Subani Shakya

I am Subani Shakya from the beautiful Himalayas and alleys of Kathmandu, Nepal. My passion lies in nature and natural resources. I am multilingual, speaking Mandarin, Hindi, Nepali, Newari, and English daily, and am eager to professionalize these languages further. My hobbies include writing, meditation, and yoga, guided by my belief in “Back to Nature.” Currently, I am in my senior year in Taiwan, feeling more than blessed to be here.

The primary factor that drew me to Taiwan was its impressive development in various sectors such as health, economy, business, science, and technology. The opportunity to learn traditional Chinese characters and immerse in the culture, combined with the safety provided during the Covid-19 pandemic, made Taiwan an attractive study destination for me. Additionally, as a Buddhist, the concept of Humanistic Buddhism, propagated by Master Hsing Yun of Fo Guang Shan in Taiwan, deeply resonated with me. It represented a modern adaptation of Buddhism that I found essential and intriguing.

Academic Program

I am specializing in natural biotechnology, a blend of biotechnology and nature. This program offers extensive research opportunities in plant, animal, nature, and science. My curriculum includes translational medicine, agriculture, traditional Chinese medicine, immunology, cell biology, microbiology, plant factory, plant tissue culture, essential oils, and cosmetics, supplemented with Mandarin classes. The practical aspect of my studies, like making lipstick using chemistry, extracting DNA, and conducting research experiments, has been incredibly fulfilling and enjoyable.

Academic Experience in Taiwan

The freedom and use of technology in Taiwan’s educational system significantly differ from my home country. In Nepal, the focus is more on rote learning and exam scores, whereas in Taiwan, it’s about understanding and applying knowledge. The resources, such as well-equipped libraries, gyms, meditation rooms, and research labs, are exceptional. Group learning, which is encouraged here, prepares us for collaborative work in the future. The exam system in Taiwan, which doesn’t rely heavily on rote learning, is another aspect I appreciate.

Challenges of Studying Abroad

The biggest challenge was obtaining my visa, which required me to travel to India from Nepal and endure a month-long wait. Handling the extensive paperwork and navigating the visa process independently was taxing, but patience helped me through it. I hope future students from Nepal find this process easier.

Future Plans and Staying in Taiwan

As I approach graduation, I am already contemplating returning to Taiwan for my master’s program. The level of professional development and Mandarin proficiency I seek to achieve motivates me to continue my education here. Depending on job opportunities and my progress, I might even consider staying in Taiwan long-term.

Career Benefits

Studying in Taiwan has uniquely positioned me, given the few Nepalese students here. I look forward to sharing my experiences back home, highlighting my personal and professional growth in areas like culture, language, leadership, and networking. Part-time jobs and club activities have also enriched my life education, equipping me with essential academic, research, and technological skills.

Personal Achievements

Winning the “Most Popular Outstanding Student Award” in my university is a highlight, where my personal study experience video received the highest votes. Additionally, participating in various clubs and associations, alongside gaining job experience and internships, are achievements that I cherish from my university years.

Advice for Prospective Students

I advise future students to enhance their Mandarin skills for better communication and opportunities in Taiwan. Taiwanese people are friendly and compassionate, so engaging with them can be advantageous. I also recommend securing the best possible scholarship before coming to Taiwan. Embracing the community and freedom in Taiwan is a decision you won’t regret.