Double Degree at NKUST in Taiwan

Lucca Schubert and Moritz Griesser share insights into their current Double Degree program at NKUST in Taiwan

Lucca Schubert and Moritz Griesser, students of the master's program in International Business & Law at MCI, are currently in Taiwan, pursuing an MBA as part of a double degree agreement with the National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST). In brief interviews, they share personal insights into their academic and intercultural experiences abroad.

Overall Experience:

Would you recommend a double degree program to other students and if so, why?

Griesser: Yes, I would definitely recommend the double degree program to my fellow students, especially to those who seek academic and personal growth through international experiences. My time in Taiwan has shown me how enriching it is to study in a completely new environment for such a long time. Studying in Taiwan has allowed me to gain new perspectives on global issues and develop my intercultural competencies through daily interactions with local students and international peers. It offers a great opportunity to test and gain initial experience in an international career.

Schubert: Yes, I would recommend it to my fellow students. The first reason is that you have one entire year abroad and not only one semester. In this year you can dive deeper into the academic life in Taiwan, and you also get the opportunity to write your thesis abroad, what improved my personal academic skills. Another reason is that you earn an internationally recognised MBA degree that will boost your future career aspirations.

What was your biggest challenge?

Griesser: The biggest challenge for me was adjusting to a completely different culinary culture and daily routines. Coming from South Tyrol, where home-cooked meals are common, it was surprising to see how much dining out and street food culture shapes daily life in Taiwan. In the beginning, I also had to get used to the different flavors and dishes, which were quite unfamiliar to me (Chinese food at home is very different). Additionally, the language barrier was a significant challenge, as very few people speak English, making even simple daily interactions, such as ordering food or asking for directions, more difficult than expected.

Schubert: One of the biggest challenges I faced during my semester abroad in Kaohsiung was adapting to the language barrier in daily life. While English was sufficient in academic settings, many everyday interactions—whether in restaurants, local markets, or administrative offices—required at least basic Mandarin or Taiwanese, making even the simplest tasks unexpectedly difficult. Setting up a bank account, ordering food in a traditional eatery, or even asking for directions often turned into a mix of gestures, translation apps, and trial and error. While university courses in Kaohsiung were English-friendly, navigating the city and interacting with locals often required a level of language proficiency I simply didn’t have. Rather than fully overcoming this challenge, I had to find ways to work around it, relying on the patience and kindness of locals and adapting to situations where miscommunication was inevitable.

Academic Experience:

In your opinion, what is the biggest benefit of your double degree program?

Schubert: In my opinion, the greatest benefit of a double degree program is the opportunity to gain an international perspective by immersing oneself in different academic and cultural environments. During my time in Taiwan, I experienced first-hand how studying in a different cultural hemisphere broadens one’s understanding of global challenges and ways of living.

University here is quite different and the biggest benefit I had during my time was less gaining more academic knowledge but getting in touch with my classmates from all around Asia and learn how they see the world, politics, sustainability and society.

What skills or insights did you gain that might positively impact your academic or professional future?

Griesser: Through my time in Taiwan, I have significantly improved my intercultural communication skills, teamwork abilities, and adaptability - key competencies in any international career. Additionally, the interactive teaching style and emphasis on collaboration have strengthened my ability to think critically, work efficiently in diverse teams, and approach problem-solving from multiple perspectives. Living in a different cultural environment also reinforced my self-organization skills and resilience, both of which will be beneficial in high-pressure professional settings.

Student Life:

Which cultural differences or challenges surprised or impressed you the most during your stay?

Griesser: I was particularly impressed by the high level of hospitality and helpfulness of the Taiwanese people, which made my transition much smoother. One surprising cultural difference was the strong emphasis on collective harmony and indirect communication, which contrasts with the more direct approach common in Europe. Additionally, the coexistence of ancient Chinese traditions with cutting-edge technology in daily life was fascinating to experience.

Schubert: Students here tend to be shyer and less extroverted, which I found interesting. I think this is common in many Asian cultures, especially those influenced by traditional Chinese values, where there’s often a greater emphasis on modesty and respect for others' personal space and saving face. For example, students here are less likely to go out for clubbing or bar-hopping as frequently as in Europe. Socializing tends to happen in quieter, more intimate settings rather than in the large, loud groups common in European nightlife. This difference in social dynamics was something I had to adapt to, but it was also refreshing to experience a more subdued, reflective approach to social interactions.

Destination:

Did you discover any locations (hidden gems) which you would like to share?

Schubert: Cijin Beach is Kaohsiung’s go-to spot for a quick and easy beach escape. It’s super convenient to get there—just hop on public transport and take the short ferry ride across the harbour, which already gives you a great view of the city. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by black sand, a refreshing sea breeze, and plenty of space to relax. Whether you want to chill by the water, try a cocktail from the local beach bars, or explore the island a bit, Cijin Beach is a great place to spend a laid-back afternoon.

Are there any aspects of the local life that surprised you?

Griesser: Yes, I was surprised by how deeply ingrained night markets and street food culture are in daily life. Unlike in Europe, where people often cook at home, eating out is the norm in Taiwan. Another aspect that stood out to me was the incredibly efficient public transportation system, which made it easy to explore not only my host city, Kaohsiung, but the entire country. The strong emphasis on safety and public trust also made a lasting impression on me.

Highlight:

Please formulate the most outstanding highlight of your double degree experience in one sentence?

Griesser: The most outstanding highlight of my joint degree experience has been the opportunity to immerse myself in a completely new cultural and academic environment, where I have gained invaluable international perspectives, expanded my intercultural skills, and built a network of inspiring peers from around the world.

Schubert: My highlight was, when my thesis advisor invited me to a business congress where I had to introduce myself in Mandarin Chinese and build a network with many Taiwanese businessmen.

Thank you very much Mr. Schubert and Mr. Griesser for sharing with us your insights on your double degree at National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology. We wish you all the best for your remaining time in Taiwan.