My Semester in Taipei with CET Taiwan

CET Taiwan has been one of the most valuable experiences of my undergraduate studies. The program combines intensive language learning with real-world professional opportunities, creating an environment where growth happens both inside and outside the classroom. The Mandarin course was rigorous but highly rewarding. With small class sizes, teachers pushed us to improve while still offering individual support. The curriculum emphasized speaking and practical use, which made it easy to apply what I learned in daily life. Using Mandarin with local roommates and classmates became a natural extension of class, and I noticed steady progress in both confidence and fluency.

The internship component added another important dimension to my time in Taipei. I worked with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan, where my responsibilities included event planning, client correspondence, and social media management. The Chamber partners closely with the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei, Canada’s de facto diplomatic presence in Taiwan. This partnership exposed me to both business and diplomatic communities, giving me a deeper understanding of how commerce and diplomacy intersect. It also expanded my professional network and gave me firsthand professional experience in an international setting.

One of the highlights of CET Taiwan was the community. Living with local roommates gave me a direct window into Taiwanese life, from language practice to everyday routines. My classmates, who came from different universities and four different countries between us, added to the sense of support and shared experience. Together, we created an environment where we learned as much from each other as from the program itself.

Overall, CET Taiwan offered the perfect balance of academic challenge, professional growth, and community. I left the program with stronger Mandarin skills, meaningful work experience, and friendships that will last well beyond my time in Taipei.