Nathanael Tjahyadi

A Legacy of Technical Excellence

I decided to continue my graduate studies at National Taipei University of Technology (Taipei Tech/NTUT) for several reasons that felt practical, personal, and aligned with my long-term goals. One of the first things that convinced me was the university’s strong reputation in engineering and technology. Taipei Tech has been around for over a century, and its long history in technical education made me confident that the academic foundation here would be solid. The university also consistently appears in top rankings for engineering and computer science within Taiwan, which reassured me that the environment would be competitive and academically strong.

Financial Support and Industry Connections

Another reason was the scholarship opportunity offered to international students. This support makes a significant difference for students coming from abroad, and it reflects the university’s willingness to invest in international talent. Knowing that Taipei Tech provides tuition waivers and monthly stipends gave me the freedom to focus on my studies and research without being overwhelmed by financial concerns.

I was also attracted by Taipei Tech’s close relationships with industry. The university has ongoing collaborations with leading companies in fields like electronics, automation, and information technology. For someone interested in IoT, cloud systems, and applied computer engineering, this connection to real-world industry is very valuable. It means more chances to join research projects, explore internships, and eventually connect with potential employers. In the end, I chose Taipei Tech because it offers a balanced combination of strong academics, financial support, historical credibility, and industry engagement. All of these factors make it a place where I feel I can grow both academically and professionally.

Deepening Knowledge in EECS

Choosing the EECS program at Taipei Tech felt like a natural continuation of what I studied during my undergraduate years. My background in computer engineering aligns closely with the core areas of this program, especially in topics such as IoT, cloud systems, embedded technologies, and applied computing. Because of that, I saw this program as the right place to deepen the knowledge I already had while also exploring more advanced concepts required in today’s technology landscape.

Another factor that influenced my decision is Taiwan’s position as one of the most advanced technology hubs in Asia. The country's strong ecosystem in electronics, semiconductors, networking, and smart manufacturing creates an environment where students in IT and engineering can grow quickly. I believe that fields like EECS will continue to be in high demand, especially with rapid developments in AI, edge computing, automation, and digital transformation. Studying in a place where these technologies are actively developed gives me a clear advantage for my future career.

The Value of a Diverse Classroom

I also appreciate that this program is fully taught in English. As an international student, this makes it much easier for me to follow technical courses and communicate effectively without language barriers, especially during the early stages of adaptation. Beyond academics, the professors at Taipei Tech are approachable and genuinely supportive. My interactions with them so far have shown that they are willing to guide students, give feedback, and help shape research directions.

Another aspect I value is the diversity in the classroom. Many of my classmates come from different backgrounds and countries, which creates a dynamic learning atmosphere and exposes me to different ways of thinking. Finally, Taiwan’s availability of internships in major tech industries adds strong motivation, as it provides a direct pathway to gain real experience and build a professional network for the future.

Guidance for Future Taiwan Students

For international students who are considering studying in Taiwan, the first piece of advice I would give is not to worry too much about your Mandarin proficiency. Many universities in Taiwan offer programs fully taught in English, and both professors and administrative staff are generally very understanding and supportive toward international students. While learning Mandarin gradually will definitely be helpful, it is not something that should hold you back from making the decision to study here.

Another important point is that Taiwan provides strong support for foreign students in terms of scholarships and student services. Depending on the university and the program, there are various financial aid opportunities—some offered directly by the schools, and others by the Ministry of Education. These supports help reduce the financial burden and allow students to focus on their academic and personal development. On campus, you will also find many services designed to help international students adapt smoothly, from housing assistance to orientation programs.

Embracing Personal and Cultural Growth

Studying in Taiwan is not just about academic growth; it is also a life experience. Living in another country teaches you how to be independent, solve daily challenges, and understand different cultural values. Taiwan is a safe, friendly, and culturally rich place, making the whole experience both enjoyable and meaningful. You will meet people from many backgrounds, try new foods, learn different customs, and discover perspectives you may not have encountered before.

Lastly, be open to new experiences and step out of your comfort zone. Whether it is joining student clubs, traveling to different cities, taking part in cultural events, or simply trying to communicate in a new language, all of these experiences will shape you in positive ways. Taiwan is a place where you can grow academically and personally, and the journey becomes even more rewarding when you are willing to learn, adapt, and embrace change.