On Saturday morning, September 5, the College of Management at National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) hosted its international exchange student welcome orientation, "Thriving at NSYSU: Academic Success & Global Leadership," at the Rayko Hall on the 11th floor of the university library. The event drew nearly 100 exchange students from 48 top partner universities across 20 countries and regions worldwide. Integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), traditional Taiwanese Indigenous cultural performances, academic integrity guidelines, and practical insights from alumni, the orientation offered international students an enriching and immersive introduction to local culture and student life.

Embracing Sustainable SDGs: A Green Orientation Highlighting Global Vision

In active alignment with sustainability and plastic-reduction goals, the College incorporated SDG principles directly into the event's preparation. Each exchange student received a custom welcome kit featuring a reusable water bottle and an eco-friendly utensil set. This initiative encourages students to minimize single-use plastics during their stay in Taiwan, demonstrating the College’s commitment to cultivating a sustainable campus.

The event kicked off with a powerful performance by the Zuyun Cultural Music and Dance Troupe, who showcased traditional Amis Harvest Festival songs and dances. While the Harvest Festival traditionally takes place between July and August, urban Indigenous celebrations often extend through October. The vibrant, warm performance offered international students an authentic taste of Taiwan’s local culture, drawing enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.

Pledging Academic Integrity & Building Cross-Cultural Team Dynamics

During his opening remarks, Dr. Timo Eccarius, Director of the International Relations and Accreditation Office (IRAO), warmly welcomed the students and outlined the academic expectations and standards of the university. He emphasized the core values of personal responsibility, teamwork, professional communication, and academic integrity, guiding all exchange students to sign an academic integrity pledge to foster a responsible learning mindset.

To prepare exchange students for multicultural teamwork, the College invited Ronnie Lee Nunez, an alumnus of the Master in Global Human Resource Management (GHRM MBA) program, to lead a series of team-building activities. Nunez designed engaging block-building games incorporating non-verbal communication and role-playing exercises. Through these interactive challenges, students gained hands-on experience in effective communication and task division, essential skills for success in future multinational group projects.

Alumni Network Unites to Ease Transition into Local Life

The welcome event received strong support from distinguished alumni and faculty members. Alongside Ronnie Lee Nunez, alumni  Duong Tuan Nguyen (Vietnamese), Mael Cannavo (France), Graham Dart (USA), Maya Algren (Turkmenistan), and Lin Hsin-Yu, Deputy Director of the IRAO and alumna of the IBMBA, were all present to support the students. They engaged in lively discussions, sharing personal insights from their academic journeys at NSYSU and practical tips for living in Kaohsiung. Their guidance helped the new exchange students feel fully supported as they transition into campus life and the local culture.

Enjoying Taiwanese Delicacies at Siwan Hall to Kick Off the New Semester

To conclude the event, faculty and students gathered at the 10th-floor Siwan College Plaza, enjoying carefully prepared Taiwanese refreshments and tea against a scenic ocean backdrop. Students mingled with peers from around the world in a warm, relaxed atmosphere. The College of Management at NSYSU stated that it will continue to foster a high-quality, internationalized learning environment, helping international students adapt smoothly to local life while cultivating global perspectives and cross-cultural leadership skills.