University of Mississippi
International Studies and Chinese – Graduation May 2024
Where did you study abroad?
Taiwan
Why is / was studying abroad important to your undergraduate experience?
My study abroad experience helped me to improve my Mandarin language skills, meet new people, make new friends, and learn about Taiwan’s history and culture. The new experiences and skills I have gained have given me a clearer vision of some of my future goals. After returning home to Mississippi, my new language skills have allowed me to serve as an interpreter for Chinese families at Oxford Elementary Schools, besides helping Chinese Elementary students improve their English. Although I felt nervous before interpreting, the parents’ gratitude made me happy. I was making a difference. Studying abroad as an undergraduate allowed me to be better prepared for life after graduation.
How did you select your study abroad program?
I chose CET Taiwan because, besides its intensive language program offered at National Taiwan University, they offered an internship elective option. Since I had never had an internship before, learning more about Taiwan’s workplace environment would be great.
How did you grow during your study abroad experience?
Living abroad is a challenging experience, with many cultural differences and obstacles. From fear of judgment to being afraid of making mistakes, I was scared to use my Chinese. However, seeing how far I have come after facing and overcoming those challenges is incredibly rewarding—feeling stronger and invisible.
What was your favorite excursion as part of your study abroad experience?
I want to mention three different experiences:
At the end of the Fall semester, l traveled East and southeast of Taiwan, known for its beautiful beaches and mountains. Although I traveled solo, funny enough, I was never alone.
During my one-week trip, I met new friends. I saw beautiful landscapes and experienced the friendliness of Taiwanese locals, as they helped me find my way around and advised me when traveling alone.Besides my solo traveling, I must also mention traveling with Lynn and then with Jane. Lynn and Jane were my Taiwanese language partners, with whom I became close friends with both of them. They both invited me to their hometowns in Taichung, and I was so happy to meet their families and travel with them. Finally, Going to Japan! Because of its relatively close distance, I was able to visit Japan. In Japan, I could meet with my Japanese friends whom I met at my home university the year before studying abroad.
What advice would you offer other AFF scholars who are interested in studying abroad?
As a first-generation and low-income student, I thought I could not afford to study abroad in college. However, I learned that study abroad is affordable, and there are multiple scholarship resources available that can help us finance our study abroad experience. Studying abroad allows for cultural exchange and self-growth; it is an experience that I 100% recommend. You will not regret it. I promise.