- Name
- Sara
- Study Programme
- WPS
- Semester
- 3rd Semester
- Host Institution
- National Chengchi University (opens in a new window)
- Location
- Taipei, Taiwan
- Period
- September to December 2025
Funding
Self-funded
What was your main motivation to go abroad?
My main motivation was the desire not just to get to know a new culture as a tourist, but to truly experience it. I wanted to understand what everyday life looks like in another country and what it feels like to live in a completely different environment for several months. Taiwan appealed to me in particular because it is a country that many people don’t really have on their radar. At the same time, it offers an incredible amount of diversity—from modern cities and impressive mountains to beautiful beaches. I also wanted to improve my English, build international friendships, and grow on a personal level.
A semester abroad is so much more than just studying. You get to experience new cultures, build friendships with people from all over the world, collect unforgettable memories, and grow tremendously on a personal level.
What were your biggest concerns?
Before leaving, I was mainly concerned about the language barrier and about finding my way in such a distant country. However, these worries quickly disappeared because the people there were incredibly helpful and open. After a short time, Taiwan already felt like a second home.
Would you recommend a stay abroad? Why?
Absolutely! A semester abroad is so much more than just studying. You get to experience new cultures, build friendships with people from all over the world, collect unforgettable memories, and grow tremendously on a personal level. For me, it was not only one of the best decisions of my studies, but one of the best decisions of my life.
Fun Fact
One of my most exciting experiences was basketball training. Since both of my coaches spoke very little English, all training sessions were conducted entirely in Mandarin. At first, my teammates translated for me, but over time I learned more and more words. By the end of my semester abroad, I was able to understand my coaches for the most part. Not because I knew every single word, but because I had learned many key terms, and the rest became clear through context as well as gestures and facial expressions. This was especially important, as communication during games also took place exclusively in Mandarin. Looking back, it was probably one of the most effective language courses I could have wished for.
What did you take away from your time abroad?
I have become more independent, open-minded, and significantly more confident. Above all, I learned to embrace new situations and better understand people from different cultures. I am taking so much with me from my semester abroad: unforgettable memories, valuable experiences, international friendships, and many moments that will stay with me for a lifetime.
Were your expectations met?
Yes, and even exceeded them. I had hoped to travel a lot, meet new people, and experience a different culture. Looking back, I took all of that and much more with me. In particular, the friendships, the travels, and the opportunity to play college basketball made my semester abroad truly unforgettable.
Is there anything you would like to highlight about your experience abroad?
I would especially like to emphasise that you do not have to give up your hobbies during a semester abroad. I was able to become part of the college basketball team, which allowed me to experience a side of Taiwan that I would probably never have encountered as a regular exchange student. The sport not only helped me grow personally, but also enabled me to immerse myself more deeply in the language, culture, and everyday life there.
More impressions and information about Sara's experience abroad can be found on Instagram (opens in a new window).
Impressions of Taiwan
