Ghaliza Zahra Anggilira

The Strategic Choice of NYCU

NYCU (National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University) caught my attention because of its strategic focus on merging medical and engineering studies to create innovative solutions for both fields. As one of the best universities in Taiwan, it is proven (now that I am enrolled) that it offers a well-rounded learning process, not only in academic proficiency but also in the cognitive growth of all students. Well-known for its outstanding faculty and advanced research facilities, NYCU allows me to indulge in this ideal environment to fully expand my knowledge in materials and their properties, considering that I am now enrolled in their civil engineering bachelor’s program.

Support for International Students and Future Careers

NYCU also offers English-based courses for several majors, which is advantageous for international students who have not fully mastered the Mandarin language but are still interested in pursuing a degree in Taiwan. This option applies to all degrees: bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD. In addition, international students have the chance to receive a scholarship from NYCU that can be renewed annually if an individual is able to perform well in their academic performance. To prepare students for their career, NYCU has an annual career program featuring well-known companies that are hiring fresh graduates. It clearly shows how supportive the university is, not only in the learning process but also in the future development of each student.

Diving into Civil Engineering

In mid-2025, I started my journey as a bachelor’s student at NYCU, within the Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering. Being a part of this department is surprisingly delightful, from learning to its social environment.

Civil engineering in NYCU fascinated me because the department highlights how infrastructures impact the community’s efficiency, mobility, and even safety during disasters. It is not just about the aesthetic, but also the strong foundation and calculation related to people protection and disaster prevention. If you are interested in learning about both structures and materials and have a strong goal to enhance human life safety and quality, this major is perfect for you.

A Focus on Practical Application

The curriculum is also packed with fundamental topics regarding structures and materials, followed by professional education. The professional education begins with lectures from professors with diverse backgrounds and even from well-known companies with engineering design and construction expertise. At NYCU, students are exposed to real-world engineering applications outside of its theoretical environment.

This major is also perfect for international students as it has English-taught classes. It is taught by professors who graduated from prestigious universities, both locally and internationally. The class is a melting pot for both international students and local students. It has given me the opportunity to converse and get to know people from varying countries as classmates, getting to know new cultures and lifestyles.

Essential Steps for Studying in Taiwan

I would totally recommend international students to continue their studies in Taiwan. Make sure you are prepared before you jump to conclusions about studying in Taiwan.

Do as much research as possible. Start from the school, its majors, and even each department’s syllabus! It is a big decision as you are going to pursue a degree in a foreign country for a few years. Make sure you would not regret or settle for a choice that is not compatible with you. What my high school teachers had suggested, and what is equally essential, is to look up the list of professors on each university website. It helps you to evaluate the university’s academic quality and align your interests with their research and publications.

Other than that, I recommend you learn the basics of the Mandarin language, even if it is just a little. At least you can say your Chinese name, write it, and say simple sentences to other people. Taiwan also has language programs to fully prepare international students before pursuing a degree.

Lastly, look for a supportive community. Being an international student can be more delightful if you meet other people who probably come from the same or different countries. In universities, the international student associations conduct several events for international students to experience. Not only can you make more international friends but also explore Taiwan and learn its cultures together.