Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A supported and activity-filled semester in Taiwan. July 25, 2026

By (Wellesley College) - abroad from 02/27/2026 to 05/23/2026 with

CET Taiwan

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained a lot of confidence in my language skills, especially regarding not being afraid to make mistakes. I also gained insight into Taiwanese history and culture, and met new friends! It was definitely a worthwhile experience.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes were all informative, but had varying levels of intensity and organization, largely depending on the teacher. I was also slightly disappointed by the lack of STEM courses offered, but I understand that humanities courses make more sense when trying to tie the course material into learning about Taiwan.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The admin were incredibly friendly and accommodating, they really went out of their way to make sure that you felt supported and welcomed in Taiwan. The activities they run are all very very fun, and I highly recommend anyone who is going on this program to do as many of them as possible!

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

Night markets are definitely the highlight of the Taiwanese food scene, but I had plenty of other cheap and delicious meals while I was there!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Living with local roommates definitely helped me feel more involved with the local culture, but since my classes were all with other American students, I didn't feel like it was a fully immersive experience (this is not necessarily a negative, and I really enjoyed having both sides).

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

The city is very safe as long as you watch out for all the scooters!

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

I would choose the same program, but I would likely make different choices regarding my courses and internship placement. I think the flexible track with the internship ended up taking up more time than I would like, so I didn't have as much time to explore the local culture, travel, and participate in activities.

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $80

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Chinese 301
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Talk to your local roommates and join student orgs at NTU! They are all very welcoming and great ways to practice the language.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Activities
  • Living with local roommates
* What could be improved?
  • Flexible track
  • Check-ins about teachers' performance
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't overload on courses if you are taking the flexible track (maybe don't take the internship course)! Try to participate in as many activities as possible and take advantage of the cultural reimbursements.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!