Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The education system in Taiwan/Asia is very different from America and hard to adapt to if you're used to discussion-based classes and professors who help you comprehend the info/actually teach. Professors here, instead, just hand you information...basically like "here, take it" and don't really explain the content. Of course, also, math and some business classes--particularly accounting and finance--are bound to be harder in Asia. I dropped a finance course I was enrolled in mid-semester because of this reason. It seemed like most of the people in my class just memorized the content and don't really try to understand it.

On-site administration of your program

the study abroad counselor at SUNY was very helpful and provided thorough answers when I had issues.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The dorms were relatively new and catered to generally international students or wealthier local students. They were off-campus, but a short 10 minute talk to campus. Very convenient location near the main big road, Roosevelt Road. However, the dorm had horrible insulation and did not have a heater. The walls were also very thin, you can hear your neighbor's phone conversation completely. <br /><br /> The neighborhood is very safe. I felt alright walking alone at night, especially since there were always things open late. I lived alone in a single room, which I had preferred. The dorm provided a shoerack, desk, bookcase, and bed. I had to purchase my own shower curtain, trashcan, cleaning supplies. I had brought my own pillow and sheets. Thankfully, I have relatives nearby, so they brought me a mattress pad among other room necessities.

Taiwan is food heaven! The food in Taiwan is just amazing... There is a range of options for food: street food, restaurants, fine dining, convenience stores, etc. The food choices are endless.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My program did not organize many events for us. I traveled with other exchange students, organized by ourselves.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Taiwan is generally a safe place. Of course, there are a few areas in Taipei where you shouldn't be walking alone as a female foreigner, but I felt safe most of the time.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I certainly improved my Chinese language skills. I always had issues with pronunciation, even though it is my first language. I spoke Chinese on a daily basis with my Taiwanese friends and my relatives. That is mostly how I improved Chinese. I also implemented Chinese input on my laptop and typed in Chinese on Facebook and Skype with friends.

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• Dorm

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• N/A

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• Local Students