My Experience of Learning Chinese and Living in Taiwan (艾德豪)
My journey of learning Chinese and living in Taiwan began with a remarkable opportunity provided by the MOFA scholarship. In my first year, I studied Chinese at Fo Guang University in Yilan City, a scenic location known for its natural beauty and cultural richness. Yilan City offered an ideal environment for my initial immersion into Taiwanese culture. The peaceful environment and the welcoming community made my transition smoother and more enjoyable.
When I first arrived in Taiwan, I faced significant challenges with Chinese grammar, writing, and listening. Every part of the language felt overwhelming. However, my persistence paid off. After two months of intense study, I began to see improvements. Understanding the language gradually became easier, and by the end of my first year, I could speak Chinese confidently. Achieving a B1 level on the TOCFL after just eight months of studying was a testament to my hard work and the supportive environment at Fo Guang University.
Living in Yilan City was a delightful experience. The city’s serene environment and vibrant cultural scene offered numerous opportunities for cultural immersion. I participated in various cultural events, which helped me gain a deeper understanding of Taiwanese traditions and values. During my free time, I explored the county on my bike, discovering its scenic landscapes and charming local spots. These experiences not only enriched my understanding of Taiwanese culture but also made my adaptation to life in Taiwan much smoother.
After a year of studying Chinese, I was ready to pursue my academic goals. I chose to study Civil Engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), previously known as National Chiao Tung University (NCTU). Several factors influenced my decision, including the university’s stellar reputation, high educational standards, and the appealing extracurricular activities offered throughout the academic year.
At NYCU, I was fully engaged in both academic and extracurricular activities. I became a member of the university’s soccer team, where I played throughout the four years of my studies. Balancing academics and sports were challenging yet rewarding, as it allowed me to develop discipline and teamwork skills. Additionally, I continued to improve my Chinese by enrolling in the university’s Chinese courses. One of the most memorable experiences was studying under highly skilled teachers who made Chinese classes both enjoyable and relaxing. Their teaching techniques ignited a genuine enthusiasm for the language and culture in all students.
Beyond academics, I took full advantage of living in Taiwan by exploring its natural and cultural treasures. During my second semester, I hiked Jade Mountain, Taiwan’s tallest peak, which was a breathtaking and memorable adventure. I visited nearly all of Taiwan’s counties, except Taitung and the surrounding islands. Despite getting lost many times, the combination of Google Maps and the kindness of the local people always guided me back on track. Taiwan’s excellent transportation system and the overall safety of the country made these explorations enjoyable and stress-free.
Living in Taiwan and learning Chinese significantly contributed to my personal growth. The initial struggles with the language taught me resilience and determination. The supportive and inclusive Taiwanese community helped me build lasting friendships and understand diverse perspectives. Through my academic and cultural experiences, I gained a deeper appreciation for Taiwanese culture and the way of life.
To sum up all, my experience of learning Chinese and living in Taiwan has been transformative. The challenges I faced and the milestones I achieved have shaped me into a more resilient, adaptable, and culturally aware individual. From the amazing landscapes of Yilan to the dynamic academic environment of NYCU, every experience in Taiwan has been a foundation for my personal and professional growth. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and experiences that Taiwan has offered me, and I look forward to applying the lessons learned in my future endeavors.
