Vytaras Juraska

Why I Chose Taiwan for My Academic Journey

I chose to study in Taiwan because of my wife, who speaks Mandarin. I was already leaning toward pursuing studies in computer science or specialized IT fields, so coming to Taiwan felt like a natural decision. It allows me to further my academic goals while experiencing life in a country that is important to my family. This opportunity also lets us see where life takes us as we explore new possibilities together.  

We planned to live off the MOE scholarship initially, so we considered factors like affordability and quality of life. Taipei, while appealing, was more expensive, so we opted for a quieter location with more access to nature instead of constant city noise.

The program I chose aligns with my desire to transition into IT work. It offers the academic foundation and career opportunities I need to make this shift, while also being situated in an area that suits our lifestyle preferences.

My favorite place on campus is my lab—it has everything I need and more for my academic work. Since I don’t live on campus, most of my daily life happens outside of it. For meals, I usually head to Zhixue, and for events or free time, I often visit Hualien. However, there is one spot on campus that my wife and I enjoy. It’s a calm area next to the lakeside canteen, especially in the evenings when it’s quieter. Sitting there together provides a peaceful break from our busy schedules.

Academic Achievements: Projects and Competitions

I’ve participated in several projects and events in Taiwan. In Hualien, there are often small gigs for foreigners or English speakers, organized by high schools, universities, or governmental institutions.  

One of the most notable experiences for me was attending the Vertical Integrated Projects—an annual Korean and Taiwanese conference—two years in a row. I also participated in the Warring Business Competition hosted by the Taiwanese Youth Governmental Development Center, where my team won 3rd place.  

Taiwan offers plenty of opportunities for competitions and projects. As long as you’re willing to dedicate time and effort, you can achieve a lot and build an impressive portfolio. 

What I Love Most: Convenience, Affordability, Ocean Adventures

When I talk to friends and family about Taiwan, I always highlight three things: the mountains, the sea, and the convenience of travel. Taiwan is one of the few places where you can experience completely different environments—like lush mountains and serene beaches—within just 30 minutes of driving in either direction.  

One of the things I love most about living in Taiwan is the convenience. Riding a scooter makes getting around incredibly easy, and shops are always open when you need something. Full meals are both cheap and delicious, and taxes and rent are very affordable, especially in Hualien. These factors make daily life here comfortable and stress-free.  

While my academic work takes up most of my time, I really enjoy ocean activities during my free moments. Snorkeling and free diving are two of my favorite hobbies. Taiwan has some magical spots for underwater exploration, though not all areas are accessible. The ocean life here is truly stunning, and these activities provide a refreshing escape from my academic responsibilities.  

I also frequently recommend the snorkeling and diving experiences to friends. Places like Xiao Liuqiu and Green Island are home to incredible marine life, including massive sea turtles and colorful fish. Some spots are easy to access, while others require more effort, but once you’re in the water, it’s like stepping into another world filled with vibrant colors and life.  

Experiencing Culture: Festivals and Performances

Before coming to Taiwan, I didn’t speak any Mandarin at all. Currently, I have a survival level of Mandarin, which is enough to get by in daily life but not enough for full conversations. Thankfully, I can rely on my wife to help me when needed, and I’m slowly improving my skills over time.  

Having lived in Taiwan for two years, I’ve had the chance to experience several national holidays and cultural events, especially in Hualien.  

During Lunar New Year, for example, Hualien’s Nanbin Park comes alive with decorations, events, and a spectacular light and water show that repeats multiple times a day. Another memorable experience was watching a play performed by a Taiwanese aboriginal acting group, which highlighted the challenges and life experiences of indigenous tribes in modern Taiwan.  

Beyond these major events, there are countless smaller cultural activities and festivals happening regularly. These offer foreigners a glimpse into Taiwan’s rich history and traditions, though they often lack English-language support.  

Future Aspirations: Navigating Career Opportunities in Taiwan

The biggest challenge for me is the uncertainty of finding employment in Taiwan after graduation. Even with good academic performance, it can be difficult for foreign graduates to secure decent jobs here. The job market for foreigners is highly competitive, and many of my friends who have completed their degrees in Taiwan are struggling to find reasonable opportunities. Although I’m not at that stage yet, it’s something that’s always on my mind. I try to focus on building my skills and connections to improve my chances when the time comes. 

After graduation, I hope to move closer to Taipei while living slightly outside the city center to maintain a quieter lifestyle. My goal is to work for an international tech company, which would allow me to apply my skills and gain valuable experience in the IT field.

However, I’m aware of the challenges that come with being an international graduate in Taiwan. The requirements for hiring foreigners are strict, and companies often struggle to navigate the complex system of employing non-Taiwanese workers. Without fluent Mandarin, the process becomes even more difficult. Despite these hurdles, I remain optimistic and am working hard to build a strong foundation for my future career.