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Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.

Cora's semester abroad in Taiwan

During her master’s degree at the Faculty of Design, Cora spent a semester abroad in Taiwan. Her keen interest in technological development and XR applications, as well as her fascination with the country, led her to the National Taipei University of Technology, Taiwan’s most prestigious university. Thanks to Cora, this university is now officially one of our partner universities. She also received a PROMOS scholarship from Dresden University of Applied Sciences to cover part of her travel expenses. You can find out more about Cora’s exciting time in Taiwan in the interview.

Why did you choose Taiwan?

I was already somewhat familiar with the language, and Taiwan is regarded as a hub of innovation, which fits in very well with my degree programme. I’d also been to Asia quite a few times before, and Taiwan particularly caught my interest. I was really drawn to the combination of technological development, cultural diversity and exciting travel opportunities.

How did you fund your semester abroad?

I received a PROMOS scholarship from my university. I also funded my semester abroad using my own savings and with support from my parents.

Where did you live?

I lived in a shared flat in the city centre of Taipei. The location was really great, though the room was rather small. I had a small kitchenette in my room, whilst the bathroom and laundry facilities were shared with my flatmates.

  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.

How did you go about organising your stay abroad?

I knew early on that I wanted to go to Taiwan. As I specifically wanted to study at a university with a focus on VR, I did some research and came across Taipei Tech. I then asked Paola whether a partnership might be possible. Although no official cooperation came about, I was accepted by Taipei Tech anyway.

A few months before the start of the semester, there was an online information session for exchange students, during which many organisational questions were clarified. A group was also set up where students from previous semesters offered their flats – that’s how I found my shared flat. On the ground, there were also so-called ‘student buddies’, local students who helped with questions and with settling in. Everything else then fell into place quite naturally over time.

What were your highlights in Taiwan?

Taipei as a city was a major highlight for me. You can get from the city centre out into the countryside in about 30 minutes by public transport, or reach the coast in roughly an hour – and all this despite being in a city of over a million people.

Another highlight was a road trip with a friend around the whole island. Plus, the proximity to other Asian countries was ideal for travelling. And last but not least: the cheap and delicious food – in Taiwan, it’s often even cheaper to eat out than to cook for yourself.

  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.

Would you recommend that other students go abroad during their studies?

Yes, definitely. Many students are a bit daunted by the idea beforehand, but once you’re there, you quickly realise that you’re part of a group of people in a similar situation. Even if problems arise, you find solutions together. A stay abroad is a great opportunity for personal development and helps you gain new perspectives.

Do you have any tips for students who are still planning their semester or internship abroad?

Be brave and start researching early. Even if there isn’t an official partnership between universities yet, it’s often still worth applying directly. Many opportunities only open up once you’ve tried them out.

  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.

How would you describe your experience abroad in terms of your future career?

The semester abroad had a huge impact on me, both professionally and personally. I was able to expand my knowledge in the XR field from an international perspective, learn about new technologies and make important contacts. At the same time, I learnt to work more independently, adapt quickly to new environments and communicate across cultures. These experiences give me greater confidence as I start my career and are particularly valuable for international projects and teams.

How would you sum up your semester abroad in three words?

Wonderful – inspiring – unforgettable.

Further impressions

  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.
  • Cora, a student on the Master’s programme in Design, during her semester abroad in Taipei, Taiwan.

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