A Semester Abroad in Taiwan: Here's Vanessa's Take on It

A semester abroad changes your perspective on many things - and that’s exactly what Vanessa, a student in the Bachelor’s degree program in Marketing & Communication Management at Kufstein University of Applied Sciences in Tyrol, experienced. For her semester abroad, she chose National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan. Today, she looks back on an intense period that shaped her both professionally and personally.

NEW EXPERIENCES, NEW PERSPECTIVES

For Vanessa, attending a degree program abroad meant completely reimagining her daily routine. This was evident even in small things - such as whether to grab a quick breakfast at 7-Eleven in the morning or opt for traditional Taiwanese foods like baked sweet potatoes. It was precisely these seemingly mundane decisions that gave her the feeling that she had truly arrived in a different culture.

During her degree program, she also became familiar with new approaches: independent work, open discussions, and international group projects shaped her daily routine. She was able to examine and contextualize the material from her courses from various perspectives.

In addition to her degree program, she used her free time to explore Taiwan - from temples and islands to the famous night markets. Along the way, she met people from all over the world. A particularly memorable moment for her was when she was able to handle an everyday situation entirely in Mandarin for the first time. This achievement showed her just how much one grows, step by step, while living abroad.

GOAL-DRIVEN CHALLENGES

At the same time, the semester abroad was also a challenge. Getting started there - both in terms of logistics and language - required patience. Many procedures were unfamiliar, and especially at the beginning, some things felt complicated. Over time, however, a routine set in, and interacting with other international students helped me find my footing more quickly.

Language also played a central role. For Vanessa, learning Mandarin meant adapting to a completely new structure. Progress often came in small steps, but that made it all the more motivating. Especially outside the major cities, it became clear just how helpful even basic language skills are in everyday life.

Differences were also evident in social interactions. Quiet bus rides, where no one used their phones or spoke loudly, and the relaxed attitude toward personal belongings in public spaces were initially unfamiliar to them. At the same time, these experiences opened up new perspectives on their own daily lives.

The semester was also a big adjustment in terms of food. New flavors and textures called for an open mind - and at the same time made me realize just how much I sometimes miss the simple things from home.

A MOVEMENT THAT PAYS OFF

Looking back, Vanessa draws a clear conclusion: A semester abroad is challenging, but it also opens up tremendous opportunities. Openness, patience, and a willingness to embrace new experiences are crucial. For her, one thing is certain: the experiences she gained in Taiwan will stay with her long after she finishes her degree program.

Links:

• Marketing & Communication Management | pt
• Partner Universities | Website

This article was written by students in the part-time Bachelor’s degree program in Marketing & Communication Management as part of their practical project.