Japan
I believe in "learning by doing," and the resources here have been instrumental in connecting me to the professional world.
My journey with Taiwan began when I was just thirteen years old. It was the first place I traveled that truly felt like home, thanks to its vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, and, most importantly, the genuine warmth of its people. After visiting twice, I knew I wanted to spend more time here. My decision to study in Taiwan is driven by a desire to bridge cultures. I view Mandarin not just as a language. I am committed to mastering it to move beyond being a visitor and become a truly integrated global professional. Taiwan offers the perfect ecosystem where I can combine my academic ambitions with a culture I deeply admire. Ultimately, I want to become a "bridge-builder" in the international business community, turning my decade-long appreciation for Taiwan into a meaningful, professional career.
When it came time to choose a university, National Taiwan University (NTU) was the clear choice. As the premier comprehensive institution in Taiwan, it provides an unparalleled academic environment with vast resources and a student body representing diverse majors. I am constantly surrounded by highly intelligent peers for whom making a great effort is simply the "normal" standard. This environment is more challenging than I expected, but seeing my peers push themselves in internships, exchange programs, and extracurriculars motivates me to reach even higher. With over 7,000 international students, NTU is a truly global community. This is a great chance for me to make friends from all over the world. By sharing ideas with people from different cultures, I can grow as an international person.
My passion for business became a true calling during an exchange program in the U.S., where I visited "Ellen’s Stardust Diner" in New York. Seeing aspiring Broadway performers sing for tips that funded their own lessons—creating a win-win cycle that benefited the staff, the business, and the tourists—was a turning point for me. It taught me how marketing can create "new value" that benefits everyone. I chose NTU’s Department of Business Administration specifically because its specialized modules allow me to dive deep into the Marketing Management module while also gaining a broad understanding of other business areas. My goal is to apply a marketing lens to Taiwan’s unique cultural assets, discovering and promoting their value to the world just as that diner did for New York.
Mastering professional subjects in a second language is a significant challenge. Mandarin pronunciation is particularly demanding because tones are so vital; a small mistake can change an entire meaning. However, the support system at NTU is exceptional. Whenever I face difficulties, I turn to Teaching Assistant (TA) sessions to break down complex topics and get advice on how to study effectively. Since I live in a dormitory where it can be hard to concentrate, I often find sanctuary in the 24-hour study room in the library basement. Being in a quiet environment, surrounded by other students working hard, gives me the focus and motivation I need to keep up with my academic goals.
My growth in Taiwan hasn't been limited to textbooks. I joined the department volleyball team to stay active and build deep friendships with my Taiwanese peers; playing together has taught me how to communicate under pressure and work toward a common goal. During my time at the NCCU language school, I served as the Vice President of Public Relations for the Toastmasters Club and challenged myself in a Chinese speaking contest to build my confidence. I’ve also participated in leadership and innovation summits, which allowed me to meet global leaders and sharpen my own vision for the future. These "soft skills" are essential for my future career in management and marketing.
I believe in "learning by doing," and the resources here have been instrumental in connecting me to the professional world. This semester, I am participating in the International Companion Learning (ICL) program, using video conferencing to act as a cultural ambassador for K-12 students in rural Taiwan. This experience has shown me how digital tools can expand the possibilities of young people, regardless of their location. Furthermore, the NTU International Mentorship Program and the Office of International Affairs (OIA) provide robust networking and internship support. These resources, combined with a vast alumni network, give me a clear roadmap for navigating real-world business operations and an international career path.
After graduation, I plan to start my career in a global hub like Tokyo to gain diverse experience in management and entrepreneurship. My ultimate aspiration is to become a marketing consultant who addresses social issues, such as regional economic and information gaps. I want to be the "key" that unlocks the curiosity of others and encourages them to test the limits of their own potential. As Albert Einstein said, "Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age eighteen." By eventually reinvesting my success into education and study-abroad scholarships, I hope to provide the next generation with the same life-changing perspectives and "new values" that Taiwan has given to me.
