It is the English Taught Program (ETP) Alumni Sharing Event on Friday, October 27th that brings NCCUC ETP alumni and students together, providing current students a platform to expand their networks. The sharing this semester took place at Yi Xian Building (逸仙樓), featuring alumni Eric Chen (陳世恒) from Department of Risk Management and Insurance and Randy Lin (林子琛) from Department of Business Administration. They shared insights into the benefits they derived from the ETP program and discussed their career path after graduation. Through their valuable sharing, participants not only gained a deeper appreciation for the meticulous planning of the ETP program, but also draw valuable lessons from their experiences.

Eric shared that the interdisciplinary and immersive learning experiences provided by ETP instilled him the courage to speak, which he found to be more important than merely mastering impeccable grammar. Additionally, he got the opportunity to work as a team with students from various Departments, developing networking connections. As a Data Analyst in Cathy United Bank, Eric described his current job to be more than just about coding, but the ability of storytelling and teamworking. He also reminded the participants to treat everyone nicely. “You never know when your paths may cross again in the future.” He illustrated the awkward reunion with his not-so-closed buddy back in NCCU during exchange program in Spain as an example. “We unexpectedly ran into each other almost every day in the cafeteria.”

During his ETP experience sharing, Randy highlighted the invaluable benefits of ETP such as debate and CV writing classes, which are definitely helpful in the long run. ETP not only provides more straightforward terminology compared to translated equivalents but also fosters students’ ability to think in English. Drawing from his job-hopping experiences from an intern to Google Senior Account Manager, Randy emphasized the significance of networking, as these connections can prove pivotal when confronting career challenges or even lead to ideal job opportunities. Moreover, he also encouraged fellow students to capture every opportunity that could challenge themselves and accumulate various experiences until they reach the goal.

Curiosity about the daily life of an account manager at Google brought Erin Chen (陳奕伶), senior student from Department of Business Administration, to the sharing event. Erin understood what Randy had gained from the experiences at those previous international companies and what ultimately led him to choose Google. She was not only intrigued by the compelling stories behind the alumni but also appreciated their authenticity in sharing both their career and personal journeys. Undoubtedly, she had took valuable lessons from them.

Through the sharing event, Jason Chiu (邱云谷) from Department of Management Information Systems had the opportunity to connect with industry insiders in person. Their insights and experience sharing provided him with a much clearer understanding of what to prepare for and expect from both internships and exchange programs. As a result, he realized the preparation required and the optimal time management necessary to streamline the exchange program application process. “I hadn't thought about these aspects in such detail before, but the alumni's thorough sharing has been incredibly enlightening." Jason expressed.

Following his sharing on his “bumpy” career path and how he stood up again and again with current ETP students, Eric draw inspiration from Steve Jobs by quoting him, emphasizing that “eventually, all the dots will connect”. “We might not always see the immediate value in what we are doing now,’ he noted, “but down the road, you will recognize how a particular activity, person, or even skill becomes invaluable.”

On October 23, 2023, the highly anticipated PRE-Partnership in International Management Conference (PRE-PIM Conference) took place at the College of Commerce at National Chengchi University (NCCUC), a leading business school in Taiwan. The event offered plenty of networking opportunities for the participants before the 2023 PIM Conference. Furthermore, the participants, who come from prestigious business institutions around the world gained insights into NCCUC and deepened their understanding of Taiwan, the island nation that has played a significant role in the high-tech industry in recent years.

The Conference commenced with a warm welcome from Professor Yenn-Ru Chen, the Associate Dean for International Affairs of the School. She emphasized NCCUC's pursuit of global engagements since its affiliation with PIM in 2018. The School cherishes its partnership with globally renowned business schools for greatly expanding international learning opportunities for its students. Following Professor Chen’s welcome remark, the International Programs Ambassadors (IPAs) gave a comprehensive and engaging introduction to both Taiwan and NCCUC. Through their presentations, they unveiled Taiwan's unique attributes, from its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and delectable cuisine to its vibrant festivals, world-class industries, and everyday life of students.

