Aryanti

I worked as a lecturer in the electrical engineering department, specializing in telecommunications engineering at Indonesia’s Sriwijaya State Polytechnic before coming to Taiwan. Currently, I am a second-year Ph.D. student in electrical engineering at Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology (STUST). My research interests lie in the field of signal processing, and I am currently part of the Biomedical Center Laboratory, focusing on this area under the guidance of my supervisor.

Decision to Study in Taiwan

I chose to study in Taiwan to gain new knowledge and meet friends from around the world, which I believe will open my mind. Financial support through various scholarships offered by the Taiwan government, such as the MOFA Taiwan Scholarship and MOE Taiwan Scholarship, also played a significant role in my decision. Taiwan’s modern, free, and democratic society, characterized by hardworking, fun-loving, and friendly people, attracted me to pursue my education here.

Academic Program

At STUST, I am studying electrical engineering and have taken courses in power systems operation, advance servo control, digital image processing, digital signal processing, biostatistics, renewable energy, and assistive technology devices design concepts. Additionally, I am required to take Mandarin speaking courses and participate in an independent study, which involves presenting personal experiences, journal studies, and research results. The independent study has been particularly enjoyable as it encourages active student engagement and presentation skills.

Comparison with Home Country

Studying in Taiwan differs significantly from my experiences in Indonesia. In Taiwan, many professors have graduated from foreign universities, and almost all university instructors hold professorial titles. In contrast, in Indonesia, it is common to find instructors with master’s degrees or who are doctoral students. Taiwanese universities also offer better facilities and sophisticated laboratories, making the learning process more effective. The overall environment in Taiwanese universities, including their proximity to student accommodations and the focus on hygiene and nutrition in cafeterias, is highly conducive to student life.

Challenges in Applying to Study in Taiwan

The biggest challenge I faced when applying to study in Taiwan was preparing all the required documents, such as health checks, financial statements, certificate translations, transcripts, and visas. The process was complex and required me to travel to Jakarta to complete the formalities at the Taipei Economic and Trade Office (TETO). Despite the challenges, I managed to fulfill all requirements and successfully submit my application.

Future Plans

Upon completing my studies, I plan to return to Indonesia to continue my career as a lecturer. Although Taiwan offers an exciting living and working environment, I have a family in Indonesia, including a husband and two children, which makes it necessary for me to return. My time in Taiwan will enrich my professional and personal growth, enabling me to apply my new knowledge in my home country.

Impact on Future Career

Taiwanese education, particularly in biomedical engineering and biosignal processing, is highly recognized internationally. The knowledge and skills I acquire here, taught by highly qualified instructors, will be applicable in any country, especially those with growing healthcare needs. This academic background will undoubtedly impact my career when I return to Indonesia.

Achievements in Taiwan

My most significant achievement during my studies in Taiwan is becoming an independent learner. I’ve learned to adapt to new environments and cultural differences, like coping with the difficulty of finding halal food and cooking for myself. I have also adapted to interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, learning to balance their characteristics and culture with my own norms and values.

Advice for Prospective Students

For students interested in studying in Taiwan, it’s important to thoroughly research the universities and available scholarships. Understanding the types of scholarships and financial implications is crucial. If you receive a full scholarship, studying in Taiwan is a great opportunity. However, if you only get a partial scholarship, consider the financial burden and ensure you have adequate support before making a decision.