Annie Tsan '22

During my study abroad, I met many new people, made good friends, saw some of Taiwan’s breathtaking natural scenery, and was able to ride the famed high-speed rail. That hike was most definitely a whirlwind but, overall, my time in the country was a whirlwind. To make the most of the experience, I pushed myself to go outside of my comfort zone. I made paper using traditional techniques pioneered by ancient China. I played some scales on the erhu. I got the chance to hear Taiyu, a language native to Taiwan. I visited an indigenous village in the gorgeous Sun Moon Lake area. All these experiences were complemented by Mandarin classes and an internship. I studied Mandarin 5 days a week for 3 hours each day and was able to learn of how Taiwanese people speak Mandarin. I interned at LexNovia Venture Studio, where I researched US-Taiwan legislation and learned about the world of business consulting. My experiences in Taiwan were made especially fulfilling by the amazing people I met. My time studying abroad in Taiwan has made me a better person and has cemented my ambitions of pursuing a career as a Foreign Service Officer. 

I want to pursue a career in the State Department’s Foreign Service. I received the nationally competitive Rangel Fellowship, which is funded by the U.S. Department of State and supports individuals who want to pursue a career in the Foreign Service.