The event also featured a discussion on “Innovations and Challenges in Business Education,” presented by Professor Kwei Tang(唐揆), Dean’s Fellow and the Allison and Nancy Schleicher Chair of Management Emeritus at Purdue University. He offered his observations on the evolving business landscape, using the strategic initiatives of Purdue University as an example. He used the undergraduate major in integrating business and engineering as an example to show the effort of the business school to work closely with Purdue’s prestigious engineering school. During his presentation, Tang also shared his findings in analyzing the innovation cases reported by some member schools of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Notably, Tang underscored that updating academic curricula often lags behind in most institutions and used an example to demonstrate the difficulties of proposing new courses in practice. He indicated the importance of experiential learning and strategic designs of co-curricula to help students understand business practice and develop soft skills.

Beatrix Dart, a professor and academic director teaching business strategy at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management, acknowledged the immense potential of technology in the business world. However, she urged a focus on the social impacts of technology, stating, "How to make the world more sustainable, fair, and inclusive for everyone through technology is of paramount importance." Patricia Collins, associate director of MBA programs at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, further underscored the value of exchange programs as a means to gain insights from other countries and apply that knowledge in their own courses. She stated, “Everyone has something valuable to bring back home.”

Following a brief tour of the downhill campus after the speech, Collins mentioned that the buildings at NCCUC reminded her of an old college campus. “It is very convenient and easy to walk from building to building, very efficient.” Her observation highlighted both the aesthetics and practicality of NCCU's campus design, offering a delightful blend of tradition and modern functionality.

Diana Hehle from the University of Cologne seized the opportunity to visit NCCUC. The University of Cologne and NCCUC have maintained a robust, long-term partnership, facilitating the exchange of a high number of students each semester. Lim expressed her perspective, saying, “So far, we have received reports from students, but seeing things with my own eyes has made a significant difference. Now I can describe the experience to students beyond just relying on pictures. The Pre-Conference at NCCUC undeniably deepened the understanding and connection between our two institutions.”

In the afternoon, the participants visited the TSMC Museum of Innovation in Hsinchu, where they delved into the remarkable journey of TSMC and its innovative business model in integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing and product applications. The museum is divided into three engaging galleries. The first, "A World of Innovation," provided participants with a firsthand experience of how ICs have enriched our lives through Virtual Reality Devices. In the subsequent gallery, "Unleashing Innovation," they explored how TSMC has contributed to global innovation. The final gallery shed light on the childhood and education of Dr. Morris Chang, the founder of TSMC. Given TSMC’s manufacturing of over 60% of the world’s semiconductors, including over 90% of the most advanced ones, a deeper exploration of TSMC is not only essential for understanding the company but also for gaining insights into Taiwan's significance in the semiconductor industry.

In contrast to Canada, Taiwan emerges as a dynamic and relatively youthful nation, characterized by a remarkable proclivity for adaptation and swift evolution. Collins expressed her keen interest in exploring commonalities among different countries as they navigate sustainability through new technology in their distinctive yet appropriate ways. In an era where knowledge knows no borders, NCCUC aspires for the 2023 Pre-PIM Conference to foster global collaboration and innovation in the field of business education, following the guiding principles of PIM.

On Saturday, October 21st, the 6th floor of the Commerce building at National Chengchi University (NCCU) came alive with the promise of exciting opportunities. Over 200 prospective students registered for 2024 NCCU's IMBA Information Session, eager to explore the world of possibilities that this renowned program offers.

The event kicked off promptly at 10:30 am with a warm welcome from Yao Wang, a second-year student and the event host. Yao set the stage for the informative and engaging session that awaited the eager audience. He highlighted the exciting program ahead, showcasing six prominent speakers who would share invaluable insights into the NCCU IMBA experience.

he first speaker was Professor Jason Tsai, the Director of the IMBA Program at NCCU. He illuminated the distinctive features of the NCCU IMBA, including being the first English MBA program in Taiwan, the only PIM Member in the country, and the first dual-accredited MBA program. Professor Tsai emphasized the diverse composition of the student body, which comprises international and local students and offers opportunities for student exchange and dual-degree programs.

