Double the experience: Taiwanese student completes two memorable exchanges at Umeå University

Hung-Ting Chien is from Taiwan where temperatures rarely fall below 20 degrees. During his undergraduate studies at National Taiwan University, he decided to study abroad for an exchange semester at Umeå University in spring 2021, despite the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It was a 100% shock when I arrived in Umeå," says Hung-Ting. "I had never seen snow before, and the snow here even piled up higher than me. The coldest day I ever experienced in Taiwan was probably 10 degrees, so my clothes weren’t exactly designed for the climate in northern Sweden. I remember that my first meal was pasta, and when I put it near the window it froze in 5 minutes.”

Due the pandemic, all his courses were carried out online. Hung Ting's major subject area was biochemical science but one course that he particularly enjoyed at Umeå University was the Swedish beginner’s course for international students. “The teacher was so enthusiastic and encouraging, and also introduced us to Swedish culture and classic children’s songs,” says Hung-Ting.

My exchange in Umeå was actually a life-changing journey.

Since there were no traditional lectures on campus, the IKSU Sport fitness centre - one of the largest in Scandinavia - became the natural meeting place for students to socialize and Hung-Ting was often there on their legendary sand-filled indoor beach volleyball courts. 

"Umeå felt like a whole new world to me," said Hung-Ting with happy reflection. "Looking back, I appreciate that I was brave enough to come here because I have grown so much as a person and learned about the true meaning of friendship. I met my best friends here at Umeå University. My exchange in Umeå was actually a life-changing journey for me." 

After graduating from National Taiwan University with a bachelor's degree in  biochemical science and technology, Hung-Ting was determined to return to Europe and was admitted to a master’s degree programme in molecular medicine and innovative treatment at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. During his final semester in spring 2024, he had opportunity to do an overseas internship as part of his programme and received an Erasmus Mobility Scholarship to attend Umeå University once again, making him an exchange student for the second time.

For me the most important thing was about the connections you make rather than the destination alone.

"I was thrilled because I had many beautiful memories here in Umeå. I want to feel myself again, the bright one.  For me the most important thing was about the connections and memories you make rather than the destination alone," says Hung-Ting with a smile.

Three questions with Hung-Ting Chien

What’s the best thing about Umeå University?

Umeå University takes great care of its international and exchange students. We all feel so welcome! Some wonderful examples include the buddy programme, IKSU fitness centre, and the super friendly staff at the international office and Infocenter.

Do you have any advice for someone thinking about studying at Umeå University on exchange?

Honestly, the best time of my life was the exchange at Umeå University, so my sole advice is to simply come. There are so many places and events where you can meet people who likely become lifelong friends. It doesn’t matter what kind of person you are; you will create wonderful memories—beautiful nature, amazing friends, IKSU, bonfires, Aurora Borealis ... what more could you ask for?

What will you be doing in ten years?

I hope to stay in Sweden and working in the biotech industry. Or perhaps running my own business if I can. (Och såklart prata svenska flytande.)

Honestly, the best time of my life was during my exchange at Umeå University.