Between night markets, bubble tea and a massive campus – a semester in Taipei

Fulya Nur Kirnak spent the third semester of her Master’s degree in Architecture in Taiwan’s capital. “Taipei is a very modern and vibrant city, yet it also has plenty of traditional spots – it’s precisely this mix that made the city so exciting for me,” says Fulya, explaining her choice.

For her, the semester abroad was not just a change of scenery, but a conscious decision to gain a new perspective – both professionally and personally.

Settling in amid house hunting and language barriers

The start, however, was challenging. “To be honest, I was quite overwhelmed at first when it came to finding a place to live – but that’s probably normal. You arrive in a new country, don’t know the language or culture yet, and suddenly have to organise lots of things at once.”

Fulya’s tip for anyone planning a semester abroad in East Asia: Facebook groups. Whilst these are often losing their importance in Germany, in Taiwan they are the key tool for finding accommodation and flatmates.

Before she left, Fulya had already learnt some basics in Chinese. She recommends immersing yourself in the language – ideally through a language course. “But even without speaking Chinese fluently, I was able to cope well with everyday life. Many Taiwanese people are very helpful, and most speak at least basic English.”
What’s more, NTUST offers many courses in English, which makes it easier to get started with your studies.

A campus like a small village

Once she arrived, the next surprise awaited her: the sheer size of the university. “The campus was huge, almost as big as a small village. That really took me by surprise,” she says. Yet the size doesn’t intimidate; rather, it energises. The area around the university, with its lively night markets, particularly shaped her daily life and turned her studies into an experience that went far beyond the lecture theatre.
On campus in Taipei, Fulya met students from all over the world – an experience that left a lasting impression on her. “Spending time with people from such a wide variety of countries was one of the best experiences of the semester.”

Personal growth abroad

For Fulya, one thing is certain: a semester abroad offers far more than just academic experience. “When you’re abroad, you learn to stand entirely on your own two feet, become more independent and automatically grow beyond your limits. You also get to know new cultures, new people and, of course, incredibly good food. You have plenty of time to explore the country and gain experiences you’d never have at home,” she explains. But of course, a semester abroad isn’t without its little challenges either. The high humidity and temperatures are very unfamiliar compared to Germany and not always easy for Fulya.

“One major advantage that shouldn’t be underestimated: bubble tea right in its country of origin,” adds Fulya, highlighting another of Taiwan’s perks.

Her advice to other students who might be thinking of spending a semester abroad is clear. “Definitely seize the opportunity! You only live once, and you often don’t get a chance like this again later on.”

Studying architecture at BTU

Want to prepare for a career with excellent future prospects in a friendly environment, with affordable accommodation and a wide range of leisure activities? Design buildings and structures for the construction industry? Paying attention to design, urban planning, functional, technical and economic aspects during the planning process? Taking ecological, legal and social factors into account in construction projects?
If that sounds like your sort of thing, then studyingArchitecture at the BTU is just the thing for you!