He also highlighted the broad range of academic backgrounds, such as management and information technology, and noted the international and local professors contributing to the program's diversity. With an emphasis on the curriculum, he detailed the concentration areas in management in Asia, entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance, along with dynamic learning experiences through company visits. Moreover, Professor Tsai proudly mentioned the 2015 Hult Prize won by IMBA students and the flexibility of the program, designed to accommodate full-time working individuals. He shared inspiring stories of IMBA alumni who have successfully switched careers and are now thriving in their respective fields. Professor Tsai assured prospective students that the IMBA program is a valuable stepping stone toward developing future global leaders.

He also touched upon the program's costs, credit requirements, and scholarship opportunities for both local and international students. Lastly, Professor Tsai provided insights into the admission criteria, which include a minimum of two years of professional experience, English proficiency, and relevant academic degrees.

Following Professor Tsai, Trisha Lionel, the President of the IMBA Student Council, shared her personal journey and experiences within the IMBA program. Originally from St. Lucia, she ventured to NCCU to pursue her IMBA degree. She expressed her deep appreciation for the ICDF scholarship, a significant contributor to her journey, emphasizing the strong diplomatic relations between Taiwan and her home country St Lucia.

Trisha introduced the IMBA Student Council, which plays a pivotal role in connecting students with the administration, alumni, corporations, local communities, and other MBA programs. She elaborated on the three core goals of the Council: Empowerment, Connection, and Collaboration. The Council actively promotes engagement through various initiatives, including talks, seminars, networking events, and leisure activities. Trisha encouraged prospective students to explore the rich tapestry of opportunities NCCU IMBA program offers.

The next speaker, Richard Huang, a former dual degree program student, spoke about his experience of completing two master's degrees simultaneously, offering a unique perspective on the IMBA program. Richard highlighted the advantages of spending a year at a prestigious university, immersing himself in new cultures, languages, and ideas.

His decision to pursue a dual degree program was influenced by various factors, including program details, degree offerings, the location of the partner university, and the culture of the host country. He shared his experiences at Wirtschafts University of Economics and Business in Vienna, Austria, mentioning the support services available, such as the buddy program, campus life, and student networks.

Richard delved into the specifics of his study plan, the credits needed for the dual degree program, and various elective options. He also discussed the residency permit, documentation requirements for Vienna, accommodation options, and the cost of living. Richard's personal journey included adventures, and personal growth. He recommended applying for scholarships, preparing early, signing up for orientation and language courses, taking part in school events, and joining department clubs. Richard concluded by emphasizing the transformative nature of the IMBA Dual Degree program.

Following Richard’s presentation, Taro Tseng, a member of the NCCU IMBA alumni board, shared her invaluable journey during the Information Session. Taro's impressive professional background includes roles such as a BDM/Field Sales expert in Security Scorecard, an accomplished stint as a BDM at COMPAL, and a dual-degree experience at Audencia Business School (France) in tandem with NCCU IMBA. Her journey is a testament to the diverse opportunities the program offers.

Taro's presentation revolved around three core themes: Why NCCU IMBA, 3 Things I Learned from IMBA, and Words of Wisdom for New Entrants (Give & Take). Taro conveyed her motivations for choosing NCCU IMBA. She highlighted the program's potential as a catalyst for career transformation, offering opportunities for career advancement and facilitating dual-degree pursuits. Taro underscored the program's global-local approach, first-in-Taiwan status, and the rich tapestry of its alumni network, all of which contribute to its distinctive allure.

Taro shared profound lessons from her IMBA journey. She emphasized the importance of self-awareness, encouraging students to focus on their goals, maximize their strengths, and develop practical problem-solving skills. Networking held a special place in her narrative, with Taro advocating for active participation in events, tapping into an extensive alumni network, and venturing out of comfort zones. Her global perspective from a dual-degree experience illuminated the significance of embracing diverse cultures and thriving in the real global business world.

Ozkan Kocabiyik, an IMBA alumnus and former captain of the Dragon Boat Team, shared his experiences and insights. Ozkan discussed the need to step out of one's comfort zone and embrace new challenges, emphasizing how the IMBA program helped him become a better speaker and presenter through various class assignments.

Time management emerged as a crucial aspect of Ozkan's journey, as he balanced both social life and studies. He acknowledged that students might face intense semesters but stressed the importance of prioritization and teamwork. Ozkan celebrated the vibrant social life that NCCU offers, encouraging students to immerse themselves in activities like clubbing, hiking, and making new friends. He emphasized the diverse student body, which provides opportunities to interact with people from all corners of the world.

