NSLI-Y Taiwan 2023 – Week 1
Our Week 1 adventure kicked off with a marathon journey from our cozy hotel in Washington D.C. to Shih Chien University in Taipei, Taiwan. Over the course of 28 hours, multiple buses, planes, and three airports later, we arrived around 10:30pm local time on Saturday night in Taipei. There, we were greeted by Mick and Sean, our Overseas Partners and university staff, and a legion of nineteen host families eager the NSLI-Y scholars (all amidst the 100+ heat index and humidity of Taiwan!). On Sunday, students were able to rest up before our first day of classes, which began on Monday, July 3rd.
Every morning, students navigate across the sprawling city of Taipei, which boasts an urban population of approximately 7 million, primarily relying on the city’s efficient and clean public transportation system. Class begins at 8:20 and wraps up at 12:10, just in time for a well-earned lunch. Based on their existing proficiency in Chinese, students were placed into one of three classes: beginners (Pandas), intermediate (Tigers), and advanced (Dragons).
By the end of the first week, our Pandas had graduated from knowing just a few Chinese words to forming complete sentences! The Dragons, on the other hand, were already presenting on a range of topics to their classmates and teacher. The real test of their progress is coming up soon: the first Chinese exams are scheduled for Monday, July 10th!
A standout moment from the week was our Thursday afternoon visit to Longshan Temple, nestled in Taipei’s historic district. We were provided an informative local tour guide, although the intense heat was challenging. Relief came in the form of bīngqílín (ice cream) and a refreshing herbal tea blend. Our first full weekend in Taiwan promises welcome respite from the week’s business; students may opt for further exploration of the city or simply unwind in the cool comfort of their host families’ homes.
Just got to the airport, not a single piece of luggage was lost!
Liz, William, Katie, Harry, Steven, Ronan, and Genevieve on the flight from San Francisco to Taipei!
Dragon Class drawing a scene in Chinese on the board.
Group photo in front of Longshan temple. Our first cultural activity of Week 1.
Avery and Liz eating bīngqílín (ice cream) at the end of our Longshan Temple tour.
Group photo in Mengjia area that is a famous location for Taiwanese influencers to take photos.
Evan and Liz are definitely NOT afraid of heights!