【Article by College of Commerce】
The National Chengchi College of Commerce (NCCUC) through its Office of International Programs (OIP) recently concluded its Global Immersion in Asia: Where Technology Meets Culture Summer Program, an academic and cultural exchange program initiative held from May 27th to 31st 2024. The intensive five-day program, hosted at the College of Commerce, welcomed a diverse cohort of international students from NCCUC Partner Schools and PIM eager to explore the dynamic intersection of advanced technology and rich cultural heritage that defines Taiwan.

Led by a team of distinguished faculty and industry experts, the program offered participants a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. The curriculum featured a diverse range of courses, delving into key topics such as leadership, investment management with big data, cultural technology, new product design, accounting in Taiwan, and the dynamics of the Taiwanese economy.

"The Global Immersion in Asia program represents our commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and providing students with a unique platform to explore the latest developments in technology and business within the context of a vibrant cultural landscape," said Professor Yenn-Ru Chen, Associate Dean for International Affairs in the College of Commerce.

Following Professor Chen's welcome, Professor Hong Yi Chen, the program coordinator from the Department of Finance, further extended a warm welcome to NCCU and Taiwan. Professor Chen provided a detailed overview of the program's intensive schedule, which included morning and afternoon classes, a city tour showcasing Taiwan's cultural landmarks, a company visit to a beauty and health sustainable products company, and opportunities to learn from innovative Taiwanese entrepreneurs.

The opening ceremony also featured presentations from NCCUC's International Program Ambassadors (IPAs), about Taiwan and NCCUC. This initial event set the tone for a week of collaborative learning and cultural exchange.

Throughout the program, students engaged in a variety of interactive and hands-on learning activities. They participated in lively discussions, tackled challenging case studies, and collaborated on group projects, fostering a spirit of teamwork and knowledge sharing. The program also included a visit to O'right Inc., a sustainable beauty and health product manufacturer, where students gained insights into the company's innovative practices and commitment to environmental responsibility.

A highlight of the program was a city tour that allowed students to immerse themselves in Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. They explored iconic landmarks such as the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, Ximending, Taipei 101 Observatory, and experienced the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional night market.

The academic component of the program was equally enriching. Students gained a deep understanding of leadership principles through a team-building exercise where they collaborated to construct a "spaghetti tower." They delved into the world of investment management, learning how to harness the power of big data and Python programming language for data analysis and portfolio optimization. In the realm of business administration, they explored the creative process behind new product design and discussed the factors that have contributed to Apple's remarkable success.

The program also provided students with valuable insights into the unique aspects of accounting in Taiwan, covering both managerial and financial accounting practices as well as the intricacies of the tax system. Additionally, a dedicated seminar on the dynamics of the Taiwanese economy offered a comprehensive overview of the country's economic history, current challenges, and future prospects in an increasingly globalized world.

The culmination of the program was a final project presentation, where students showcased their newly acquired knowledge and skills by presenting actionable plans based on real-world case study. This capstone experience allowed them to integrate the diverse concepts and perspectives they had learned throughout the program and demonstrate their ability to apply them to practical business challenges.

As the program concluded, participants were presented with certificates of completion, recognizing their successful immersion in the rich tapestry of Taiwan's technological advancements and cultural traditions. The Global Immersion in Asia: Where Technology Meets Culture Summer Program not only equipped students with valuable knowledge and skills but also fostered lasting friendships and cross-cultural connections, making it a truly transformative experience.

Looking ahead, National Chengchi University plans to continue offering the Global Immersion in Asia program, expanding its reach to students from around the world who seek a unique and enriching educational experience in the heart of Asia.

About the “Global Immersion in Asia” Summer Program
Asia is rapidly becoming a major player in the global economy, making it crucial for future business leaders to understand its unique landscape. The "Global Immersion in Asia" program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate this dynamic region, focusing on the use of technology and innovation to drive corporate success and sustainability.

About National Chengchi College of Commerce (NCCUC)
The National Chengchi College of Commerce is a leading institution for business education in Taiwan. With a strong focus on international collaboration and research, NCCUC is committed to preparing students for successful careers in the global economy.