Widya Oky Kurniawan Putra

Reasons for Studying in Taiwan

I chose to study in Taiwan for several reasons. Firstly, Taiwan’s multicultural society, influenced by cross-national marriages and the New Southbound Policy, makes it a welcoming environment for international students. This multicultural aspect is similar to Indonesia’s diversity in tribes, religions, and races. Additionally, the opportunity to study multicultural human resources in Taiwan is significant for my future application of this knowledge in Indonesia. Another compelling reason is Taiwan’s rich culture, especially the Mandarin language. In today’s world, finding professionals fluent in English is common, but fluency in Mandarin is less so. Learning Mandarin is as essential as learning English.

Taiwan: A Beautiful and Diverse Island

Describing Taiwan, I would say, “Taiwan is truly Ilha Formosa,” a term coined by Portuguese sailors meaning “beautiful island.” Each region in Taiwan has its unique character and beauty. Kaohsiung, in particular, stands out as my favorite city. It’s the second-largest city, with an efficient transportation system, affordable food, and artistic places like Pier 2 Art Center, an open art space near Kaohsiung port.

Academic Choice and Program of Study

My life goal is to be useful to others, and learning business and administration seemed the right path towards this. That’s why I pursued a master’s degree in business administration at NKUST. NKUST, established in 2018 from a merger of three universities, offers vast campuses, strong human resources, diverse cultural assets, and prestigious accreditations like AASCB. The IMBA program at NKUST, in collaboration with universities in the United States, Austria, Germany, and others, and substantial scholarships for international students, were also significant factors in my decision.

Learning Achievements and Challenges

A memorable achievement during my time in Taiwan was an internship at a renowned semiconductor firm in Kaohsiung, where I was part of the quality control team. This experience allowed me to witness the detailed process of chip manufacturing from start to finish. The greatest challenge I faced was the language barrier. Initially, I knew only a few words in Mandarin, making simple tasks like taking a taxi to the quarantine hotel a humorous challenge involving Google Translate and body language. Now, I can communicate in everyday situations in Mandarin.

Life Beyond Academics

Beyond studying, I explore Taiwanese culture, learning Mandarin, visiting historical sites, and participating in volunteer activities. Sharing experiences about Taiwan with my family and friends back home is extensive, covering unique habits, transportation options, and student life. The distinct sounds of garbage trucks and the habit of people standing on the right side on escalators to allow others to pass are some of the many fascinating aspects of Taiwanese life.

Future Career Prospects

Studying International Master of Business Administration at NKUST provides an excellent opportunity to deepen my research skills and business knowledge in a creative and cosmopolitan environment. My ambition is to work in the startup industry and NGOs, applying the knowledge I’ve acquired. Taiwan’s thriving startup industry, with over 1,600 startups according to Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER), aligns with my career aspirations, motivating me to stay longer in Taiwan.

Studying in Taiwan: Benefits and Comparisons

People who are open to learning new things and adapting to changes would greatly benefit from studying in Taiwan. The technological sophistication, work ethic, and discipline in Taiwan offer immense learning opportunities. Comparing Taiwanese education, especially at NKUST, with education in my home country, the number of foreign-educated professors and lecturers, the international environment, and advanced school equipment and facilities stand out in Taiwan.