Mohammad Ainul Maruf

Choosing Taiwan: One of My Life’s Best Decisions

I’m from Indonesia, with a bachelor’s degree from an Indonesian university and a master’s degree from a university in Thailand. I have six years of work experience in various roles including community development facilitator, program development officer, and lecturer in a public health school. My journey in the health field has led me to Taiwan, where I’m currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Global Health and Health Security at Taipei Medical University. This decision is one of the best I’ve ever made in my life.

My first encounter with Taiwanese academics was during an onsite interview by Taipei Medical University in Jakarta. Their forward-thinking in medicine and health inspired me. Taiwan, known for its quality education and high living standards, offers unique programs like my current study in Global Health and Health Security. The convenience of life here, from food and shelter to transport, and the expertise of the professors, who are often graduates of top global universities, played a significant role in my decision. Taiwan’s high quality of life and healthcare system further solidified my choice.

In the Ph.D. program in Global Health and Health Security at Taipei Medical University, I’ve enjoyed the world-class educational atmosphere. The university’s staff provided great support in transitioning to life in Taiwan. My professors, experts in global health, tailor their approach based on students’ backgrounds, incorporating guest lectures from local and international specialists. I particularly appreciate the diverse perspectives and the encouragement to think creatively.

Comparison with Education in Indonesia

Indonesian higher education is still developing, often hindered by technological limitations and large class sizes. Taiwan, in contrast, offers superior facilities like e-learning portals, access to top international journals, fast internet, and excellent sports facilities. The interactive teaching style here, encouraging active participation and alternative viewpoints, is a refreshing change.

Challenges in Applying to Study in Taiwan

Legalizing my educational documents from Thailand while residing in Indonesia was a major hurdle, involving time-consuming and costly trips. Also, the specific health checks required for the visa application presented logistical challenges. I managed these obstacles by planning ahead and using my savings.

Future Plans and Desire to Stay in Taiwan

Taiwan’s effective response to COVID-19, especially relevant to my field of study, offers practical learning experiences I can take back to my country. The knowledge and methods I’ve acquired here will be invaluable in my teaching career in Indonesia. Publishing scientific articles, a graduation requirement, will also enhance my career prospects.

Post-study, I hope to stay in Taiwan for research or post-doctoral opportunities. However, I might return to Indonesia to teach. I aim to maintain research collaborations with my Taiwanese university and hope to revisit Taiwan to further explore its culture and places, as well as to build more connections.

Showcasing My Culture in Taiwan

So far, my greatest achievement is securing second place in a dance competition at the International Cultural Night on my campus, where my team and I performed traditional dances from our country. It was rewarding to introduce our culture to the professors, students, and staff on campus. Due to challenges in obtaining traditional costumes, my friends and I decided to sew our own dance outfits. We purchased the fabric from Yongle Market in Taipei, which also enabled me to discover affordable shopping places in Taiwan. Additionally, another achievement is maintaining an average score above 85 last semester, enabling me to continue receiving a scholarship from my campus. I am committed to completing my studies on time and aim to publish my research in leading international journals. Another accomplishment worth mentioning is that I have visited several cities outside of Taipei, such as New Taipei City, Taoyuan, Taichung, Hualien, and Taitung, during my winter vacation, mostly on my own. I have also had the opportunity to stay with local people on several occasions.

Advice for Prospective Students

Taiwan offers top-quality education and a high standard of living. With unique and relevant programs, including many in English, it’s an ideal destination for higher education. The culture, natural scenery, modern cities, and the friendly, persevering character of Taiwanese people make studying here a life-enhancing experience, promising career advancements.