Taiwan University Offers 'Mid-Term Break' for Students to Explore Careers

National Taiwan University (NTU) has introduced an innovative "Exploration Learning Plan" that allows undergraduate students to take an extended "half-time break" from their academic coursework for up to four semesters. This program enables students to pause their studies without formally withdrawing, maintaining their student status while pursuing diverse experiences.

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You are given a space to bravely become yourself.

During this exploration period, students can engage in a variety of activities, including internships at companies, social practice projects, artistic creation, research, or volunteer services. The program is designed to be cost-effective, requiring students to pay only a single credit fee, which can be recognized as two credits. This semester, 53 students have embraced this opportunity to step outside the traditional academic structure and chart their own courses.

Past participants have utilized the program in unique ways. For instance, a student from the Department of Synthesis and Broadcasting became the sole Taiwanese representative in an international drum corps, participating in training and tours in the United States. Another student from the Department of Psychology explored magic performance creation, developing a condensed version of a work for a future arts festival. Medical students have joined research teams, aiming to integrate research methodologies into their future clinical practices.

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Exploration learning is a very distinctive system at NTU. We expect students not only to pursue academic achievements but also to bravely step out of the classroom.

Since its inception five years ago, the Exploration Learning Plan has seen 262 student participations. NTU emphasizes that the program encourages students to look beyond academic grades and bravely venture into corporate, non-profit, and international arenas. With the support of faculty, peers, and university resources, students are guided to discover their personal learning momentum and life direction.

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explore in corporate, non-profit organizations, and international fields, and find their own learning momentum and life direction through the companionship of teachers, peer exchange, and the connection of school and external resources.