Sara Maurelli

Discovering Taiwan: Why I Chose to Study Here

I chose to study in Taiwan thanks to my roommate, who came here last year and shared her incredible experiences with me. She showed me pictures of this beautiful place, and I immediately fell in love with it.

Another reason is to improve my Mandarin. Although I’ve been studying it for two years, I’ve never had the chance to immerse myself in an environment where I can practice speaking it in real-life situations. Studying in Taiwan feels like the perfect way to take my language skills to the next level.

Fulfilling and Colorful University Life

I chose this university because of the appealing courses it offers and the great opportunities available, such as the international students’ course. This course gives us the chance to learn more about Taiwanese culture and explore new places in Taipei. I’ve been studying Mandarin for two years back in Italy, but I wanted to improve my skills since I’m not fluent yet. Being in Taiwan gives me the perfect opportunity to practice Mandarin daily, as it is widely spoken here. The university also offers excellent courses with incredible Mandarin teachers, which has been a great help in advancing my language abilities.

I really enjoy spending time in the restaurant area on campus. It’s a lively space with a variety of delicious food options, making it a great place to relax and have conversations with friends over a good meal. Another favorite spot is the library. The library is relatively new and has a vast collection of books and resources. The comfortable seating areas and quiet study zones make it an ideal place for focused study sessions.

Additionally, the transportation network in Taipei is incredibly convenient. There are many ways to get around, and everything is always on time, which is perfect for students like me who need to commute to the university. The tickets are very affordable, and there’s even a pass that allows students to travel around the city with ease. 

Overcoming Challenges: Adapting to a New Culture

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is adjusting to the cultural differences, particularly in manners. People in Taiwan are very polite, which is quite different from what I’m used to back home. It took me some time to adapt to their way of doing things. Asian customs are quite different from European ones, and I’m still working on fully adapting even now.  

Another major challenge is the language barrier. Since I’m not fluent in Mandarin yet, certain situations can be difficult to navigate. However, I’m making progress every day and doing my best to improve my language skills.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing some traditional Taiwanese festivities during my time here. One of the most memorable moments was visiting the Confucius Temple, where I participated in traditional rites and prayed for good grades on my exams. It was a fascinating cultural experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for Taiwanese traditions.

Enriching and Enjoyable Off-campus Explorations

I really enjoy spending time with the friends I’ve made here. We often explore the city together, creating as many memories as we can. We even joined a gym, which not only helps us stay active but also gives us the chance to practice Mandarin and meet new people. Who knows? Some of these new connections might even guide us around Taiwan!  

Taiwan’s efficient transportation system makes it incredibly easy to travel around the island. Whether it’s using the modern metro system in cities or the extensive train network connecting different parts of Taiwan, this accessibility has allowed me to explore various cities and attractions, making my stay here even more enriching and enjoyable.  

While I know the university organizes many activities, I prefer to spend my time exploring the scenery and attractions outside of campus. The university has been very supportive, offering advice and guidance to help me discover everything Taiwan has to offer.

Taiwan: Safe, Beautiful, and Unique

One of the things I truly love about Taiwan is how safe it feels. It’s amazing that you can leave your belongings almost anywhere without worrying about them being stolen. This level of security is incredibly reassuring and adds a sense of ease to daily life. Additionally, Taiwan’s stunning landscapes are simply breathtaking. Exploring the natural beauty of the island has been one of the highlights of my time here. Every corner offers something unique and beautiful to discover.  

I would recommend Taiwan to my friends and family for several reasons. First, the cultural experience here is amazing. You can explore traditional festivals like the Lantern Festival and Lunar New Year, which offer a glimpse into Taiwanese customs and traditions. Second, Taiwan is incredibly safe, so you can relax and enjoy your time without worrying too much about safety. Third, the food in Taiwan is fantastic! From street food to local delicacies, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Lastly, Taiwan's natural beauty is breathtaking. You can visit places like Taroko, Sun Moon Lake, and Kenting National Park for stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Overall, Taiwan is a destination that has something for everyone, and it’s definitely worth visiting! 

Future Aspirations

After graduation, if I have the chance to stay in Taiwan, I hope to find a job related to my field of study. I am particularly interested in becoming a language teacher or a scholar specializing in education. My goal is to contribute to international exchange and communication, fostering cultural understanding between Taiwan and other countries.