Its history, resilient economy, and long-held cultural traditions make it an unforgettable destination to visit. Our 2-week Mandarin Intensive program divides its time between rice farming communities in Yilan county and the bustling metropolis of Taipei while providing ample opportunities for Mandarin language practice throughout.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS & OUTCOMES

• Learn and improve your Mandarin skills through classes, interactions with homestay families, and meetings with local mentors
• Experience rural life in a traditional rice farming community 
• Explore Taiwan’s ethnic and ecological diversity as well as its living political history
• Build skills for future studies, work, and travel in the region
• Develop an understanding of contemporary Taiwan, including topics related to business, politics, history, gender, and the environment

Starting in Yilan’s fertile plains, students learn about sustainable farming practices that have evolved over generations. Living with carefully selected host families, we engage in daily language lessons while absorbing local routines, appreciating rice’s profound significance in the society, and delving firsthand into local traditions. Immersed in this tight knit community, we gain an appreciation for a distinct way of life while actively honing our language skills and cultural awareness. 

From the more rural setting of Yilan, we transition to the big city lights of Taipei, where we spend a few days exploring the political, cultural, and economic center of Taiwan. Known for its night markets, Japanese colonial architecture, and a thriving scene of young activists, we infuse our urban time with continued language lessons, delicious food, and many opportunities to practice our language skills with locals. During our 2-weeks we build not only improved language competence but also a deeper confidence in ourselves.