Nguyen Thi My Dung

Motivation for Studying in Taiwan

I am an alumna of the Foreign Trade University, HCM city campus, majoring in International Business Economics. My professional journey includes eight years in the banking industry. Seeking new challenges and experiences, I embarked on an academic adventure in Taiwan and am currently enrolled in the International Master of Business Administration program at I-Shou University, Kaohsiung. I embrace changes and challenges, believing they prevent stagnation. In Taiwan, I enjoy playing my ukulele during leisure times and have been savoring every moment of my stay, whether it’s socializing with friends or spending time alone.

When I was an undergraduate, the dream of studying abroad was strong. Despite a good position in a reputable bank, the urge to study abroad persisted. The inspiration to study in Taiwan came unexpectedly through a student’s Facebook page. I was drawn to his experiences shared through videos and blogs. Research showed that Taiwanese universities rank highly on the global stage. The choice of Taiwan was also influenced by the Taiwanese Government’s supportive policies for foreign students, offering affordable education through scholarships. The diversity of student bodies in Taiwanese universities, around 30-40% being international students, promised a global learning environment. Additionally, my prior study of Mandarin Chinese made Taiwan an appealing destination to further immerse myself in the language. Taiwan’s beautiful landscapes, advanced infrastructure, and cultural similarities with Vietnam further solidified my decision.

Academic Experience in Taiwan

I’m pursuing an International MBA, taught entirely in English. The highlight of my studies has been the multicultural environment, with classmates from various countries and lecturers of different nationalities. This setting has been instrumental in developing my skills in cultural adaptation, networking, and building professional and personal relationships. The program’s philosophy of “Learning-sharing-networking-leading” resonates with me, and I find value in sharing my strengths with others for mutual enrichment.

Post completing a semester, I’ve noticed several distinctions between education in Taiwan and Vietnam. In Taiwan, students, including myself, feel more comfortable asking questions and engaging with teachers, a contrast to the more passive learning style in Vietnam. The smaller class sizes in Taiwan facilitate better interaction with lecturers and peers. Taiwanese universities boast modern facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities, creating a dynamic learning environment. These aspects make Taiwan an excellent choice for international students.

Applying to Taiwanese universities was straightforward, but crafting an outstanding motivation letter was a significant challenge. I developed a structured approach, brainstorming ideas and meticulously refining my essay with grammar checks and revisions. I also sought feedback from a friend experienced in the U.S. education system to ensure the essay accurately reflected my aspirations and ideas. This thorough preparation was crucial in my successful applications.

One of my significant achievements in Taiwan has been overcoming my apprehension with creating presentations. Initially hesitant due to limited experience, I embraced the challenge and improved my skills in making effective PowerPoint presentations. This has boosted my confidence in individual presentations and is a valuable skill I acquired during my studies.

Career Aspirations and Post-Graduation Plans

My time in Taiwan has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. Studying in English while improving my Mandarin has enhanced my linguistic skills, a valuable asset in today’s globalized world. Living abroad has also fostered my independence and expanded my international network, which will be beneficial for my future career.

Post-graduation, my immediate goal is to become a funding analyst, leveraging my enhanced financial and management knowledge from the MBA program. I aim to contribute significantly to Vietnam’s economic growth and finance sector. My long-term aspiration is to become a Fund Manager and eventually, a part-time lecturer, sharing my expertise and experiences. I plan to return to Vietnam to fulfill these goals, applying the knowledge and experiences from my Taiwanese education.

Advice for Prospective Taiwanese International Students

It’s essential for future students to understand their own needs and the teaching methods of Taiwanese universities. Some institutions focus on theoretical knowledge, while others emphasize practical skills. Reflecting on my extensive work experience, I prefer a theoretical approach, linking academic concepts to real-world applications. However, students fresh from undergraduate studies might favor a more hands-on learning experience. My advice is to thoroughly research and understand your own preferences and goals before choosing a university in Taiwan, ensuring a fulfilling educational journey.