University of Wisconsin–Madison

Taiwan: Ace Lo (New Experience)

New Experience: International Learning Companion (ICL)

Three people walk down a path through tall grass and bushes towards a lake, where a tall island is visible in the distance.
Beautiful view of the ocean at Shiou-Lin Junior High School

I enrolled in a cultural exchange course called International Learning Companion, a national program under the Ministry of Education, that provided international students the opportunity to connect with rural kids through weekly skype and fully-sponsored field trips. I was fortunate to meet Taiwanese aboriginal and non-aboriginal students from Miaoli County, Hsinchu County, Hualien County, Yilan County, and most importantly, Taoyuan County.

During my field trips, I met students from the Amis indigenous tribe (aka Pangcah). My little friends (小朋友) introduced their culture by performing an indigenous dance and music! I was also invited to perform and play a fun game with them in their native tongue. Afterward, I got the chance to experience Pangcah hot pot! I’ve never imagined that adding hot charred rocks into the broth would give it so much flavor! During my trips to other schools, I also met with my little friends, and we made tea pillow DIY, played the taiko drum, and cooked Yunnan rice noodles!

A small fire burns on the ground next to leaves and cylindrical containers.
First time experiencing Pangcah Hot Pot!

Overall, I thought this program was such a fun experience because Taiwan has so many unique spoken languages and cultures, which the majority of people don’t know about. When I go back home, I don’t think I’ll ever forget a single face of each student; they’re like my family.

 

 

 

 

Ace stands next to a metal railing overlooking dry hills and mountains.

Ace Lo

Major: Consumer Behavior & Marketplace Studies

Hometown: Wausau, Wisconsin

Program: National Taiwan University Exchange