Kingdom of Eswatini
As someone studying computing, being in a place known for its technical advancement is very inspiring.
My decision to study in Taiwan was shaped by a blend of practical ease and a deep-seated personal interest in technology. Coming from Eswatini, a country that maintains strong diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the journey began with a sense of welcome. One of the main reasons is that my home country has diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which made the process of coming here much easier. The visa process was straightforward and uncomplicated, which allowed me to focus entirely on preparing for my studies rather than getting lost in paperwork.
Beyond the diplomatic connection, I was drawn to Taiwan’s global reputation for technology. As someone studying computing, being in a place known for its technical advancement is very inspiring. This inspired my choice of Tamkang University, a place where I felt I could find the academic resources and supportive environment necessary to thrive in the tech world. Here, the cost of living remains affordable and the environment is exceptionally safe, making daily life manageable while I focus on my goals.
I chose Tamkang University because of its solid academic reputation as one of the leading private universities in Taiwan. It is well-respected for its teaching and research, which gave me the confidence that I would receive a high-quality education. As a student focused on technology, the strength of the engineering programs was a deciding factor. Tamkang’s engineering faculty is actively involved in cutting-edge fields like telecommunications, robotics, and automation—areas that are closely connected to the most important technological trends today.
Enrolling in the computer science and information engineering program allowed me to dive deep into the growing world of computing. My goal was to gain skills that would be valuable both internationally and back home in Eswatini. One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is the focus on practical application. Instead of simply memorizing information, we had to actually implement algorithms and make sure our programs worked correctly. The department strongly encourages us to work on practical projects and build personal portfolios. This approach is incredibly useful; it allows us to apply classroom theories to real-world problems and develop the exact skills that employers are looking for. Having a portfolio already in hand makes the prospect of searching for jobs or internships much less stressful, as I have tangible work to show for my efforts.
You might not expect this, but my university is far more international, innovative, and very supportive than many people might assume. Tamkang is a truly international hub, filled with students from diverse cultures and backgrounds. This environment has broadened my perspective and helped me build a global network of friendships that extends far beyond my own borders.
The university is also deeply innovative, encouraging us to experiment with modern tools like artificial intelligence to support our research and problem-solving. Above all, it is supportive. The international affairs office works hard to connect us with technology companies, sharing internship opportunities and helping us gain exposure to the professional world. Professors and staff are approachable, ensuring that international students feel welcome both academically and personally.
The most challenging part of my journey has been learning Mandarin, specifically the pronunciation and tones. Because my first language is so different, it takes a lot of time to train my ear to hear and produce the subtle tonal differences that change a word’s meaning. Remembering Chinese characters is another hurdle that requires consistent, patient practice. However, the Mandarin classes and cultural activities provided by the university offer a supportive space to practice. Interacting with local students in daily life has been the best way to improve gradually.
My experience in Taiwan has significantly influenced my future goals. Being exposed to such a technologically advanced environment has motivated me to continue sharpening my skills in computing and engineering. After graduation, I would definitely consider staying in Taiwan to gain professional experience in its world-class tech sector, particularly in electronics or software development.
Ultimately, I hope the knowledge I gain here will benefit my home country. My experience in Taiwan has strengthened my ambition to pursue a career in technology while continuing to learn, innovate, and contribute to the development of my field. Studying with people from all over the world has shown me just how valuable global networks are in today’s professional landscape, and I am excited to see where this path leads.
