The happiest explorer, Huaipu Chen (center), with Captain Bryon (left) and the other crew members.
Nicknamed “King Sailor” on NTU campus, Huaipu Chen, a student in the Trans-disciplinary Bachelor Degree Program (TBD), participated in D-School’s Exploratory Learning program during the 2023 academic year. Together with Bryon, an American captain, King Sailor embarked on a sailing adventure from Mexico which became a journey of self-discovery and adventure for him. Chen documented his journey by producing and editing the film, “Explorer’s Adventure: Sailing in Search of Home.” Through this film, he shared the pivotal life-changing moments that have shaped him, as well as the challenges of his life at sea, port stops, and local cultural experiences. He says, “I want to spend my life exploring the unknown. I don’t want to rely on maps drawn by others—I will visit every corner of the world on my own. The Arctic and Antarctic are among my destinations, and from that, I will paint my own picture of the world.”
Huaipu Chen hopes that one day, his name will be among the most influential people in marine science. To bring his dream of becoming a marine science explorer closer to reality, he obtained a sailing competency certificate from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and became the youngest-ever RYA Yachtmaster in Asia. He also plans to travel to the Arctic to study narwhals and undergo polar training.
Ruby Yun-Ju Huang, Chief of the Exploratory Learning program and a professor in the Department of Medicine, remarked, “NTU always stands behind its students, encouraging them to bravely follow their dreams and become who they want to be.” Shenglin Elijah Chang, Director of the Trans-disciplinary Bachelor Degree Program (TBD), added, “The TBD program is a place that offers you courage and the means to pursue your dream. If you dare to dream, we are here to support you.” Do you have a dream? Don’t be afraid—D-School is here to help you dream big and turn those dreams into reality!
✦ Trans-disciplinary Bachelor Degree Program
✦ Exploration Learning
Huaipu Chen sailing towards his dream of becoming a marine science explorer.
Screening and sharing session of King Sailor’s documentary Explorer’s Adventure: Sailing in Search of Home.
Huaipu Chen sharing his story of exploration and learning on his sailing adventures.