In this fast-paced digital age, students of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) actively seek opportunities to study abroad to broaden their horizons and become globally connected talents. The Department of Computer Science was no exception in 2024, with two students, CHIU, Yi-Ting and CHANG, Ke-Ching, embarking on six-month exchange programs at ETH Zurich and Purdue University, respectively. Upon returning home with a wealth of experience, they generously shared their insights in hopes of inspiring and assisting others with similar dreams.

CHIU, Yi-Ting, Class of 2025 in the Department of Computer Science, spent his exchange semester at ETH Zurich in Switzerland. His choice was driven by ETH Zurich’s outstanding global academic reputation—consistently ranking among the world’s best across disciplines—and its impressive roster of alumni, which includes 32 Nobel laureates, notably Albert Einstein. While at ETH, CHIU took three computer science courses: Virtual Reality, Rigorous Software Engineering, and Shape Modeling and Geometry Processing. Despite having some background knowledge, he found the coursework challenging and demanding, requiring considerable effort to keep up with classes and exams due to the rigorous curriculum.

He also noted the grading system at ETH differs significantly from Taiwan’s. For instance, the Virtual Reality course was graded entirely based on the final exam (100%), and Rigorous Software Engineering had the final exam count for 80% of the grade. Such a system demands a high level of self-discipline from students.

In terms of classroom culture, CHIU observed some notable differences. After each class, students would knock on desks or clap to show appreciation. Most classrooms were also equipped with video recording systems beyond standard projectors, including cameras, screens for the professor to monitor recordings in real time, tablets at the podium to control recordings and projections, and even classroom lighting. This setup made lecture recording intuitive and seamless, so most in-person classes were also recorded.

In the same year, CHANG, Ke-Ching also embarked on an overseas exchange program. Curious about what it would be like to study abroad, he chose to attend Purdue University in Indiana, USA. His decision was based on two major advantages: Purdue’s strong standing in U.S. computer science rankings, and the fact that no additional tuition was required under NYCU’s exchange agreements in the region.

Due to federal regulations, exchange students at Purdue are required to take at least 16 credit hours, so CHANG enrolled in four courses—two in computer science and two general education classes. He found the CS courses moderately challenging, but manageable. Given Purdue’s reputation in aerospace (famed alumnus Neil Armstrong being one example), he opted for a space-themed general education course, along with another course on digital literacy. Contrary to the popular belief that U.S. professors rarely take attendance, CHANG found that all four courses maintained detailed attendance records.

Outside academics, CHANG shared highlights from his life at Purdue. Upon arrival, he joined an orientation event for international students, where he learned about campus resources and met fellow students from around the world. One of his top recommendations for future Purdue exchange students is to attend a college basketball game in person—an electrifying and unforgettable experience. He also suggested taking advantage of the one-week break after midterms to travel around the U.S., explore other regions, and immerse oneself in the diverse culture and landscapes the country has to offer.

In response to increasing globalization and international engagement, NYCU has provided ample opportunities for students to study abroad and gain international exposure. Students like CHIU, Yi-Ting and CHANG, Ke-Ching have seized these opportunities, enriching their academic and personal lives while transforming their experiences into stories to inspire their juniors. Through these shared reflections, we hope that more NYCU students will step out of their comfort zones, embrace new challenges abroad, and gather the nutrients needed for personal and professional growth. When the time is right, these seeds will surely blossom—nurturing future global talents that NYCU can proudly call its own.