Thanyamai P.janupiboon

I hold a bachelor’s degree in French with a minor in English from Silpakorn University, Thailand. After graduating, I participated in the Work&Travel program in the United States, working as a housekeeper at a resort and a crew member at Taco Bell. Later, I spent 2.5 years as a customer support executive in the tourism industry before pursuing my master’s degree.

My decision to study in Taiwan was influenced by Taiwan’s visa exemption policy for Thai citizens, prompting me to learn more about this country. I visited Taiwan in 2017 and was impressed by its rapid economic growth, industrialization, and high level of education. The prospect of graduating from a country with a stable industrial economy and excellent education motivated me to study here. Additionally, as Thailand is a part of the ASEAN member countries, I saw an opportunity to gain diverse business and management knowledge in Taiwan. I also aimed to improve my Mandarin language skills, recognizing its growing importance in global business.

Academic Experience

I am currently enrolled in a Business Management program, which covers various aspects like competitive advantages, company strategies, organization management, and market positioning. The program also includes subjects like business innovation, marketing, finance, and internationalization management. The most enjoyable aspect for me is the classroom discussions, where students from diverse cultural backgrounds share different perspectives. This has broadened my understanding of the business world and its various influencing factors.

Studying in Taiwan is quite different from my experience in Thailand. In Thailand, classes were mostly lecture-based with limited student participation, whereas in Taiwan, there is more emphasis on class discussions. The school facilities in Taiwan, like the extensive library and software resources, are more advanced than what I had access to in Thailand. However, I found the campus environment and activities in my Thai university more engaging, with regular events and opportunities for students to participate in market days.

Challenges in Applying to Study in Taiwan

Applying to study in Taiwan was relatively accessible, but not without challenges. The requirement for documents to be certified by both the Foreign Ministry of Thailand and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office was time-consuming. Additionally, some universities required application fees to be paid through complicated money transfer processes. I had to ensure that the full amount reached the universities, which involved additional communication and clarification with the banks and the universities.

Future Plans

My education in Taiwan has boosted my confidence and exposed me to diverse ideas and business practices. The quality of the business school, accredited by AACSB, and the practical approach to business education will enhance my problem-solving skills and global management capabilities. This experience will be invaluable in my future career, allowing me to approach business challenges with creativity and effective communication skills.

After completing my studies, my primary plan is to return to Thailand to find a stable job and support my family. However, if an opportunity arises in Taiwan that allows me to maintain close contact with my family, I would consider staying. Any decision to stay in Taiwan would be made in consultation with my family.

Key Achievements in Taiwan

My main achievements in Taiwan include becoming more responsible, open-minded, and enthusiastic. Living abroad has taught me the importance of responsibility and adaptability. Interacting with people from different cultures has made me more open-minded, a crucial trait in the business world. Additionally, staying enthusiastic and ready to adapt to changing technologies and ideas is vital for success in any field.

Advice for Prospective Students

For students considering studying in Taiwan, I advise careful consideration of the chosen field of study and its future benefits. Selecting the right university is crucial, taking into account not just its location and reputation, but also the diversity of its international student body. The more diverse the student population, the richer the learning and cultural experience will be.