Stepping into a New Land

Stepping into a new and unfamiliar land always brings mixed emotions. Quoc feels overwhelmed by the romance and mystery of the island, the development of the economy and the welcome of Taiwanese. “After coming back from the NCCU exchange trip, I confirm that what was known about this island is completely accurate” - said Quoc. Besides, Taiwan is a culinary paradise, a point of intersection between tradition and modernity. Nature has endowed Taiwan with mysterious waterfalls, majestic mountains, and above all, warm and loving human connection.

“I made my ticket reservation only 10 days before the semester began to ensure that I’ve prepared the best for my first abroad trip” - said Quoc. However, anxiety struck as soon as he/she stepped foot in the airport, discovering that his/her bank card was blocked and had only $100 left in hand.

While figuring out a solution, Quoc met an elderly woman and asked for directions, but the woman did not understand English or Chinese. Thinking that he was in need, the woman unexpectedly put "a handful of money" into his hand. “The moment I witnessed this heartwarming gesture, I truly ‘fell in love’ with the people here”.

The very next morning, with enthusiastic support from the lecturers at NCCU, Quoc completed the procedures to apply for a citizen ID and open a bank account in Taiwan. “Having solved the financial problem, I began to integrate and socialize with my dormmates. Together, we explored the campus, bought SIM cards and necessary supplies. Seizing the days before the semester started, we visited many famous places in Taipei such as the National Palace Museum, the National Taiwan Museum, and the night market…”.

A semester at NCCU

On September 8, 2023, Quoc attended the NCCU’s orientation session for international students. This is a regular event of NCCU to help them better understand the study program and participate in a fire safety training session organized by the local police.

During this exchange semester, Quoc registered for 6 courses. “It took me two weeks to adapt to the new learning environment as all the courses had a lot of new knowledge and were taught entirely in English”. Moreover, the lecture halls were far apart and the distance from the dormitory to the lecture halls was quite far, so he also spent a lot of time arranging and adjusting the schedule.

The International Investment class taught by Professor Fu Yee-Tien was the most memorable course for Quoc. “Despite being nearly 70 years old, Fu Yee-Tien was still sharp, enthusiastic and caring for the students”. In addition to the academic program, NCCU also organizes a variety of extracurricular activities to help students apply their knowledge and enhance their social skills. 

At the study abroad fair organized at the beginning of the new academic year, Quoc introduced the UEB - VNU to international friends. The international students were very interested in the information about UEB - VNU and expressed their desire to come to the university for an exchange.

Making friends, Having Fun and Exploring Taiwan

In addition to studying, Quoc also spent a lot of time socializing and making friends. While hiking with two German friends, he met a Taiwanese woman and was invited to his house for tea and conversation. Although they only knew each other for a day, they had a very happy and friendly conversation. “I also felt lucky to have met wonderful friends in the dormitory”. Each room has 4 people, and the student shared a room with a German, a Japanese and an American friend. They were all very friendly, welcoming and caring for each other. With the motto “No one is left behind”, all the exchange students would never be alone.

“Being one of the few Vietnamese students at NCCU, I considered my dormmates as my family to share joys, worries, goals and dreams”.

Troubles in Taiwan

If there was one thing Quoc didn't like about it, it would be the weather. In Taiwan, I always had to carry an umbrella when going out because the weather forecast was often inaccurate. There were days when the morning was warm and sunny, but in the afternoon there was a cold wind, dark clouds gathered and it suddenly rained heavily. Fortunately, at those times, the student always had friends by/his side and they gathered in the dorm to chat.

Coming Home

Waking up after a 3-hour flight, Quoc arrived at Noi Bai, officially closing a semester full of emotions and meaning. “The past few months have been the most special and unforgettable time for me. Each day that passed, I learned and grew up”.

As a part of the UEB exchange student, Quoc did not waste his youth during 4 university years. So what about you? Are you ready to color your youth? Grab your opportunities and register to participate in the International Student Exchange!

>>> Click here to see the news in Vietnamese.