Ong Liang Yu

The Taiwan and NTNU Experience

Believing in the transformative power of education, I chose to further my studies in the field of education. I am dedicated to striving for social justice and have been working towards this belief for over 10 years.

When considering tertiary education, the quality of education is paramount for me. Some of my closest friends in Malaysia studied in Taiwan, and their glowing reviews of studying and living there convinced me of the credibility of Taiwan’s education system and its attractive lifestyle. Moreover, my amazing travel experiences in Taiwan, with its breathtaking scenery, comfortable and clean environment, and friendly, helpful people, solidified my decision to study there.

I am studying in the Department of Education at NTNU. Our curriculum includes studies in multicultural education, educational philosophy, sociology of education, methodology of pedagogy, humanism & education, and studies in school culture, among others. The classes, taught by professors who have achieved remarkable success in research and practice, explore various theories interpreting human nature. This broad spectrum of perspectives, ranging from psychology to sociology and philosophy, has significantly broadened my horizons.

The most significant achievement during my studies in Taiwan is making Taiwanese friends who treat me like family. I’ve had the opportunity to visit their homes, meet their parents, and travel around the country. They’ve assisted me in finding a decent apartment and moving, and have cared for me when I was sick. Having heard about the friendliness of Taiwanese people, I’ve now experienced it firsthand.

Comparison & Applying Process

In Malaysia, there are two types of universities: private and public. The private universities offer excellent teaching, courses, teachers, environment, facilities, etc., but their tuition fees are expensive and often unaffordable. There are about twenty public universities, with the University of Malaya being the most prestigious. However, even as the top public university in Malaysia, its quality and ranking do not match those of top Taiwanese universities like NTU and NTHU. Additionally, the environment in Malaysian public universities is less comfortable due to limited government funding in education.

Applying for a PhD in Taiwan was challenging, particularly because different universities have varying enrolment requirements and deadlines. I took the opportunity to apply to two universities and three different departments/graduate schools. Writing distinct papers for each university under time constraints was nerve-wracking. However, I overcame this by creating and adhering to a work schedule, which helped me stay focused and calm.

Future Plan

Studying in NTNU’s Department of Education has given me a profound understanding of education and how to improve Malaysia’s education system. The knowledge, skills, and critical thinking I’ve gained in Taiwan have shaped me into a more sensitive and thoughtful individual. I believe that having broad horizons and deep thoughts is essential in any field. Studying in Taiwan has enabled me to become a well-rounded human being before becoming a worker or educator.

After graduation, I aspire to work in Taiwan as a gesture of gratitude for the educational opportunities I’ve received. I have grown to love life in Taiwan, with its delightful food, efficient transportation, pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and wonderful people. I believe working in Taiwan, with its unique culture, will provide enriching and rewarding experiences.

Advice for Prospective Students

I advise those wishing to study in Taiwan to start preparing their applications as early as possible. Gathering sufficient information for a smooth application process is crucial. Find reliable sources like studyintaiwan.org for information. Begin the process once you’ve decided, and plan your progress to avoid panic as deadlines approach. Additionally, connecting with associations in your country, like the Malaysian student association in Taiwan, can be incredibly helpful.