Raya Juitong Kuo | UCB Study Abroad

What led you to study abroad? Why did you choose your country/program?

I wanted to experience college life outside of Berkeley, and I absolutely love the city of Taipei. Having been born in Taiwan but moved to America, I wanted to experience current Taiwanese society for myself--as a college student, and not just through the perspective of my family. National Taiwan University is Taiwan's top school, and I remember seeing pictures of the beautiful campus. I had to go!

What was the most interesting cultural experience you had abroad?

Definitely my Field Geology Survey Class! (Full post here: https://ristrettos.wordpress.com/2017/04/24/field-geology-survey-ii/)

It’s a special class with sections taught completely in English. Instead of regular meetings, we have a half-day pre-class introduction to the geology in Taiwan, then a 4-day 3-night trip to southeastern Taiwan to see the rocks firsthand. We climbed coral reefs, excavated (pre-approved) seashells from mountains, and even explored night markets after finishing our homework! I loved spending time with international students and local students alike.

What was the biggest challenge/concern of your study abroad experience? How did you respond?

I thought Taiwanese society would be very restrictive of women and sexist. To be honest, I did come across instances where I faced gender stereotypes and fixed gender norms. Especially as an EECS major, a lot of people felt the need to congratulate me on being a woman in a hard field. However, that wasn't true for everyone. Especially within NTU, the student body is quite progressive and supportive of women. My art history teacher and weight training teacher were both active in promoting female empowerment, and none of my EE classmates dismissed me because of my gender.
In cultural contexts (ie bus rides or chats with random people I meet), I would try to respectfully bring up my differing opinion, and found most people open to conversation.

Describe a typical day for you abroad.

I'd get up early, make breakfast (eggs and fresh vegetables from the market), then bike over to the NTU gym. I'd workout, shower, then bike back to my dorm if I don't have morning classes. I'd cook and prep some meals for the week, do some homework, then head to campus for classes. Afterwards I might eat with friends, browse the multitude of stationary stores/book stores around the area, or chill in my room! I might have some events going on with the NTU Light and Salt Christian Fellowship, or Bread of Life Christian Church student group.

What coursework did you take while abroad? How did courses abroad compare with Berkeley classes?

It's possible to have a full schedule of English-only courses at NTU!

I took Algorithms, Health Behavior, Weight Training, Taiwan Through the Lens of Museums, Aerobic Dance, and Field Geology.
Courses are much more lecture based, fewer discussion time (true for both engineering and humanities), and the coursework is much, MUCH lighter compared to equivalent Berkeley units. I thought all of my classes were pretty fun! We took field trips for both the museums class and field geology.

What was the most memorable/meaningful aspect of your time abroad?

Definitely meeting the local students! Seeing what it's like to grow up in Taiwan, where the pressures and expectations they face are so different. There's a lot of pressure to succeed on tests and examinations for Taiwanese students, but also a very strong sense of family support. I'm so grateful for the friends I made that semester, and am a huge advocate for expanding your network outside of your comfort circle!

What impact did studying abroad have on you personally?

I actually really disliked Berkeley before studying abroad, it almost felt like I was running away. Study abroad did two things for me: 1. It made me appreciate the perks of Berkeley a lot more, and 2. It gave me a greater sense of belonging in the world.
1. Berkeley perks: We truly are at a world class institution here. The caliber of our EE/CS program is so high, and our professors are amazing. We have so many career opportunities and abilities to pursue interests outside of our major, make sure you take advantage of it! Berkeley is a place where you can gain a global perspective, but only if you look for it.
2. I don't fit the mold of a typical American college student, not do I fit the mold of typical Taiwanese student. Really though, nobody 100% matches any stereotype. It's comforting to know that I can feel accepted and have a home in either Taiwan or America, and that I now truly have friends all over the world in SIngapore, Japan, France, etc!

What would you recommend to students considering studying abroad, especially to your country or program?

PLEASE GO. Go see the world, immerse yourself deeply, and be open to adventures. You can survive in Taipei with English, the public transport is efficient and has English signs. Make sure you make an effort to learn Chinese and make friends with local students though--don't just hang out with other English speakers!
For engineers: The EECS department and ESS were super helpful and support in helping me apply courses towards degree credits--technology is a global industry and you will benefit from a global experience.
I love NTU and would be ecstatic to share more or answer questions you have, so feel free to check out my blog or contact me directly!