Interview-University of New England

Interview University of New England

Chou-Hsien, from Taiwan is a senior at the University of New England in Maine.

Why did you decide to study in the U.S.A.?

One reason was the quality of education and the desire to have an American degree. Another reason is because I wanted to learn about the American health care system and to experience life in a different culture.

How did you choose your university?

I selected the University of New England because it has a very good reputation in the health sciences and offered me an opportunity to complete an Intensive English Language Program prior to enrollment in my academic program. I also liked the fact that Maine provided me the chance to experience all the different seasons in a real American environment.

What do you like best?

There are not a lot of students from my home country and I am forced to learn English very quickly. The people at the university are also very nice and helpful. I also like the school’s location near the ocean and the city of Portland, Maine.

What do you miss most?

I really miss the food and entertainment from Taiwan. I also miss my family and friends very much, but I try to keep in touch with them as much as possible.

What was your biggest surprise?

I was very surprised about the custom of tipping for service and that you have to pay taxes on purchases. I also found that the teaching style is very different in America compared to Taiwan.

...your biggest disappointment?

Many things in America are more expensive than in Taiwan. So, you have to be very careful about your spending and plan very carefully.

How have you handled adjusting to a different educational system?

I have tried to think in the American way and to look at situations as if I was American.

What are your activities?

When I have the chance, I can go to restaurants and movies. I also had the opportunity to travel to Boston and to New York City. This winter I had the chance to learn how to snow ski and I loved it!

How easy or difficult is making friends?

I think it is difficult to make real friends at first. You have to adjust to a different culture and be very brave to meet new people. However, I have found many nice people and have developed good friendships over time.

How relevant is your U.S. education to your personal goals and to the needs of your country?

I will become a Physical Therapist and hope to open my own practice someday. I think that the United States provides the best quality education for health care. Health care is one of the critical needs of any country and I am glad to be a part of its future.

What is your advice to other students?

My best advice is to have an open mind and sense of adventure. You will find many new things that will challenge your way of thinking.

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