Chun Jes Yee

I arrived in Taiwan in February 2017 to join a preparatory program for overseas Chinese students in New Taipei City. There, I made friends from around the world and immersed myself in a truly Taiwanese environment. It has been an enriching experience, and I am proud to be a Student Ambassador at the National University of Kaohsiung. Additionally, I serve as the chairman of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature Student Association. Kaohsiung is a wonderful place with delicious food that I have come to love.

Choosing Taiwan, A Truely Unique Place

I chose Taiwan for its excellent university learning environment, which enhances the quality of education and promotes Taiwan’s international academic competitiveness. The tuition fees at Taiwanese universities are reasonable and affordable for overseas students, and the Taiwanese government offers various scholarships. Taiwan’s rich culture, with its traditional Chinese temples, food, and calligraphy, is truly unique. Additionally, the energy and enthusiasm of Taiwan’s residents are infectious. The country’s advanced infrastructure and convenient transportation make studying and living here comfortable. Taiwanese universities offer a wide range of majors and programs for students.

Academic Journey at National University of Kaohsiung

I am studying in the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature, specializing in Japanese. To address the multiple needs of Taiwan’s economy and society amidst global integration, my department is divided into three groups: Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese. Our aim is to cultivate students who excel in East Asian languages. To enhance language proficiency, the department offers practical courses and overseas study programs. Interacting with foreign teachers and participating in seminars with students from Japanese universities are aspects I enjoy the most. As a language student, I believe enthusiasm and passion are crucial. Besides academics, daily classroom interaction and communication are important for language learners.

Taiwan’s robust technology sector ensures high-quality education in all fields. Universities here boast libraries filled with reference books, novels, journals, and magazines for students and teachers. In contrast, Malaysian universities have fewer books, mostly in English and Malay, making it difficult to find Mandarin literature. Malaysian university courses, often conducted in large lecture halls, can hinder student concentration. In Taiwan, most of my courses use multimedia aids like computers and LED projectors, enhancing the learning experience.

Participating in club activities has taught me the importance of group dynamics and communication skills, which I find essential in life. As chairman of the association, I have learned the value of teamwork, especially when organizing events at the university. University education is not just about learning a major; it’s also about gaining experience in various situations. Studying abroad has fostered my independence.

The biggest challenge in applying to study in Taiwan was preparing the application documents. As a graduate of a national high school in Malaysia, all my certificates and exam results were in Malay. To overcome this, I had to translate all relevant documents into Chinese and get them certified by my high school, which was a slow process. I frequently had to remind the school’s administration to expedite the process.

Post-Graduation Plans

The overseas study programs offered by the National University of Kaohsiung have greatly enhanced my language skills and understanding of political, economic, and social cultures in East Asian nations. Practical courses have improved my speaking skills in Japanese and English. Although I am Malaysian Chinese, my Mandarin speaking abilities were not as strong as those of Taiwanese people. Immersing myself in Taiwanese culture has significantly improved my Mandarin language skills, which will be beneficial in my future career.

After completing my bachelor’s degree, I plan to stay in Taiwan because I feel comfortable and enjoy the unique cultural experiences here. My intention is to find a job in Kaohsiung related to the Japanese language, as I am interested in pursuing a master’s degree in this field. Additionally, I plan to travel to every city in Taiwan with my parents and spend quality time with them.

Advice for Future Students

Taiwan is a country that welcomes foreigners warmly, so do not hesitate if you are interested in studying here. Taiwanese universities offer a wide variety of majors and programs for overseas students. The culture is rich and there are beautiful places to visit. Studying abroad can enhance job opportunities in your home country. If you have concerns, remember that the Taiwan, R.O.C. Government and University Entrance Committee for Overseas Chinese Students offer many scholarships. The Office of International Affairs is also there to support your studies.