Marco David Galindo Samayoa

Journey to Studying in Taiwan

My dream of studying abroad began in high school, and the strong diplomatic relationship between Guatemala and Taiwan opened numerous scholarship opportunities for me. My fascination with Taiwanese culture, society, and the high level of talent and innovation in the field of computer science, particularly after watching YouTube videos and reading about Taiwan, fueled my desire to study there. I was fortunate to receive a scholarship funded by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), allowing me to study Mandarin for a year and pursue a master’s degree in a university of my choice.

Living and Studying in Taiwan

Taiwan, to me, is the safest and most convenient place for study and living. Residing in Hsinchu has been ideal for concentrating on my studies and exploring nature through hikes and day trips. The freedom, safety, and easy access to both educational and recreational resources are remarkable.

Academic Pursuits at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University

At National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), I am pursuing a master’s degree in artificial intelligence, a field in which NYCU excels. The guidance, resources, and connections I have made within my lab have been invaluable, and working with brilliant minds has greatly enhanced my learning experience. My greatest academic achievement so far has been collaborating on a survey paper, and I am currently working on another project aimed at a major scientific journal.

Challenges and Overcoming Them

The most significant challenges have been the language barrier and the high knowledge expectations in classes. By intensively learning Mandarin and with support from classmates, labmates, and friends, I’ve managed to overcome these challenges. My progress in Mandarin has enabled me to meet many people and participate in various cultural experiences, including traditional dancing.

Social and Recreational Activities

Outside academics, I enjoy outdoor activities and exercise, especially biking. I have embarked on several biking trips across Taiwan and have traveled to places like Kenting, Liuqiu Island, Hualian, and Nantou, indulging in hiking and exploring new areas. My favorite place in Taiwan is the Dragon Caves in New Taipei, where I enjoy snorkeling and cliff jumping.

Sharing Taiwan with Family and Friends

I frequently share my experiences with family and friends, highlighting the perfection of life in Taiwan, from its culture to academic opportunities. I have encouraged friends to study in Taiwan and am involved in a project linking Guatemala’s national university with NYCU to create scholarship opportunities.

Future Career Prospects and Plans

The knowledge and experience gained in Taiwan, especially in self-driving vehicle technology, will make me competitive for positions worldwide. My plan after graduation is to work in Hsinchu, potentially with leading tech companies like TSMC, due to NYCU’s connections with such industry giants. I find Hsinchu an ideal place to live, owing to its peacefulness and favorable weather.

Comparative Analysis with Guatemala

Comparing my educational experience in Guatemala with that in Taiwan, I find that NYCU offers vastly superior equipment and resources, especially for AI research. While Guatemala has experienced professors, the lack of laboratories and research projects limits potential advancements. NYCU’s commitment to keeping up with industry and research trends sets it apart, providing a more dynamic and resource-rich educational environment.