Hey, guys! I’m Amber (ZihYu Chen) from National Taiwan Normal University. It’s a great honor to be part of the AEL Program. This experience has truly been a highlight of my postgraduate studies, inspiring me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new challenges.

 

In the beginning, I was quite shy about introducing myself to the group. However, AEL is such a warm and supportive family; it gave me the courage to practice and helped me find my voice. The most treasured part of this journey has been the deep conversations with professors and peers, which have significantly broadened my vision and inspired new perspectives on education. I am so grateful for the kindness and inspiration I’ve found in this program!

 

My three key learnings from AEL include:

 

1. Applying Theory to Practice: As a Philosophy of Education major, I spend much of my time analyzing original theoretical texts and debating complex ideas. While these studies provide a deep intellectual foundation, the AEL Program focused on real-world issues, giving me the chance to put these theories into action. I realized that while practical solutions are essential, theory provides the necessary framework for those solutions. Furthermore, my training in philosophy helped me identify the core of these educational challenges more effectively.

 

2. Insights into East Asian Education: The AEL Program concentrates on real-world issues within East Asian countries. Through the analyses shared by local professors, I was able to understand educational challenges from a first-hand, local perspective. This experience also allowed me to explore the social and educational contexts of different countries more deeply. Gaining these regional insights has not only provided me with a more comprehensive view of education but also established a solid foundation for my future research in comparative education.

 

3. Cultural Exchange & Connections: Studying at local universities allowed me to experience diverse academic atmospheres and immerse myself in different cultures. I realized that understanding a region's history and culture is a vital foundation for comprehending its educational issues. To show respect, I always made an effort to learn local etiquette before each trip, which helped me build friendly and meaningful rapport with professors and peers. Through this process, I not only expanded my academic network but also developed deep, lasting friendships across borders.

 

Ultimately, the AEL Program has provided me with significant academic growth and a global perspective. On a personal level, it has also shaped me into a more mature and independent individual. I am deeply grateful for the training and the beautiful memories I’ve gained from the AEL courses between 2024 and 2025. Building on this foundation, I look forward to continuing my journey of flourishing in both my academic and personal life.