Chia-Ju Yeh - student at National Chengchi University 2024

Studying at National Chengchi University (NCCU) in Taipei, Taiwan has been a transformative experience. NCCU is nestled in the lush mountains of southern Taipei, providing a serene academic environment with breathtaking natural scenery. The campus is beautiful, with tree-lined paths, historic buildings, and modern study facilities. One of my favorite things about NCCU is the strong sense of community—professors and students alike are warm and supportive, creating an inspiring place to learn and grow.

Living in Taipei has also been unforgettable. Taipei is a city that blends traditional and contemporary aspects of Taiwanese culture. My most memorable experiences include visiting Taipei’s famous night markets, where you can try unique and delicious street food such as bubble tea, stinky tofu, and oyster omelets. I’ve also enjoyed exploring Taipei's cultural sites, like the National Palace Museum, which holds a vast collection of Chinese art and history, and iconic temples like Longshan Temple, which show the deep-rooted spirituality of Taiwanese people.

Aside from its vibrant city life, Taiwan is a paradise for nature lovers. One of the best places to visit is Maokong, conveniently close to NCCU. Known for its tea plantations and scenic mountain views, Maokong is a popular spot for students to relax and unwind. You can take a short bus ride or a cable car up the mountain to enjoy tea-tasting experiences at the traditional teahouses while overlooking the beautiful cityscape below. For NCCU students, it’s a great escape for studying, socializing, or simply enjoying nature.

In just a short distance from the city center, there are other popular hiking trails like Elephant Mountain and Yangmingshan National Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Taipei skyline, especially the landmark Taipei 101 skyscraper. Taiwan’s friendly people, rich culture, and easy access to nature make it an exceptional place to study and live. Studying here has allowed me to immerse myself in Taiwan’s unique mix of ancient traditions and modern lifestyle, and I am truly grateful for this experience.