Written by Wolff Cathrin (Department of Geography)

From September 2018 to mid-January 2019 I’ve been studying at the National Taiwan University in Taipei. My journey in Taiwan was altogether brilliant, I’ve enriched my academic knowledge, I’ve got to know a new culture, I’ve met wonderful people from all over the world and I’ve seen so many beautiful places around Taiwan and Asia.

All of my classes which I chose where very interesting and helpful for my studies. I took very different classes: Vegetation Ecology, Coral Reefs in a changing world, River Ecology, Climate and Ocean and Taiwanese Women and Society. I was also very impressed by the teaching methods and I appreciated that I had to prepare several presentations. Before my semester abroad, I was really intimidated by orals or presentations. But by doing, I’ve learnt how to manage them quiet relaxed and focused. But especially the whole atmosphere at the NTU has affected me in a positive way. The campus is wonderful by its natural parts and by the charming buildings.

From my first day on in Taiwan, I’ve recognized the kindness and the openness of Taiwanese people. I really like how they are truly interested in your life, your studies and your domestic background. My stay in Taiwan has generally taught me a lot of things, I became more independent and open-minded.

During my stay in Taiwan, I’ve visited a lot of places all around the country. What I liked the most was the Taroko Gorge, it is incredibly beautiful. But I also like the nightmarkets, the one in Hualien and in Kenting are my favorites.

All in all, I really enjoyed my time at the NTU and generally in Taiwan. I will come back for sure, to explore more of the beautiful country and its culture.