On a vibrant weekend, Ming Chi University of Technology hosted the "Welcome to My Home!" event. Centered on cross-cultural exchange, the event provided a platform for interaction between local and international students. Local students took on the role of enthusiastic hosts, inviting international students to their hometowns to experience the customs and traditions of Taiwanese family life. The program featured a one-on-one pairing model, with each team consisting of one local and one international student, forming a total of seven teams for this in-depth cultural exploration journey. The participating international students hailed from Switzerland, France, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, while the local students welcomed them with open arms, showcasing Taiwan’s unique family culture and daily lifestyle.

During the event, local and international students partnered to explore the richness and diversity of Taiwanese culture. Local students hosted their international peers, leading them through daily family routines, sharing traditional cuisine, and offering insights into Taiwan’s cultural heritage. Through face-to-face interactions, participants learned about hospitality, etiquette and ways to respect diverse cultural lifestyles, fostering deeper understanding and friendships.

International student shared, “Interacting with the local family gave me a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture. It was an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.” A local student also expressed, “Introducing my hometown to international friends was a unique and fulfilling experience, allowing me to see my culture from a fresh perspective.”

The local students involved in this activity generally believe that it enhanced their cross-cultural understanding and communication skills. Through English interaction, their language abilities also improved. Additionally, the close engagement broadened their global outlook and cultivated greater inclusivity towards different cultures. The international students, on the other hand, remarked that the event helped them make many Taiwanese friends and provided them with a meaningful immersion into Taiwan’s family lifestyle. They deeply appreciated the warmth and hospitality, which further enriched their understanding of Taiwanese culture.

Dr. Chieh-Lan Lee, Director of the Office of International Affairs, stated that the "Welcome to My Home!" event is not only an essential platform for cultural exchange but also a testament to Ming Chi University of Technology’s commitment to fostering campus internationalization. This program successfully strengthened cross-cultural understanding and connections among students, becoming a highlight of the university’s internationalization efforts.

中文：用心感受台灣！明志科技大學假日接待家庭計畫「Welcome to My Home!」帶你體驗不一樣的週末
This article is simultaneously published in the 18th edition of the SDGs E-paper.