ONIF Alumni Spotlight
April 26, 2024
Name: Joseph Pierson
Pronouns: He/him/his
Majors: BA in English and Philosophy
Graduation Date: May 2022
Fellowship Award: Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program to Taiwan.
What are your current or future career plans? I will be attending Columbia Law School to pursue my interest in copyright & patent law and community service with child advocacy law while continuing to write and publish poetry and autofiction.
What did you enjoy most about the program? Despite my close to zero language proficiency, I have made lifelong friends with so many locals. I will be back in Taiwan next summer.
What was the most challenging aspect of the program? The most challenging aspect of the program has been overcoming the daily life dynamics. Everyone eats, drinks, and works around the world. The “how” within these activities is a distinction you should embrace. Integrating to standards is important but learning to live and be neighborly amongst cultural uncertainties is worthwhile!
What advice do you have for future applicants? Adaptability is referred to throughout the program for good reason by both executives and alumni. You cannot account for all cultural exchanges you will encounter and must be willing to embrace the inevitable discomfort until it becomes a wonderful custom to you. A strength recommended for any applicant would be to acknowledge your opportunity to be a guest within the country you will be applying to and be supportive of the outcomes that accompany this opportunity. It is imperative to remember that you are a representative of your country so express the respect that LMU has cultivated in you.
What would people be surprised to know about your experience? While in Taiwan, I learned how to catch fish with a slingshot, practiced Muay Thai, and became adept at tea farming and brewing.
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Learn more about the Fulbright ETA to Taiwan Program or contact ONIF.