Bartosz Czerwiński

My name is Bartosz Czerwinski from Poland. I’m currently studying at the National Taiwan Normal University Graduate Institute of Mass Communication. Besides my studies, I work part-time at Poem Culture Corporation, promoting cultural dialogue between Taiwan and the world. I plan to graduate this year and aim to pursue a PhD degree, possibly at Cheng Chi University’s College of Communication. I have a deep fascination with Taiwanese culture and wish to spend my life researching it. I enjoy watching Blue Spiderweb (a soap opera-like crime TV show) and eating stinky tofu.

Decision to Study in Taiwan

My journey to Taiwan began in 2010 during a Mandarin language course at National Kaohsiung Normal University. I instantly fell in love with Taiwan and knew I wanted to return for a longer stay. With a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Studies from the University of Warsaw, I sought to expand my horizons while remaining in a Mandarin-speaking environment. Taiwan was the natural choice for me.

Academic Program and Experience

I am majoring in Mass Communication at National Taiwan Normal University. The program has allowed me to explore new areas like game production, multimedia production, and sound editing. I’ve particularly enjoyed learning skills I once thought were difficult and discovering hidden talents. One notable project was producing a podcast episode about the Polish abstract painter Zdzislaw Beksinski and his influence on Taiwanese artist Mao Ming-tai. I also conducted extensive research on Taiwan’s underground extreme metal scene for my master’s thesis, including interviews with prominent musicians.

Comparison with Home Country

Studying in Taiwan is quite different from my experience in Poland. Taiwanese universities have more advanced equipment and facilities, including multimedia centers and access to Jstore. The professors are dedicated, and private thesis advising sessions provide personalized guidance. Communication with the university is efficient, ensuring students are well-informed about university activities.

Challenges and Overcoming Them

The main challenge was the language barrier, as my program required Chinese proficiency. Although I have a background in Chinese studies, I still needed assistance from Taiwanese friends for writing tasks. The application process at NTNU was clear, and communication with the Taipei Representative Office in Poland was straightforward.

Future Plans

After completing my master’s degree, I intend to pursue a PhD in Taiwan. I see Taiwan as my second home and want to focus on academic work and research in Taiwanese culture. The kindness of the people, delicious food, warm weather, and vibrant culture make Taiwan the perfect place for me, despite the cockroaches!

Career Benefits

Studying Mass Communication at NTNU has provided me with a diverse skill set applicable to various media and communication fields. My current part-time job already utilizes skills learned during my studies. Studying in Mandarin has deeply rooted me in Taiwanese society and improved my language skills, which are invaluable.

Important Achievements

I participated in the Global Culture Ambassador Program, introducing Polish culture to students in Pingtung and won the Creativity Award for organizing a Polish dumplings cooking workshop. I presented my research on Taiwanese underground extreme metal at an international conference in Malaysia. Additionally, I am proud of a podcast I produced about Zdzislaw Beksinski’s influence in Taiwan.

Advice for Prospective Students

I advise future students to remain open-minded. Taiwan is welcoming and offers much to those willing to integrate and embrace the local lifestyle. The friendliness and helpfulness of the people here are unmatched, so don’t hesitate to seek help and maintain a positive approach.