52 students from leading American colleges and universities-- Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Columbia, Williams, and Reed-- celebrating the formal launch of the Harvard Taipei Academy on June 16.
The Harvard Taipei Academy (HTA), a collaborative initiative between National Taiwan University (NTU) and Harvard University, formally commenced on June 16, 2024. This year’s academy, made possible by generous support and assistance from the Ministry of Education and the Harvard Club of Taiwan, ROC, attracted 52 students from leading American colleges and universities, including Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Columbia, Williams, and Reed, to participate in an eight-week Chinese language program. HTA is aimed to enhance the students’ Chinese language skills through intensive courses and cultural exchanges with NTU students, enriching and broadening the international perspectives of every participant.
The program offered a variety of cultural experiences and field trips, allowing students to immerse themselves in local geography and culture. HTA also organized various activities for the students to experience the essence of Chinese culture, such as calligraphy, Tai Chi, and the intricate art of Peking Opera face painting. The NTU student families who hosted international students, supplied more personalized cultural and off-campus experiences through daily interactions, conversations, and cross-cultural exchanges. The students also explored the distinctive local sights and culture of Dadaocheng, the hot springs of Xinbeitou, the unique rock formations of Yehliu, and the mountain town of Jiufen. Amidst the current AI boom, HTA also organized visits to high-tech companies to help students experience the vibrancy of Taiwan’s AI industry firsthand.
While the students’ weekend activities featured visits to famous landmarks and interactions with local residents, their Social Study Project Week included field studies in diverse areas to understand the local social and cultural dynamics. Through this immersive project, HTA students conducted fieldwork around Taiwan and learned about many of its facets: forests in the central mountains, rich history in the south, and diverse ethnic groups (the Bunun and Amis) and cultures in the east. These activities offered students a first-hand understanding of the social landscape and cultural pulse, fostering stronger, rich and diverse connections between Taiwan and the globe.
HTA student learning Chinese calligraphy in a cultural experience course.
HTA students practicing basic Peking Opera moves at the Jinju Theater.
