During the summer of 2016, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Taiwan as part of a short-term study abroad course through the University of Wyoming. The nearly three-week journey began in Taipei, and continued along the East Coast toward the south of the island nation and back. The days were often full of activity and excitement, as our group visited numerous sites throughout the trip and engaged in a participatory learning process.
As the central themes of the course focused on the development and democratization of Taiwan, I was able to learn about the complex history of the country, visit community organizations and participate in discussions, learn about indigenous peoples and culture, and much more.
I feel incredibly fortunate for this experience and to have met so many wonderful people along the way. Since daily recollections of the trip would take up far too many pages, I have instead opted to include just a few highlights of this eventful journey.
Taiwan’s Presidential Inauguration
Yes, our professor was able to get us invitations to attend the inauguration of the newly elected president of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, and the event was incredible! It was such an exciting (and very hot) morning as we witnessed important history being made; Tsai is Taiwan’s first female president, and also a member of the Democratic Progressive Party.
The momentous occasion was packed with people from all over the world. Media personnel were stationed at multiple points throughout the venue. Parts of the event space were adorned in celebratory décor, and giant character floats loomed high above over the crowds.
It was evident that great effort and planning went into making this an amazing event. The program included an overview of Taiwan’s history, development, and cultural heritage through elaborate stage performances. Some performances occurred off-stage as well in the audience area, including dragon dances and other processions.
It was a truly remarkable celebration that went beyond a typical study-abroad experience; this was literally a once-in-a-lifetime event that I will remember forever, and one which holds important political significance for Taiwan.