From August 3 to 17, 34 undergraduate and postgraduate students from three schools—Materials Science and Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, and Chemistry and Chemical Engineering—traveled to Lunghwa University of Science and Technology in Taiwan, China, accompanied by three faculty members, to kick off a two-week study program.
Professional Advancement: From Textbook Theory to Hands-On Practice
How "mysterious" is the semiconductor field? Senior instructors at Lunghwa adopted a "progressive teaching approach" to unpack its secrets step by step: First, students took Introduction to the Semiconductor Industry to grasp the industry’s overview; next, they studied Semiconductor Process Technology to solidify their theoretical foundation. Then, donning their lab coats, they entered the laboratory, engaging in hands-on semiconductor processing and packaging operations—following precise steps to experience the "birth of a chip" firsthand!
From analyzing the properties of semiconductor materials to conducting detailed component testing, every operation demanded a rigorous attitude. Concepts like "wafer" and "packaging and testing," once abstract in textbooks, transformed into tangible practices. With each adjustment and observation, their professional confidence grew steadily stronger.
Cultural Exploration: Finding "Resonance from Shared Roots" in Everyday Warmth
The study journey extended beyond laboratories to the streets and lanes of Taiwan, China. Guided by local guides, students visited the National Palace Museum, marveling at the shared cultural heritage of people across the Strait through millennia-old artifacts. At the Shilin Official Residence, they felt the warmth of history amid blooming flora and lush greenery. Standing by the floor-to-ceiling windows of Taipei 101, they watched as the city’s skyscrapers and old streets wove into a unique urban tapestry. In the evening, the sea breeze at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf carried a salty, crisp freshness, easing the fatigue from days of intensive learning.
Trendy stores in Ximending, "sausage wrapped in glutinous rice" at Raohe Night Market, and bubble tea at Shilin Night Market... These authentic "Taiwan, China flavors" allowed students to feel the warmth of everyday life. Through these moments, they gained a deeper understanding of the true meaning of "people across the Strait are one family."
Students’ Reflections: Growth and Insights Hidden in the Study Journey
"For me, this study program connected the scattered theoretical knowledge I’d learned before into a coherent framework through a complete process flow. I now have a comprehensive, systematic understanding of ‘how chips are made’. At the same time, I broke free from the limitations of ‘theoretical learning only’—I got to use mainstream industry equipment, which boosted my confidence in professional skills and hands-on abilities. I also gained a clearer view of the semiconductor industry’s development trends and technical bottlenecks, and identified the areas I need to keep learning in the future."
—Student from School of Materials Science and Engineering
"This study journey made me realize that as future engineers, we not only need solid professional knowledge but also cross-disciplinary collaboration skills. Technological development is never isolated; only through cooperation can we achieve win-win outcomes. Cross-Strait exchanges are not just a platform for technical cooperation, but also a bridge for cultural trust. Talking with students and teachers from the other side of the Strait, I felt our shared academic aspirations and passion for innovation—and gained a deeper understanding of the importance of cooperation."
—Student from School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Final Thoughts
This summer study journey was far more than a fleeting, surface-level experience—it was a journey of "honing skills" and "clarifying directions": breaking down the barrier between theory and practice through professional hands-on work, grasping the true meaning of cooperation through exchanges, and fortifying their resolve to move forward through personal exploration.
The study story in Taiwan, China has drawn to a close, but the "growth journey" of SUES students still has plenty more excitement in store. Next, we will unlock more summer study stories! We also look forward to seeing more SUES students set off with courage next summer, letting their youth shine on a broader stage!
