For the first time, a Norwich cadet has been sent to study at Fu Hsing Kang College’s campus, although the partnership between the two institutions has been ongoing, with students from FHK attending Norwich’s Northfield campus for several semesters.
“It is rare to have an opportunity to be abroad for so long,” said Vincent Furtado, 20, UNG sophomore, corps of cadets, modern Chinese major from California. “It is very difficult but quite rewarding.”
Fu Hsing Kang College is a sub-college of one of four military academies in Taiwan, along with Guan Li, Management College, and a school for STEM majors in Taoyuan.
Besides Norwich University students, there are also students from the University of North Georgia who have also seen improvement in their speaking skills.
“By being in a fully immersive environment, my Mandarin ability has improved in all fields,” Furtado said.
Although the Chinese level of exchange students varies, they range from intermediate to more advanced.
Abraham Condrell, 19, UNG sophomore, corps of cadets, modern Chinese major, from Illinois, stated that his time at
Fu Hsing Kang College has helped improve his Chinese listening and speaking abilities.
“Unlike Chinese classes back stateside, here these improvements were mostly of my initiative,” Condrell said.
“Reading Chinese characters is something you still need to work on your own,” said Aiden Lawall, 20, UNG sophomore, corps of cadets, computer science major from Colorado. “Even though my speaking and listening skills are improving naturally through immersion.”
One of the biggest differences is that there are a greater number of rules at Fu Hsing Kang College than at Norwich University.
While both schools have a similar Initial Entry Training program for first-year students, there are more rules for every student.
Even with the challenge of adapting to life abroad, particularly at a military college, the exchanges have also had a great time.
“I have really enjoyed getting to meet the people here,” said Micah Dell, 19, UNG sophomore, corps of cadets, strategic and security studies major, from Georgia. “I enjoy hanging out with the people here, and most of everyone is very friendly.”
Fu Hsing Kang College is looking forward to hosting three more Norwich University students in the Fall of 2024. Studying abroad is a great opportunity to explore the world while sharpening your academic and cultural knowledge.
If you are interested in applying to participate or would just like more information about study abroad programs available at Norwich University, please check out the International Center on the top floor of Plumley Armory or go to their website.
