On September 10, the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs (OICSA) held the 2025 Academic Year Orientation and Welcome Reception for International Freshmen at the Chang Yeo Lan Conference Hall of the Hsu Shou-Chlien International Conference Center. Approximately 360 international students from around the world attended the event.

Vice President for International Affairs, Prof. Hsiao-Chuan Chen, first welcomed the new students for choosing to join the Tamkang University family. She introduced the university’s motto, “Simplicity, Truthfulness, Firmness, and Perseverance,” and explained how Tamkang integrates its Triple Objectives of Globalization, Informatization-oriented Education, and Future-oriented Education into the curriculum to cultivate cross-disciplinary talents with a global vision. She highlighted that the university has established partnerships with 285 universities in 45 countries, providing a broad platform for exchange and growth alongside peers from around the world. Dr. Chen encouraged students to make full use of both academic and extracurricular opportunities to sharpen their studies, build confidence, and explore new interests. She further suggested that international students enhance their Chinese language skills, both as a competitive advantage for future employment and as a meaningful way to gain a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture. She concluded by expressing hope that students would, after graduation, join Tamkang’s alumni associations around the globe to carry on their friendships and the Tamkang spirit.

Officer Yi-Chieh Dong of the New Taipei City Police Department gave a briefing on campus safety and anti-fraud awareness. In addition to providing important contact numbers for emergencies, women and children’s safety, anti-fraud, first-aid and fire reporting, as well as indicating the exact locations of police stations around the campus. She explained common online scams—such as fake friendships, fraudulent transfers, counterfeit online shops, and underground currency exchanges—and shared practical countermeasures, stressing the importance of staying calm, verifying information, and calling 165 for assistance. She reminded international students to protect themselves while in Taiwan and contribute to a safe and friendly campus environment.

Counseling Psychologist Hao-Ju Hsu presented on “Cross-Cultural Adjustment and Gender Equality.” Through interactive games, she guided students to share cultural experiences and emotions from their home countries. She noted that cultural differences in daily life, such as food, clothing, housing, and transportation, may cause culture shock, but urged students to adopt an open mindset and learn to overcome these challenges. She emphasized the importance of personal space and body boundaries, urging students to respect privacy and maintain social distance to avoid misunderstandings or inappropriate behavior. She also introduced Taiwan’s Sexual Harassment Prevention Act and Stalking and Harassment Prevention Act, using scenario-based videos to strengthen understanding. Finally, she shared that the Counseling Center (Room B408) is available for support and encouraged students to seek help when needed. Hsing-Yu Lin, staff member of the Department of English, explained the rules for English course waivers. Eligible students may apply to waive English (I) and (II) courses.

At the end of the orientation, Dean of International Affairs, Prof. Chien-Mu Yeh, once again warmly welcomed the international freshmen. He introduced the services provided by the International and Cross-Strait Exchange Section and the International Student Support Section, inviting each staff member to introduce themselves. Prof. Yeh remarked: “During your time studying in Taiwan, if you need any assistance, please feel free to reach out to us—we will be your most important partners!”