Wonder Dlamini

Embracing the Taiwanese Opportunity

If I were to describe Taiwan in one sentence, it would be “wonderful.” It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse myself in a place known for its cutting-edge advancements and beautiful surroundings. In fact, selecting a single favorite place in Taiwan is challenging for me because I find the entire country fascinating. Its diversity and richness make every part of Taiwan uniquely appealing.

A Passion for Environmental Science at NYCU

My major in International Doctoral Program in Environmental Science and Technology at the University System of Taiwan, specifically at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), has been a fulfilling choice. This program’s focus on research integrity and its global recognition drew me to it. NYCU, a product of the merger of National Yang-Ming University and National Chiao Tung University, has provided an innovative and supportive academic environment. My previous experience at National Chung Hsing University (NCHU) also contributed to my decision, as it’s another remarkable institution within the Taiwan Comprehensive University System. At NYCU, being part of the Institute of Environmental Health Sciences under the School of Medicine has been particularly rewarding. The opportunity to work as a research assistant and the invaluable mentorship from Professor Kuo-Pin Yu have significantly enriched my academic journey. I’ve also enjoyed the balance of rigorous study and engaging in activities like weightlifting.

Academic and Personal Achievements

My greatest achievement in Taiwan is receiving the international B.Sc. degree from NCHU, where I was engaged in various extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer work. This experience taught me the importance of time management and focus, shaping me into a better leader.

Initially, the language barrier posed a significant challenge. The way to combat this is to throw myself into learning the new language. However, with time, I discovered that many people in Taiwan speak English, which eased communication difficulties. This experience has been part of my growth while studying abroad.

Enjoying Taiwanese Life with Friends

My time outside of academics is spent enjoying various activities with friends. The diverse community in Taiwan, consisting of both locals and internationals, has made my stay here feel like a second home.

Sharing Experiences with Family and Friends

When communicating with my family and friends back home, I express my appreciation for Taiwan. The country has provided me with a wealth of experiences, new strengths, and a more informed and less biased perspective of the world. I believe everyone can benefit from studying in Taiwan, given its diverse academic offerings and cultural richness.

Future Plans and Aspirations

Studying in Taiwan is a stepping stone to enhancing employment opportunities and contributing to global development. The skills and knowledge gained here are invaluable assets for my future career. My future plan is to work and pursue other business interests while completing my PhD. Staying in Taiwan would allow me to continue my research and academic pursuits.

Comparing Educational Experiences

When comparing the educational experience in Taiwan with that in my home country, the differences are notable, particularly in teaching quality and academic resources. The advanced facilities and innovative teaching approaches in Taiwan have significantly enhanced my learning experience.