Living and Studying in Taiwan: Alice's Story at National Taipei University

Summary

Jungle G, a Vietnamese student at Taipei University, shares his motivations and experiences studying abroad in Taiwan. He highlights the personal growth, cultural exposure, and educational opportunities that have shaped his journey. Inspired by a love for the Chinese language and a desire to step out of his comfort zone, Jungle G emphasizes the supportive environment at his university, the warm Taiwanese people, and the enriching interactions with international classmates. Despite challenges like homesickness, he celebrates how Taiwan has helped him grow more confident, independent, and open-minded.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jungle G, a student from Vietnam, is currently studying at Taipei University in Taiwan, pursuing a degree in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language.
• 😀 The main motivation for studying abroad is to step out of his comfort zone, challenge himself, and experience new cultures and environments.
• 😀 Studying abroad is compared to reading a book—living the story rather than just observing it, offering opportunities for personal growth and increased confidence.
• 😀 The Chinese language has been a passion for Jungle G since primary school, which led him to seek a country where he could use it in daily life.
• 😀 Taiwan offers a strong educational system with well-structured programs and government scholarships that attract international students.
• 😀 Taiwan is known for being a friendly and welcoming country, which made Jungle G feel comfortable and supported, especially in the early stages of his stay.
• 😀 National Taipei University was chosen for its focus on teaching Chinese, aligning with Jungle G’s career aspirations to become a teacher.
• 😀 The peaceful campus environment of Taipei University, surrounded by mountains and nature, contributes to a stress-free study atmosphere.
• 😀 The supportive professors and friendly classmates from various countries have made Jungle G feel like part of a family during his studies in Taiwan.
• 😀 Studying abroad has allowed Jungle G to grow personally, become more independent, and open-minded, while also adapting to and respecting different cultures.
• 😀 One of the challenges of studying abroad is being far from home, especially during holidays, but over time, Jungle G has become more familiar with Taiwan and its people.
• 😀 Language barriers can be overcome with practice, and Taiwanese people are encouraging and patient with international students, helping them feel more confident in using Chinese.
• 😀 Jungle G advises other international students to embrace new experiences, step out of their comfort zones, and take advantage of Taiwan’s opportunities to explore its culture and lifestyle.

Q & A

Why does Jungle G want to study abroad?

Jungle G wants to step out of his comfort zone, challenge himself, and explore new places and cultures. He believes studying abroad will help him grow faster, become more confident and independent.

What are the three main reasons Jungle G chose Taiwan?

The first reason is his long-standing love for the Chinese language, which he started learning in primary school. The second reason is Taiwan's good educational system, which offers well-structured programs and scholarships for international students. The third reason is the friendliness of the people in Taiwan, which made him feel welcomed.

Why did Jungle G choose National Taipei University?

He chose National Taipei University because it offers a department focused on teaching Chinese as a second language, aligning with his dream of becoming a teacher. Additionally, the university’s peaceful campus, surrounded by mountains and nature, offers a relaxing atmosphere conducive to study.

What has been Jungle G’s experience with his professors and classmates?

Jungle G has had a positive experience with both his professors and classmates. His professors are supportive and encouraging, while his classmates, who come from diverse countries, are friendly and always ready to help. He feels like part of a family.

What personal growth has Jungle G experienced while studying abroad?

Studying abroad has made Jungle G more confident, independent, and open-minded. He has learned to solve problems on his own, adapted to different cultures, and respected various ways of thinking from people around the world.

What are the benefits of studying in Taiwan, according to Jungle G?

Jungle G mentions three main benefits: a good education system recognized worldwide, personal growth through challenges like language barriers and cultural differences, and the opportunity to interact with people from various cultures.

What has been the most challenging part of studying abroad for Jungle G?

The most challenging part has been living far from home, especially during holidays when he cannot celebrate with his family. Although he enjoys life in Taiwan, he still misses home at times.

What advice does Jungle G give to potential international students?

Jungle G advises potential international students not to be afraid to step out of their comfort zones and to come to Taiwan with an open mind. He encourages them to embrace new experiences and assures them that even if their language skills are not perfect, the local people will be patient and supportive.

How does Jungle G recommend improving Chinese language skills in Taiwan?

Jungle G recommends practicing Chinese in daily life, whether by chatting with friends, ordering food, or having simple conversations. He emphasizes that local people in Taiwan are encouraging and will help students feel confident using the language.

What does Jungle G enjoy most about Taiwan outside of academics?

Jungle G enjoys exploring the Taiwanese lifestyle, such as hiking in the mountains, visiting night markets, and going to old streets. He finds these experiences enrich his time abroad and contribute to his personal growth.