Chris Tyson

Educational Journey in Taiwan

I chose to study in Taiwan due to the success stories of fellow Kittitians and Nevisians who studied here and the established diplomatic relations between Taiwan and my home country. This connection made the process of coming to Taiwan less difficult and provided a support network of fellow nationals. My love for Asian culture also played a significant role in my decision, making my time in Taiwan a dream come true.

Academic Choice and Experience

I selected National Pingtung University of Science and Technology because it offers programs in English and is known for being the greenest school in Taiwan. My major is with the Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, where I can explore various agricultural fields relevant to the tropics. The diverse courses available are my favorite aspect, as they allow me to explore different paths in agriculture.

My greatest learning achievement in Taiwan has been developing tolerance and acceptance. Coming from a small island, I was initially unaccustomed to the diverse range of cultures and practices in Taiwan. Learning to appreciate and respect these differences has been an enriching experience.

The main challenge I’ve faced is the language barrier outside of the classroom. Despite knowing some Mandarin, there are many phrases I’m unfamiliar with, making communication difficult at times. I am actively working to improve my Mandarin skills by making local friends, engaging in Mandarin activities, and self-studying to pass a higher level of the TOCFL examination.

In addition to studying, I enjoy traveling around Taiwan with friends. We often visit cultural and fun attractions in various counties and cook Caribbean food for holidays or comfort. This helps maintain a connection with my culture while exploring Taiwanese life.

Sharing Experiences with Family and Friends

When communicating with family and friends back home, I emphasize the challenges of language and weather in Taiwan but also the convenience and welcoming nature of the country. Despite being a minority and experiencing occasional stares and questions, I find Taiwan to be a lovely place and encourage them to visit.

Future Plans

Studying in Taiwan is significantly aiding my career development. Taiwan’s advanced development compared to my home country allows me to enhance my theoretical knowledge and practical skills in agriculture. My future plans involve pinpointing a specific area within agriculture to specialize in. I am considering completing my graduate studies and possibly a PhD, either in Taiwan or another country, to further expand my skills and perspective. With the skills gained here I can return to my country and improve the agricultural industry and increase the industry’s input to the GDP.

Comparative Study Environment

Compared to my home country, the learning environment in Taiwan is less stressful, with more advanced technology, varied teaching strategies, and readily available resources. The coursework is diverse but manageable, and the environment is comfortable with facilities like art centers and gyms, enhancing the overall educational experience.

People who would benefit most from studying in Taiwan are those open to new experiences and willing to step out of their comfort zones. This includes individuals interested in higher education, broadening their perspectives, or learning a new language, especially Mandarin.