A view of the Chung Tai Chan Monastery in Taiwan, taken as students took time to explore their surroundings.
Image Credit: Ann Leger
Students looking for a place to explore diverse ecosystems and landscapes, learn about a unique blend of agricultural practices and immerse themselves in a culture vastly different from the United States’ should consider a comprehensive study abroad program offered in Taiwan each summer through the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR). AGNR students Nayo Shell and Nathan Wong participated in AGNR’s Biodiversity, Agriculture and Culture of Taiwan (BACT) study abroad course last summer and are encouraging other Terps to do the same if possible.
“Taiwan is a wonderful country combining tradition and modernity from numerous people and ethnicities,” Wong, Taiwanese American and junior animal sciences major, said. “Agriculturally, Taiwan has a finely developed rice and tea growing operation...and its agriculture and culture are a mix of Chinese traditions and Japanese influence.”
Shell, a junior environmental science and policy major, echoed Wong’s thoughts, saying, “Taiwan is a country that is growing economically & technologically; definitely westernizing in the aspect of development, yet still eastern in many ways (especially in terms of agricultural production).”
“[While] the Ag sector uses technology for easier and faster production, many farmers seem to still use traditional (intensive labor) forms for Ag production,” Shell continued.
Recognizing the unique perspective that Taiwan has to offer, for the past eight years, AGNR’s International Programs Office has partnered with the National Taiwan University (NTU) to offer eight AGNR students the opportunity to experience Taiwan’s diverse, sub-tropical ecosystem.
“The biggest difference from the U.S. is that you can get to the mountains, the seashore, or city in two hours or less,” Ann Leger, AGNR International Programs Coordinator, said. “If you want to go to the beach or the mountains, you can take a high speed train or drive and be there in a short time, [and] that ability allows you to experience a wide diversity of ecosystems and landscape.”
The collection of program participants is just as diverse as Taiwan’s landscape; students traveling from China, Singapore, Texas, Australia, England, California, Maryland, and a handful of other locations around the globe. Students come together to work on teams, develop a research hypothesis, and maintain a journal or blog about their experiences, while also leaving time to explore their surroundings.
In addition to meeting new people, one of Shell’s fondest memories includes visiting a monastery guided by a Buddhist nun.
“I will admit that they have a very busy schedule planned out for the entire month, but the busy schedule was great since we literally got to travel to just about every part of Taiwan from north to south and east to west,” Shell recalled. “The course is comprehensive as well, so students will learn about a variety of topics within the realm of agriculture, culture and the natural environment of Taiwan.”
“Going back to Taiwan really opened up to me how growing up in America shaped my personality,” Wong explained. “Compared to the local Taiwanese university students, there were definite differences and yet none of that really mattered when it came to making friends, and I think the same applies regardless of heritage, so I encourage students of all backgrounds to join the BACT program.”
This year’s program takes place between June 27th and July 26th and applications are due March 15th. Interested applicants must write a short essay about why they are interested in taking the course, and contact Ann Leger.
“Students can expect to spend between $4,000-5,000, which includes airfare, food, all lodging, and tuition,” Leger explained. “In return, they get four credits, make new friends, and have an experience that they will cherish.”
Scholarships are available, and those interested should contact Tim Lapanne (AGNR) and Conrad Zeutenhorst (UMD Education Abroad).
“Education is about exploring,” Leger said, and exploring is certainly something that both Shell and Wong highly recommend.
“You definitely will not regret it,” Wong said. “Get out of the country for a month alongside other American students and broaden your horizons.”
“Expect to get tan, to be surrounded by great food, and to be taken away by the beauty of the environment,” said Shell.
