Cathlene Roi Jose from the Philippines holds a Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of the Philippines-Diliman. In 2023, she earned her Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering from Taiwan Tech, supported by the Taiwan Tech Scholarship for international students. She now works as a Research & Development and Technical Service Engineer at Freudenberg Performance Materials in Taoyuan, Taiwan.

Educational Background and Motivation for Studying in Taiwan

During my Bachelor’s degree, I began working with nanomaterials, particularly on piezoelectric nanogenerators. It was at this time that I was introduced to these special technologies, capable of not only powering electronic devices but also acting as sensors without the need for an external electricity source. The concept of these technologies resonated deeply with me, especially as someone from Tacloban City, a coastal city in the Philippines that faces frequent power interruptions due to natural disasters and supply issues. This experience motivated me to explore the field further leading me to apply for an internship in Taiwan.

Through this internship, I discovered Taiwan Tech’s Polymer Nanocomposites Lab, which aligned perfectly with my interest in nanogenerators and actively supported my exploration. Professor Chang-Mou Wu welcomed me and offered me the chance to pursue a Master's degree at Taiwan Tech, where I continued my studies in Materials Science and Engineering, with special focus on developing advanced triboelectric nanogenerators. With Professor Wu's guidance and support, I successfully published my research in well-regarded journals such as Nano Energy and Advanced Functional Materials.

Adapting to Life and Study in Taiwan

Adapting to life in Taiwan wasn’t really difficult for me. I believe that as long as you’re open to learning, hearing other people's perspectives, and seeking help when necessary, the experience can be quite smooth. I got to know people from various cultures—India, Ethiopia, Japan, Indonesia, and of course, many Taiwanese locals. It was really fun and eye-opening to share our different backgrounds and learn from one another. The culture in Taiwan Tech was also incredibly supportive, allowing me the freedom to make my own decisions and explore my field of nanogenerators, which enriched my studies even further.

However, I did face some challenges. Being Filipino, I found myself missing the close-knit, family-oriented community back home. Although I wished I had more of that familiar support, I realized that part of the international student experience is mingling with different cultures. It took a little time, but I eventually found my place within the diverse community at Taiwan Tech. The journey was worthwhile, and I am grateful for the experiences that came with it.

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Career Path and Professional Growth

I decided to build my career in Taiwan because of its reputation as a hub of technology and innovation, offering extensive opportunities in industry and expertise. After graduation, I started as a Research & Development and Technical Service Engineer at Freudenberg Performance Materials, a global leader in non-woven textiles from Germany with offices worldwide.

Since joining Freudenberg, I've been involved in training to enhance my understanding of our technology and to identify areas where we can innovate and improve. The textile industry is quite traditional, so I believe my background brings a fresh perspective that’s beneficial to our projects. Currently, I’m part of the New Business Development Team, where I explore new markets and work on innovative applications for our textiles. Working at Freudenberg has been a good experience; the team is really supportive, and the company genuinely values the different perspectives that international employees bring. This friendly environment has helped me settle into my role well, and I appreciate the opportunities for growth and learning in this field.

Building Connections and Careers in Taiwan

For students aiming to build a future in Taiwan, being open to conversations with professors and peers is essential. Professors provide not only academic insights but also valuable industry connections that can enhance both research and personal growth. Engaging with labmates and classmates often reveals shared interests, from humanitarian work to other passions, leading to meaningful collaborations. I also believe that integrating research with personal projects adds a unique value, as this approach can make your academic journey even more rewarding and impactful. All of this can open doors to future opportunities, whether it’s internships, projects, or getting involved in local communities.

As you start thinking about your next steps, it’s a good idea to begin preparing early for life after graduation. While you are working on your thesis, take some time to identify the companies and industries you are interested in. The more experience and knowledge you gather, the better prepared you’ll be for job opportunities. Competitions and conferences are also great ways to get your name out there, build connections, and grow both personally and professionally. No matter where you are on your journey, it’s important to identify and highlight what sets you apart. We all have to start somewhere, but having a clear sense of what makes us unique can help us stand out in the job market and in our practice.

Embracing Opportunities as an International Student

For Filipinos and the smaller student populations at Taiwan Tech or other universities, it’s crucial to seize opportunities as they arise. This is often the first step toward making an impact. In my case, I’m the first woman and the youngest person in my production site, as well as one of the two foreign workers. My colleagues are still getting used to having someone with my background on the team, and we’re all learning how to work together effectively. That’s why it’s so important to show up, give it your best, and show what can be achieved. Doing so not only helps others see the value of diverse perspectives but also encourages them to make space for different voices in the workplace.