【Article by Office of International Cooperation】
The Office of International Cooperation (OIC) held its international student check-in and orientation from September 2 to 3, welcoming over 300 exchange students and more than 160 degree-seeking international students from over 50 countries worldwide. New students gathered at NCCU to complete registration procedures and get acquainted with the campus environment, kicking off the new academic year.
The "One-Stop Check-In" service launched on the afternoon of September 2, held for the first time in the newly completed College of Law building. Continuing a streamlined tradition established in 2016, the service allowed freshmen to complete all registration formalities in a single location. After registering, students enjoyed complimentary frozen yogurt provided by Right Kitchen, embarking on their campus life in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Nicholas Craig Baer, a new American student in the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS), shared that he had lived in Taiwan for nine months three years ago, which inspired his love for the island and his decision to return for a master's degree. Back in Taiwan once again, he expressed great anticipation for his upcoming academic journey. Minori Kawa KAI from Japan noted that NCCU's safe campus environment, along with its diverse and inclusive academic and cultural atmosphere, served as the primary reasons for his return. Motimifagha Kei from Nigeria, who completed her master's degree at NCCU and decided to stay to pursue her doctorate, also shared her deep appreciation for NCCU's campus environment and academic atmosphere.
On September 3, the orientation took place at the Wang Wen-Chieh Lecture Hall on the fourth floor of the College of Law, divided into separate morning and afternoon sessions for degree-seeking and exchange students. Despite the rainy weather, international students turned out in high numbers, filling the hall to capacity.
In his welcoming address, NCCU President Tsai-Yen Li encouraged international students to boldly explore NCCU and Taiwan, build new friendships, and immerse themselves in local culture. He reassured students that when facing foreign challenges, they should not fear making mistakes, as NCCU and the OIC will always serve as their most reliable support system.
Vice President Shu-Heng Chen referenced AI technology to emphasize that digital tools can never replace authentic personal travel and human connections. He encouraged students to move beyond the "physical exchange"—arriving in Taiwan—to achieve a "psychological exchange" by experiencing local culture firsthand to broaden their mindsets and global perspectives.
To help international freshmen adapt smoothly to daily life, the orientation provided accessible presentations on essential topics such as Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) applications and National Health Insurance (NHI). The event also featured guest speakers, including psychologists from the Physical and Mental Health Center, Associate Professor Mei-Chuan Wei, and foreign affairs officers from the Wenshan First Police Precinct of the Taipei City Police Department, who delivered briefings on mental well-being, gender equity, and fraud prevention. Additionally, student organizations including the International Association (IA), the Student Association, and the Freshman College presented a wide range of campus activities, encouraging incoming students to get involved.
Through robust support services and dedicated guidance mechanisms, NCCU remains committed to helping students from around the world settle in, foster cross-cultural exchanges, and embark on a fulfilling academic journey in Taiwan.