The Global Affairs Office (GAO) has connected with around 120 partner institutions worldwide with good reputations and academic standing. Student Exchange Programmes (SEP) provide a broad range of courses across disciplines, including but not limited to science, social sciences, humanities, sports science, management, and education.
- Enrich students' learning experience
- Cultivate global perspectives
- Enhance language abilities
- Facilitate personal development
- Develop new friendships with people around the world
Students' Sharing
I had an incredible experience during my Student Exchange Program at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU). NTNU, initially a teacher education institution, has evolved into a comprehensive university. My impression of NTNU was positive from the start, with friendly GAO officers and passionate teachers.
Taiwan offered not only delicious food and beautiful sights but also a chance to dive into its culture by learning Taiwanese and Vietnamese concurrently. Finding similarities between these languages was fascinating. I also challenged myself with a Masters and PhD combined course, learning from highly knowledgeable peers.
Attending events and exhibitions, like the Assistive Technology for Life exhibition and exploring 3D printing technology, deepened my academic insights. Interviewing a hearing-impaired student provided a unique perspective on their daily challenges.
Beyond academics, I made friends from diverse backgrounds, explored historic cities, and experienced Taiwan's warmth and hospitality. This exchange opportunity enriched my life and broadened my horizons, leaving me with cherished memories.
During my exchange journey, I forged friendships with people from Korea, Finland, the United States, France, and more. Language barriers didn't hinder our connections; it taught me that communication is about willingness, not fluency. I embraced diverse cultures, even discovering American Shorthand through a classmate.
One amusing cultural encounter involved rice bowl etiquette. In Hong Kong, we hold bowls with our hands, but in Korea, it's associated with begging – a humorous lesson.
Another enriching experience was the Global Fair, where international exchange students showcased their home countries and universities. My roommate and I represented our university, teaching useful Cantonese phrases. We found similarities in Cantonese and Korean pronunciation, making the exchange even more engaging.
This event allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, break stereotypes, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, further cultivating my global perspective.
In conclusion, these experiences profoundly impacted me, enhancing both knowledge and personal development. I encourage everyone to embark on an exchange program for these invaluable experiences.
I studied in the School of Education at Kyushu University. It was an unforgettable experience for me. Besides lectures within the university, the most fascinating aspect of the exchange programme was undoubtedly the field trip to Nagasaki. As we all know, Nagasaki is a city that has endured significant hardships. Walking through the Peace Park, one arrives at the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Viewing the photos in the memorial, I became acutely aware of the value of peace. As the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum states, "Let the atomic bomb that exploded in Nagasaki be the last atomic bomb to explode in the world." In addition to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, we also visited a private museum that documents the lesser-known side of history, a facet often overlooked by mainstream society. This private museum taught me the importance of having a comprehensive and objective understanding of history.
During this exchange programme, I made many international friends. A group of exchange students from National Taiwan Normal University visited Kyushu University in mid-June. They were exceptionally friendly, and we quickly became friends. They introduced me to traditional Taiwanese cuisine, and we had a wonderful time together.
Acknowledgement
Source: Global Affairs Office (GAO). For more information, please visit Explore