Language Study in Taiwan
Student Reflection by Kelly Yang (C’27 W’27, Mandarin target)
This summer, I had the privilege of attending a 4-week intensive language immersion program at the National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) in Taipei. My daily schedule consisted of 3 hours of small group Mandarin classes, supplemented by an hour of private verbal lessons from Monday to Thursday. Fridays were dedicated to cultural activities, such as making Zongzi, a traditional Chinese glutinous rice dish, and visiting Yilan County for tea leaf picking. These activities, combined with visits to various historical landmarks, offered a holistic approach to language learning, blending linguistic proficiency with cultural understanding.
One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the cultural exchange facilitated through partnerships with local university students. This opportunity allowed me to engage directly with Taiwan natives, offering a deeper and more authentic insight into Taiwanese culture and perspectives. These exchanges were not led by an overseeing instructor, providing opportunities to freely form meaningful connections and discuss Taiwan’s cultural, political, and social dynamics from a local viewpoint.
My class focused on Chinese news, requiring me to read Chinese newspaper articles and engage in discussions about current events. This curriculum was particularly beneficial as I prepare to take business Chinese next semester at Penn, helping me advance beyond colloquial language and build a stronger foundation for professional communication. Additionally, visits to historical museums provided an opportunity to learn more about Taiwan’s rich history and its involvement in Sino-American relations. These museum visits, coupled with my studies, allowed me to contextualize Taiwan’s current geopolitical stance and its significance in global politics.
Afternoons were often free, which provided ample time to explore the island and cater my visits to landmarks that intrigued me the most. From the bustling night markets with their amazing, delicious food to serene temples and natural landscapes, I immersed myself in the local culture, further enriching my experience. The culinary experiences were particularly memorable, as I had the chance to taste authentic Taiwanese dishes, which added another layer to my cultural immersion.
The motivation to choose this program stemmed from my desire to deepen my understanding of Taiwan’s role in the complex geopolitical landscape between China and the United States. My studies of Sino-American relations back on campus took on a new dimension as I experienced firsthand how Taiwan’s unique position influences global politics. The connections I made with local students and my fellow participants further enriched my understanding, as they provided diverse perspectives on Taiwan’s cultural and political significance.
From this experience, I plan to bring back a heightened awareness of the cultural nuances and historical contexts that shape Sino-American relations. The language skills I developed, particularly in business contexts, will directly contribute to my studies and future career aspirations. The Huntsman summer funding made this invaluable experience possible, allowing me to explore Taiwan’s rich culture and complex geopolitical standing firsthand.