As an investment, Ozkan viewed the IMBA program as a stepping stone to personal and professional growth, offering various leadership roles within the program and clubs. He credited his role as the Dragon Boat Team captain for boosting his confidence and leadership skills. Ozkan concluded by urging students to seize the opportunity to be leaders, practice their soft skills, and cherish the valuable experiences that the IMBA program offers.

The final speaker, Peter Huang, a second-year IMBA student, shared his insights into the program as a current student. Fluent in English, Mandarin, and Japanese, with over five years of work experience in the tech industry, Peter provided a unique perspective. Peter elaborated on why he chose the IMBA program, citing its international environment, diverse background, English-taught courses, double-degree and exchange programs, and extensive connections. He emphasized the need to attend classes in person, with options available on both weekdays and weekends.

Moreover, Peter highlighted the program's focus on business-related topics, case studies, and English-taught courses, providing students with an international perspective. He underscored that IMBA life extends beyond the classroom, with various activities like beach trips and outings. The diverse student body at NCCU fosters interaction with people from all around the world, enhancing the overall learning experience. Peter encouraged students to invest in themselves through the IMBA program and defined it as the best investment for personal and professional growth.

After an engaging question and answer segment, the anticipation of the day was far from over. Lunch boxes, brimming with flavors, were handed out, and attendees had the opportunity to interact with alumni and the IMBA Director, Professor Jason Tsai. The camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for the IMBA program filled the room.

As the sun painted the afternoon sky with its warm hues, the excitement moved to the next event: a vibrant Family Day held at the President's house. This joyful gathering was orchestrated by the IMBA office in collaboration with the Student Council, promising an afternoon of pure delight and family-friendly fun.

The event was a wonderful mix of current IMBA students, esteemed Alumni, the President of the IMBA Alumni Association (IMBAA), Yenlan Lin, and the President of the IMBA program himself, Professor Jason Tsai. Attendees were treated to a delicious spread of delectable finger foods and refreshing drinks.

In the first session, participants got to explore the flavors of Thailand with a delightful dessert called "bua loy." Current student Chalothorn and her assistant Peter, led the way in crafting this delectable treat. Bua loy is a Thai rice ball and coconut milk dessert, known for its sweet and aromatic qualities. Participants rolled up their sleeves, got hands-on with the ingredients, and immersed themselves in the art of Thai dessert making.

The second session was equally exciting, featuring a culinary adventure into the heart of Saint Lucia. Current student Trisha Lionel, assisted by Saija took the lead in guiding participants in making St. Lucian fish cakes. This dish is a true embodiment of the Caribbean's vibrant culinary heritage, blending the rich flavors of fish, local spices, and herbs. The preparation and cooking of these fish cakes were as much a cultural exploration as a culinary one.

Beyond the culinary adventures, there were other engaging activities to choose from. Julia hosted a session on Chinese calligraphy, inviting participants to explore the art of brush and ink. The strokes on paper told stories of creativity and expression, connecting participants to the beauty of this ancient art form. For those with a competitive spirit, a variety of board games were available, hosted by Jose and Adriana. Laughter, strategy, and friendly rivalries filled the room as attendees engaged in a playful battle of wits and strategy. The fun then spilled outside, where the atmosphere was perfect for some friendly games of badminton. Nichamon led the charge, and the spirited games added an active dimension to the festivities.

The NCCU IMBA Information Session and the IMBA Family Day at the President's house were two remarkable events that showcased the essence of our vibrant IMBA community. The Information Session provided invaluable insights into the program, offering a glimpse of the incredible opportunities and remarkable success stories that await prospective IMBA students. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and interest in our program. We eagerly anticipate welcoming new members to our global community of future leaders.

IMBA Family Day was a perfect continuation of the sense of camaraderie and cultural exploration that defines the NCCU IMBA experience. The shared experiences of creating Thai desserts and St. Lucian fish cakes, engaging in calligraphy and board games, and bonding over a friendly game of badminton, all reflected the diversity and unity within our IMBA family. We express our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us for this memorable day, making it a true celebration of our global community. The bonds formed and the memories created will continue to flourish as we move forward on our journey to a brighter future. Cheers to the NCCU IMBA family! 

