Written by Chin May Ngue (Dept. of Chemistry)

Taiwan has much to offer to foreigners. In fact, this is a very dynamic place. Nature lovers will fall in love with the beautiful landscape on this Formosa Island. Food lovers will realize that the area is a treasure for them (if you have the guts to try stinky tofu!).  Convenience stores are ubiquitous.  Above all, what makes Taiwan so unique is the friendliness and impeccable manner displayed by the Taiwanese people with their willingness to assist a foreigner like myself. Another thing that I would like to emphasize is if you master Chinese language, people will be impressed and flattered by you. I strongly encouraged foreigners who wish to live here to pick up Chinese, as the saying goes, “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”.

If you are keen learners, there are many available resources ready to equip you. The place that I lingered the most is the library. As an avid reader, NTU library satisfied my need of reading more books! Also, it was the books which I read that prepared me to face the challenges in research. In addition, immense efforts have been made to promote the utility of the library. Let us make the most of it as students.

Research in Taiwan is preparing you to connect with the world. Professors here are apt to talk didactically and sparkle with scintillation. Here, they have excellent facilities to offer for you. Efforts of inviting prominent researchers in the relevant field allow exchange of ideas and future collaboration.

During my stay here, I had the opportunity to attend talks by Nobel Laureates. Their inspirational talks enable students to emulate the hardship of successful persons. Living and studying in Taiwan can go on concomitantly!