Exchange Program at National Taiwan University Interesting and Fun Language Opportunity Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

NTU is very lecture based,and often has classes with a large number of students (50-200) There are some classes that are smaller groups and language classes are never over several students in size. The workload is very manageable as long as you take a reasonable amount of credits. taking over 20 credits is allowed but from my observation can be quite time consuming and stressful during finals/final paper week. I recommend frequent communication with the teacher's aids and also the teacher should you feel lost or need/want any help. Taiwanese are very helpful and friendly but because of the large number of people you MUST go to them if you want extra help.

On-site administration of your program

The Office of International Affairs on campus was very helpful and prompt.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I rented housing off campus and had an old friend as a roommate. Taipei is quite safe except for some dangerous traffic and frequent bike theft. Muggings are very rare. It is safe to be alone on the street 24/7 in most neighborhoods. There are people on the street until very late. I enjoyed walking home from late night activities (after the subway system was closed for the night) and riding bike on the numerous scenic bike paths nearby. Taxi's are around at all hours and are quite cheap (about 6 USD for an average ride)

Taipei especially around NTU campus is a wonderful place to go out to eat. There are many cheap restaurants all in close proximity and high density. It is a national past time to go out for late night snacks at 9-12 at night. There are a good number of vegetarian restaurants.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was signed up with national health insurance. I had no trouble with health problems and my regular medicine for my asthma was very affordable.

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

Many people (especially teachers) speak English, and there is a large student body of International/exchange students. Many Taiwanese students also speak at least basic English as English is taught in High school and is a required course in many majors at the University level. Academic issues and technical help is all able to be discussed in English. The Office of International Affairs has been exceptionally good in helping me with all of my issues. Many people want to do language exchange and many people are willing to teach you Chinese. Look on any bulletin board and you will find requests for language exchange or English conversation practice. Even if you don't speak hardly any Chinese you can still interact through activities or translators. Taiwanese students are very friendly. I had very little trouble as I can speak proficient conversational Chinese and can take care of all my errands in Chinese as well. I enjoyed stretching my proficiency through language class and classes just taught in Chinese.

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• Apartment

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• International Students