Perceptions of Students

Vietnam

Eric Ong We Kwang


University
National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism
Major
Management and administration


Hello everyone, this is Eric. I am the student who is addicted to event organizer and yearn for a leader position no matter how the situation is. I used to be the President of Boy Scout Troop, Debating Association and International Students Association during my event career for the past 10 years.‘Chasing Excellent, success will follow’ is my classic maxim. As an outgoing teenager, I do not only thrive in extracurricular activities but also be outstanding in my academic performance. Learning is the passport to the future since I am eager and never stop learning new knowledge all the time.



1. What made you decide to study in Taiwan?



Studying overseas was a big decision for me in 2015. Then Why I choose Taiwan not other country? I came to Taiwan to participate an international scouting event when I was 16 years old. Taiwan is a modern, free, democratic society whose people are hardworking, fun-loving, educated and friendly. These features of Taiwan are not only a stereotype from my fellow but also the very own experience for me during the trip. As a competitive teenager, I strive for not staying in the comfort pit and extremely decide to study in Taiwan in the future. As a result, my research and hard work of university of Taiwan get started! 



2.  Briefly tell us about the program you are studying. What subjects are you studying? What have you enjoyed the most in your studies?



I am majoring in International Tourism Management which is my very first selective program. When I was deciding on my subject, I was fascinated by the description of my current program. It is a department of international college which means every lecture will be completely taught in English. It became a best opportunity for me to continually enhance my English ability even though I am using Chinese in Taiwan every day.

In my subject, practical training is always more than theory. The characteristic of my department that I enjoyed the most is unlike other programs in my university, I am able to learn different aspect of the knowledge in service industry which including hotel, F&B, event, aviation and travel management. On the hand, it is mandatory to wear uniform in my university, it made us look professional and well-prepared all the time.



3. How is studying in Taiwan when compared to studying and being a student in your home country? (Teaching Quality、Environment、School Equipment、Laboratory or others)



As a student in 21st century, I advocate the thought of going as far as you can. In contrast, to study in Malaysia, the moment when I left my comfort zone and moved to a new place is absolutely marvelous. The new traits of the surrounding culture, a beautiful and big island.

Taiwanese are an amiable ethnicity and the daily environment here is much more convenient than my country. The technology, transportation, assistant system of daily necessity are very modern and flourished. Especially when talking about teaching quality and school equipment, Taiwan undoubtedly has the more professional resources.



4. What has been the most difficult part about applying to study in Taiwan? How did you overcome the difficulty?



I come from a single parent family. Although it drove me to have a positive mindset and longing to be successful since I was a child, financial problem is always the biggest consideration of my family. We borrow the money from our relatives and apply for bank loan. Fortunately, I got some scholarship and financial aid for my tuition fee.

Hence, instead of giving up my opportunity of future studies, I am able to apply for studying in Taiwan. I have plenty of questions regarding the process of starting school season before getting to Taiwan, I sent email to the International Affairs of my university, I really appreciate that they answer all of my issues.



5.  What do you plan to do after you have finish your studies in Taiwan? Would you like to stay in Taiwan?  Why? 



I will definitely graduate in late June of this year. I am currently finding an employment opportunity in event company as an event organizer or project manager in Taiwan. In my career planning, I intend to stay in Taiwan for 1 to 3years as an event planner in order to get my starting experience in this industry In details, I prefer to stay in Kaohsiung instead of Taipei because of the living expenses.

After that, since Taiwan is the intersection of my career, if I have a better drop, I may either move to western country or China after 1 to 3 years but it still subject to change. Due to the MICE development in Taiwan has gradually been increasing nowadays, I may stay in Taiwan as a long-term basic as well. I mean, life plan is just a plan, right? I will explore and create my life joyfully!



6.  How do you think studying in Taiwan can benefit you in your future career?



Economic and development of Taiwan are much more prosperous than most of the developing country especially my favorite, MICE industry. As a student graduate in Taiwan, I will have more opportunity to start my future career because of the recommendation of the professional professors.

In National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, it is compulsory for us to have 1-year internship in the industry. We have to devote ourselves to the alternative company and well train during the year. I have my internship in Marina Mandarin Hotel of Singapore as a front office counter reception.



7.  What do you see as your key achievements when studying in Taiwan?



If compare with other countries, Taiwan will be more attentive in extracurricular activity which means it is the best platform for me to exert and ‘refine’ my knowledge and ability. As a president of International Students Association which is leading more than 250++ overseas students, my team and I have conducted a lot of successful events which complimented by many of our professors and participants. I met a lot of great people as my role model.

My language skill has been improved a lot as well. Last but not least, I breakthrough the record for the past 30 years and successfully overcome all my colleagues soon became the (Top-Upseller) in the 5 stars hotel of Singapore when having my internship. 



All of these accomplishments just because I am studying in Taiwan.



8. What advice do you have for other interested overseas students who want to come to Taiwan to study?



Try everything when you are here. Don’t miss any stunning scenery of this country so please feel free to travel around and experience the beautiful culture and story in Taiwan. Meet more people and share their joyfulness.

Spend your time wisely and plan for your future in every moment. The best way to predict your future is to create it! Explore and enjoy your life then! Cheers Man!