A class field trip to Taipei 101
Nine Montana Technological University students spent two weeks this summer at Minghsin University of Science and Technology in Taiwan, gaining exposure to culture, language, and cutting-edge technology.
“This was my first time leaving the country, and it was extremely life-changing,” said Evan Johnson, a civil engineering student from Fullerton, California. “The cultural experience and learning opportunities are something I’ll carry with me forever.”
First tour of Minghsin University
The students were led by Student Success and Internship Coordinator Cindy Wier and Geological Engineering Department Head Dr. Glenn Shaw.
Hunter Abbott, who studies computer science, cybersecurity and network administration, had never been abroad before, but now he’s looking into opportunities to get university credit through a semester-long study abroad exchange.
Closing ceremony with Minghsin
“As soon as I heard about the Taiwan trip, I knew I wanted to go,” Abbott said. “Seeing chip manufacturing up close and spending time in the labs was an incredible experience for a computer science student.”
A day out in a remote village eating watermelon
Students took classes in Mandarin and culture and learned about chip manufacturing. They took photos with an autographed clean suit worn by Governor Greg Gianforte when he visited a chip manufacturing facility in Taiwan. They toured landmarks including Taipei 101, one of the world’s largest buildings.
Radiologic technology student Ryan Burnham, from Belt, Montana, enjoyed the people and the cuisine.
“The people were awesome and the food was amazing,” Burham said. “It was also very affordable, compared to the U.S.”
The group feasted everywhere from street markets to sushi bars on dishes like fried chicken balls, crab triangles, and octopus. When they weren’t in class, the group had fun. They walked several miles a day, took the train to a nearby city, and were able to immerse themselves in Taiwanese culture. Some students also opted to enjoy Japan for a few days on the way home.
“The language barrier and cultural differences weren’t as challenging as I expected,” Abbott said. “It was busy—we were always learning or exploring—but that’s what made it so worthwhile. For the cost, it’s an incredible opportunity that you can’t get on your own.”