Karen ◎來自香港的國際志工
Hi everyone. My name is Chan Ka Ying, Karen. I come from Hong Kong and I’m a freshman studying in the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, major in logistics with management. In this summer, I’m so glad to come to Taiwan for my AIESEC GCDP (Global Community Development Program). This is the second time I come to Taiwan. Taiwan people gave me a very good impression last time. They are very nice, helpful and full of enthusiasm. And I love the food here! Although Hong Kong and Taiwan are having some similar cultures, there are still many differences between the two places. Therefore, I would like to explore more about Taiwan in this summer, including the unique culture, the local people and the environment. 

Now, I’m working in Hsing-Kang Foundation of Culture & Education for child education in three elementary schools here, including Gu Min Elementary School, Fu Xing lementary School and Xi Zhuang Village. I’m teaching them English. I love the kids here. They are active, cute and sweet. Although sometimes they are quite noisy, some of them are eager to learn! In the following lessons, I will try my best to teach them what I know and develop a good relationship with them.

Winnie ◎來自紐約的國際志工
Hi there! My name is Winnie Cheng and I am from New York, United States of America. Being able to work with Hsing-Kang Foundation of Culture and Education was such a great opportunity. I was able to learn more about myself and Taiwanese culture. While I was teaching English to these students I was also able to learn Mandarin and a few Taiwanese words! It was interesting to see how well I would work in an environment where I was not able to speak the language. It was a bit difficult at first, but I was able to pick up the language quickly, and with the help of the other teachers, my lessons flowed smoothly.

Before I came to Taiwan, I only knew about Taipei and how advanced the country is. I did not realize Chiayi was mostly an agricultural community. It was a BIG transition from New York City. New York City is very hectic and quick whereas in Hsing-Kang, most of the locals are laid back and relaxed. It is VERY different. 

Being able to work with the students was a great opportunity for me to realize my strengths because it was challenging to communicate with the students and it was complicated to explain to the children that foul language is unacceptable. As I worked with other teachers and taught students, I was able to implement methods that would limit their use of foul language. 

This whole trip was a learning experience. I learned about myself, Taiwanese culture, and different methods that can be used to work with children. In the United States, I have worked with students of all ages but everyone spoke English. Working with students in Taiwan is a very interesting experience.