've fallen in love with the variety of international restaurants and, of course, Taiwan's famous milk tea. I even discovered bingsu (more commonly known as shaved ice in Taiwan) here, which has become one of my favorite treats.

When it comes to recommending Taiwan to my friends and family, I would highlight two standout features: safety and public transportation. Comparing these aspects to my home country, the Philippines, there's a noticeable contrast. In the Philippines, particularly in Manila, traffic congestion is notorious due to bad city planning and an underdeveloped public transportation system. On the other hand, in Taiwan, the efficient and convenient public transport options make getting around super easy. Moreover, the safety aspect in Taiwan is a refreshing change from the vigilance often required in the Philippines due to concerns about theft. These factors collectively make Taiwan an attractive choice for anyone.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, I see Taiwan as a land of opportunity, especially compared to the limited options in the Philippines. My primary objective is to earn enough to provide for myself and my family, and I believe Taiwan gives me the opportunity to achieve that.