Accepted! My Next Chapter: Navigating Expectations on the Path to Transcultural Understanding

 

Twenty years – two decades of my career – spent immersed in the vibrant hum of English classrooms at KMJH and workshops all over Taiwan. In that time, a powerful truth has taken root: language isn't just about words; it's about worlds connecting. Now, I'm thrilled to announce the next step in this incredible journey: my acceptance into the International PhD Program in Taiwan and Transcultural Studies at National Chung Hsing University!

A Perfect Fit for Program Alignment?

However, the path to this exciting new chapter wasn't without its moments of reflection. During the entrance examination, a thoughtful professor gently reminded me that the program's focus might differ from my initial expectations. A seed of doubt was planted – perhaps my specific research interests wouldn't perfectly align. Yet, my passion for English and the immense potential of international collaboration remains unwavering. This program's emphasis on English as the medium for vibrant class discussions and its core focus on transculturality continue to fuel my high hopes for the journey ahead.

Bringing the World into the Classroom

My career as an English educator in Taiwan has been deeply rewarding. At Kuang-Ming Junior High School, I've had the privilege of not only teaching language but also fostering international exchange. From leading professional development and spearheading global projects to proudly seeing our school earn the British Council's "International School Award" multiple times (including 2016 and 2021), my focus has been on creating dynamic learning environments that transcend borders. My teaching philosophy, "Passion x Method x Time = Dream Realisation," underscores this commitment to practical, engaging education.

NCHU and the Allure of Transculturality

Despite the professor's cautionary words, the allure of the "International PhD Program in Taiwan and Transcultural Studies" at NCHU remains strong. Its emphasis on Taiwan's pivotal role in global cultural dialogue and its deep dive into "transculturality" – the fluid interplay of cultures – still resonate deeply with my long-held belief in the connective power of language. I'm eager to explore how my passion for English and international collaboration can find its place within this framework. This program still feels like the ideal space to merge my practical classroom experience with rigorous academic exploration.

English as a Catalyst for Cross-Cultural Dialogue

My research will center on how English language education can actively foster genuine transcultural dialogue within Taiwanese classrooms. I aim to move beyond traditional language-focused approaches to develop and evaluate teaching strategies that cultivate deeper intercultural understanding among students. While I acknowledge the potential for misalignment raised during the examination, I am optimistic that my focus on the practical application of English in bridging cultural understanding will find a valuable niche within the program's broader scope of transcultural studies.

Bridging Theory and Practice

The program's curriculum, including courses like "Introduction to Transcultural Studies" and "Taiwan Humanities Studies in the International Context," still holds significant appeal. I believe these courses will provide a valuable theoretical foundation for exploring the intersections of language, culture, and identity. I plan to employ a Mixed-Methods Approach, gathering rich qualitative data through classroom observations and interviews, alongside potential quantitative data from surveys. Action Research will be a key component, allowing for the practical development and continuous refinement of teaching strategies in real classroom settings, hopefully bridging any gap between my initial expectations and the program's specific direction.

Navigating the Path with Passion and Openness

Ultimately, my goal remains to contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse on Taiwan's intercultural engagement and to demonstrate the transformative potential of English education in building transcultural competence. While the professor's reminder has prompted thoughtful consideration, my passion for this field and my belief in the power of English to connect cultures remain undimmed. I am approaching this new chapter with both excitement and an open mind, ready to navigate any potential challenges and contribute to the program in meaningful ways.

This PhD journey marks an exciting new chapter, one where years of practical experience will inform rigorous academic inquiry, hopefully leading to innovative approaches in education that align with the program's core values. I'm eager to embark on this path, further solidifying English as a powerful bridge for cross-cultural understanding and dialogue, even if the exact route looks slightly different than initially imagined.