【Article by College of Commerce】
The Office of International Programs (OIP) welcomed exchange students to the 2024 Spring Exchange Students' Orientation and Culture Tour. Held at the Yuanta Lecture Hall in the Commerce Building on Saturday, February 17th, 2024, this event served as a gateway for students to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Taiwanese culture while getting acquainted with the academic landscape of National Chengchi University (NCCU).

The day commenced with an interactive ice-breaking session facilitated by International Programs Ambassadors (IPAs), Vanessa Huang 黃以晴 and William Zhong 鍾明軒, setting the tone for a day filled with camaraderie and cultural exploration. Through engaging activities and team-building exercises, students had the opportunity to forge connections with their peers from diverse backgrounds. Laughter and excitement filled the room as students participated in guessing games and teamwork challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and community among the attendees.

Following the ice-breaking session, students were treated to an insightful presentation titled "Taiwan Unboxed - Surprises Around Every Corner," led by Alice Kao高婷薇 and William Zhong鍾明軒, International Program Ambassadors. The presentation offered a fascinating glimpse into the multifaceted aspects of Taiwanese culture, from its picturesque landscapes and efficient transportation network to its mouthwatering cuisine and vibrant festivals. Emphasizing Taiwan's commitment to safety, happiness, and its robust health insurance system, the session concluded with quizzes designed to test students' knowledge and ignite their curiosity to explore Taiwan's wonders further.

After a brief interlude for refreshments, students delved into a virtual treasure hunt guided by Janice Chiang姜馨 and Lynn Cheng鄭茜齡. Titled "A Treasure Hunt in NCCU," this presentation took students on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of NCCU, highlighting its rich history, academic excellence, and abundant opportunities for student engagement. Through interactive sessions, students gained insights into NCCU College of Commerce (NCCUC) as a treasure trove of resources, global connections, and vibrant student life.

Vanessa Huang's黃以晴 "Survival Guide for NCCUC Exchange Students" presentation provided invaluable insights to ensure a fulfilling and rewarding experience for all students. Covering essential topics such as course registration procedures, campus facilities, and practical tips for life in Taiwan, the presentation aimed to equip students with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate their academic journey smoothly.

The orientation session culminated with a Q&A session led by Cherry Huang黃千容, the Senior Manager of IEP. Cherry covered topics from registration procedures to campus life and safety measures. She also took the opportunity to introduce the IEP Team to the students, emphasizing their roles in supporting students throughout their exchange journey. Cherry's insightful guidance and emphasis on prioritizing well-being resonated with students, empowering them to embrace the cultural richness of Taiwan while navigating their academic pursuits effectively.

Following the orientation session, students embarked on a guided campus tour led by the International Programs Ambassadors (IPAs). As they explored the campus of NCCU, students were introduced to various academic buildings, libraries, and recreational facilities, gaining a deeper understanding of the university's vibrant academic community.

The cultural journey continued with an immersive trip to Yilan, offering students a firsthand experience of Taiwan's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty on the North East Coast of Taiwan. The adventure began with a sumptuous lunch at the Dawen Fish Farm Restaurant, where students indulged in an array of Taiwanese delicacies while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Yoonmimi Aung from Thammasat University Business School (Thailand) described the lunch at the Dawen Fish Farm Restaurant as an amazing experience, particularly highlighting the diverse array of options available. This was due to the unique flavors, freshness of the food and the opportunity to taste a diverse selection of dishes, which contributed to a memorable lunch experience.

Following lunch, students embarked on a tour of the fish farm which included a boat tour, where they had the opportunity to feed the fishes, they had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities such as fishing, shrimp catching, and even crafting their own fish balls under the guidance of experienced staff. Larisa Rudman, student from the University of Ljubljana School of Economics and Business (Slovenia), fondly recalls the boat tour and fishing as the most memorable and enjoyable highlights of the cultural excursion, as it provided her with a sense of adventure and fun, creating lasting memories of her cultural experience in Taiwan.

At Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park, the highlight of the cultural tour awaited, promising a blend of relaxation and novelty. Amidst the serene surroundings, students experienced the unique sensation of a fish pedicure, a practice where tiny fish gently nibble away dead skin cells from the feet, leaving them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. As students gathered around the tranquil footbath ponds, a mix of emotions filled the air. Some couldn't contain their laughter at the tickling sensation, while others hesitated, feeling shy about dipping their feet into the unknown. Yet, amidst the nervous giggles and hesitant smiles, there were those who displayed bravery, willingly enduring the unique sensation as the fish worked their magic.

As night fell, students ventured into the bustling Luodong Night Market, one of Taiwan's largest and most vibrant night markets. Here, they immersed themselves in the lively atmosphere, sampling an array of street food delicacies, browsing through stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs, and experiencing the vibrant energy of Taiwanese street culture. Emelie Åström, student from Hanken School of Economics (Finland), shared her positive experience at the night market. She appreciated the wide variety of offerings available and particularly enjoyed indulging in fried eggs and watermelon juice. Emelie also admired the vibrant atmosphere of the night market, characterized by delightful food aromas and the joyful demeanor of fellow visitors.

Lillian Lin, a local student at the Department of Accounting student and International Program Ambassador, provided insight into the day's activities. She described the experience as interactive and fulfilling, relishing the opportunity to educate international exchange students about Taiwan and answer their inquiries. Lillian also found enjoyment in exploring the night market with the students, showcasing renowned Taiwanese cuisine, and encouraging them to sample a diverse array of local delicacies.

Additionally, Alice Kao高婷薇, an International Programs Ambassador, shared insights on the effectiveness of the orientation session and cultural tour. According to Alice, the orientation serves as an effective means for exchange students to familiarize themselves with NCCUC's administration and campus environment, offering them the opportunity for direct interaction and clarification of queries. Regarding the cultural tour, she emphasized the significance of the cultural tour as a means for exchange students to gain exposure to local culture alongside their Taiwanese peers, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

The 2024 Spring Exchange Students' Orientation and Culture Tour provided students with a gateway to explore the rich tapestry of Taiwanese culture while acquainting themselves with the academic landscape of NCCU. Through engaging presentations, interactive activities, and immersive cultural experiences, students gained invaluable insights and forged meaningful connections, laying the foundation for a rewarding exchange experience in Taiwan.