NCKU's second cohort of five NOVA Scholars is ready to embrace international challenges and sharpen their soft skills
These scholars, from the College of Liberal Arts, College of Engineering, and College of Management, are passionate about studying abroad and have clear plans for their academic pursuits. Despite feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about stepping out of their comfort zones, they bravely embrace the challenges ahead to achieve their learning goals.
For them, studying abroad is not only about expanding their knowledge in their respective fields but also about improving their language skills and experiencing local culture and history. NCKU's Ying-Xuan Wu from the 112th class of the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature is enthusiastic about learning multiple languages, seeing it as a way to respect and connect with others. She will study linguistics and cultural studies at Leiden University in the Netherlands for six months, aiming to deepen her understanding of Dutch culture and share her Taiwanese heritage. Her experience applying for the NOVA Scholarship taught her the importance of staying updated on changes in application requirements, urging future applicants to do the same.
NCKU Mechanical Engineering student Hsin-Ying Lin, from the 113th class, is the first participant of the NCKU-Purdue dual-degree program. She is set to embark on a year-long academic journey at Purdue University in the US, aiming to pursue a master's degree and explore future career prospects while enhancing her problem-solving skills. Lin finds the NOVA Scholarships application process beneficial for practicing motivation explanation, self-introduction, and outlining future study plans, and she's eager to share her experiences to facilitate smoother application processes for future applicants.
NCKU Aerospace Engineering student Shi-Xuan Duan, 113th class, is heading to the Technical University of Munich for a broader aerospace education. He values interdisciplinary learning, aiming to excel in both his professional field and communication skills. Despite initially planning to study in the US, he's grateful for the opportunity provided by the NOVA Scholarships and is now fully committed to his European academic journey.
NCKU Civil Engineering student Guan-Yu Chuang, 113th class, is the longest-term participant in the second batch of the NOVA Scholar program, heading to UC San Diego for a 2-year study abroad journey. He stresses the importance of early planning and dedication, highlighting the significance of sincerity in scholarship applications.
NCKU Business Administration student Pin-Chi Wang from the 112th class proactively sought nomination for the NOVA Scholarships after learning about it from news reports. She stresses the importance of convincing donors of his study plans, aiming to enhance his international competence during his upcoming study at the Technical University of Munich.
The NCKU NOVA Scholarships, initiated by North American alumni and funded by alumni worldwide, offers a significant scholarship of $20,000 (approximately NT$600,000) to support students in studying abroad. The first cohort of 8 scholars began their overseas journeys in early 2023 and have completed them. The second cohort will start their journeys in the summer of 2023. On July 14th, Mr. Jen-Chieh Chang, the Media Director of the North American NCKU Alumni Foundation, visited the NCKU campus to convey care and blessings to the NOVA Scholars. The current five NOVA Scholars expressed gratitude and hope to become benefactors for future students, continuing the NCKU spirit of pursuing dreams and helping others.
The NCKU NOVA Scholarships not only offers a significant scholarship but also pairs recipients with exceptional alumni mentors. This mentorship aims to pass on valuable wisdom and experiences, fostering future generations of talented individuals with international perspectives and essential qualities.
NCKU's NOVA Scholarships encourage students to pursue overseas exchange or dual-degree programs, with each recipient eligible for up to NT$600,000. Candidates, typically high achievers or award recipients, are recommended by their departments. Applications require submission of necessary documents and are due by January 31st for fall semester programs and August 31st for spring semester programs. Departmental endorsement precedes review by the Office of International Affairs (OIA). More details can be found on the OIA website.
112th NOVA Scholar, Ying-Xuan Wu from the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature, advises prospective applicants to stay informed about updates from the OIA.
NCKU Mechanical Engineering student Hsin-Ying Lin from the 113th class, views the application process for the NOVA Scholarships as excellent self-practice.
NCKU Aerospace Engineering student Shi-Xuan Duan values life's diverse experiences. Grateful to NOVA Scholar seniors for empowering dreams, he pledges full commitment ahead.
NCKU Civil Engineering student Guan-Yu Chuang emphasizes thorough preparation and sincerity in applying for the NOVA Scholarships, stressing the importance of dedicated project drafting.
Unlike the other four NOVA Scholar this year, NCKU Business Administration student Pin-Chi Wang actively sought and secured the opportunity for departmental nomination.