Learning Inside & Outside of the Classroom

Student-Teacher Relationship

Students should show a high level of respect toward their teachers. This respect may be shown in ways that are somewhat different than in the United States. It is expected that students will go to class on time, turn their cell phones off, be well-prepared, notify the program staff, in advance, if they take a sick leave from the class, or will otherwise miss class.  Keep in mind that some behavior that is acceptable in the United States may convey a message of disrespect in Taiwan. Middlebury in Taiwan maintains rules of classroom etiquette, including no eating in class, no chewing gum, sitting cross-legged, or wearing a caps or flip-flops in class. (Head-coverings for religious purposes are excepted.)  This will be discussed during orientation, and exceptions can be discussed with the director.

Learning Outside the Classroom

Middlebury College encourages all undergraduate students to take full advantage of their experience abroad by participating in learning experiences outside the classroom.  Volunteer work and cultural activities provide students with opportunities to deepen your social immersion in Taiwanese culture, enhance your language skills, and gain a better understanding of contemporary Taiwan.

Internships

Students with at least intermediate-high Chinese proficiency have the opportunity to undertake an internship with the approval of the Director. Middlebury in Taiwan requires that all internships take place in an environment that is at least 80% Chinese-speaking.

Cultural Activities

Students will participate in a four-day group traveling seminar during the semester, as well as a variety of individual cultural excursions to relevant sites. Students will also participate in other activities organized by the program.

Depending on the level of interest and availability of qualified teachers, co-curricular classes may be offered in Chinese calligraphy, Taiwanese dialect, traditional arts, Taiwanese cooking, meditation, and the study of various Chinese musical instruments.

NSYSU has a variety of student clubs and organizations that are open to international students. Areas of interest include wind surfing, sailing, kayaking, hiking, drama, career development, ping pong, and more. NSYSU’s campus is equipped with indoor and outdoor athletic facilities, including basketball and badminton courts, as well as a soccer field, although these spaces must often be reserved in advance. (Sunset Beach, however is open from 10am – 9pm each day, and accessible for free, with your student ID.)  An indoor pool and two gyms are located located on campus and require a small fee ($.50 – $1.00, depending on the day) to use.  More information about campus facilities will be provided during orientation.