Study Abroad Programs in Hsinchu, Taiwan

Although my study abroad experience was virtual, American Councils adjusted its online language program to create a great and effective language learning experience. I was hesitant at first because I didn't know how they could create an "intensive language learning" experience with students all around the country, but through daily group meetings, one-on-one instruction, challenging homework assignments and weekly meetings with our language learning partners, I felt that my Chinese speaking skills have improved immensely. I communicated in Chinese everyday within the 8 weeks of the program and I felt that I’ve gained a lot of communication skills by speaking to my instructors, classmates and language partner throughout TISLP. Due to COVID-19 I was unable to travel to Taiwan for the program; however, I still felt like I witnessed some of Taiwanese culture and language through my language learning partner. I also got to see various night markets and national parks through my language partner as she showed me around Taiwan on LINE, a popular Taiwan communication app. TISLP, overall, has been a great experience.

I had my doubts that an 8-week online program would enable me to advance an entire year in my language studies, but it did!  I worked hard, though I still had time to relax and pursue some other interests over the summer.  The program was extremely well organized and implemented, and our classes were small—only 5 students, plus we had one-on-one sessions with a teacher daily.  The teachers and my language partner worked as hard as I did to help me improve.  Even though I wasn’t able to travel to Taiwan, my language partner showed me around Taiwan via video chat.  Being stuck at home was not how I anticipated spending the summer, so the chance to virtually experience some aspects of life in Taiwan made a huge difference.