Fueled by the students’ unwavering aspirations, NCCU College of Commerce (NCCUC) Partner School Fair made a triumphant return on October 18 thanks to the enthusiastic participation of international students and the great support of the Office of International Programs (OIP). Exchange students from 25 different countries representing 59 business schools overseas gathered beneath a vibrant display of national flags in the Commerce building. They are in the mission to introduce their respective universities and culture to local students who are interested or ready to go on exchange programs. The Fair offered detailed information of partner schools through brochures and fostered connections between local students and representatives.

The opportunity to study abroad is definitely one of the precious benefits available to NCCUC students. With the epidemic slowdown, NCCUC is proud to offer over 400 quotas for qualified students this year. The partnerships with 142 celebrated business schools spanning 42 different countries provide students with ultimate educational and networking opportunities. Notably, both numbers are increasing annually. Among the prestigious institutions in NCCUC network are the Erasmus University Rotterdam School of Management (Netherlands), Ramon Llull University ESADE Business School (Spain), University of Mannheim Business School (Germany), York University Schulich School of Business (Canada), Waseda University School of Commerce (Japan), National University of Singapore Business School (Singapore), Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management (China), and Peking University Guanghua School of Management (China), to name a few.

To travel while pursing studies is one of the most important experiences for exchange students, especially when based in Europe, given its geographic advantage. Nestled in the heart of Europe, where it’s surrounded by many economically influential countries, Switzerland is renowned for the beauty of landscape just as Taiwan does. “But don’t just do what other travelers do,” Dominik Wiedermann from University of St. Gallen advised, “You have way more time for the lakes, which are also a very big part of Swiss culture, beautiful libraries in St. Gallen and even company visits to United Nations Office at Geneva.”

When it comes to language barrier, Roshni Bhattacharya representing the Indian Institution of management Bangalore (IIMB) mentioned, “Classes are conducted only in English, language is never a concern and courses will not be as tough as you think.” In addition to academic insights, Roshni wholeheartedly encouraged local students to explore the city and culture while indulging in the traditional Indian cuisine like the “chole bhature” (鷹嘴豆咖哩及炸印度麵包), which is her favorite. Located in Bangalore, known as the Silicon Valley of India, IIMB has strong connections with numerous technology and consulting corporations, offering students valuable industry exposure. Furthermore, students need not worry about the practical aspects of living, “You don’t have to worry about figuring about where to live, what to eat and the medical facilities on campus are provided free of charge.”

All booths were well equipped with flyers and brochures. Some representatives even set up laptops showing videos or photos to provide local students with a clear picture of the respective universities. “Although our school is in Japan, Japanese students comprise only 30% of the student body.” Hiroshi Norimatsu from International University of Japan (IUJ) believes that the demographic diversity adds a unique richness to the campus environment. Moreover, Hiroshi highlighted that economic courses in Taiwan and China primarily focus on the Chinese development, but IUJ stands out by providing selected courses on Japanese development after the war.

Speaking of living expenses, Sweden is known to be quite expensive even for being in Europe. However, Emma from Stockholm school of economics recommended the “Study in Sweden” website, which breaks down costs for international students. “If you are looking for experiencing European culture, Sweden is a great place to start.” She mentioned, “It is cozy and there is always something to do where people are very friendly and welcoming.”

On the other hand, Anni Lin (林侒霓), a junior from Department of International Business shared that she is interested in going on an exchange program to Netherlands or Germany. Anni has dedicated a year and a half to learning Germany in NCCU and she couldn’t wait to put her language skills to practical use. However, after a brief introduction about school life at Erasmus University Rotterdam, she discovered that it rains a lot in Rotterdam. It made her a little hesitate since she was planning to enjoy the sunny days and beautiful beach in Europe to the fullest. Nonetheless, it is no doubt that she will find the perfect fit among the diverse and precious choices available.

This invaluable opportunity interacting with exchange students in person enabled College of Commerce students to get a clearer perspective of their prospective universities. Through the partner school fair, their concerns and doubts about studying abroad disappeared. The Office of International Programs strongly encourages students to make the most out of the resources available at NCCUC. By actively engaging with these resources, students can enrich their lives to be well-prepared with strengthened competitiveness to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.