Jesand López Cruz, from Mexico, earned his International Master’s in Business Administration (IMBA) from Taiwan Tech in 2021, receiving a Taiwan Government Scholarship. Prior to pursuing his master’s degree, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering and gained experience working in the field of cybersecurity in Mexico and Belize. He currently serves as a Senior Security Analyst at SHL Medical in Taoyuan, Taiwan, where he focuses on enhancing cybersecurity measures and leads initiatives to evaluate and improve security protocols.

Educational Background and Motivation for Studying in Taiwan

I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Taiwan for several reasons. First, Taiwan is known for its strong academic programs, especially in technology, which align perfectly with my career goals in cybersecurity. While exploring my options, I had the opportunity to connect with several Taiwanese students. Their dedication and drive to succeed academically and professionally really resonated with me.

As I looked into different schools, Taiwan Tech stood out as the best fit. The flexible course structure allowed me to take classes from various programs and colleges, enabling me to blend management with technical subjects, particularly in computer security. This interdisciplinary approach was crucial for developing both my management and technical skills. Although I received suggestions to apply to apply to other top-ranking universities in Taiwan, the unique offerings at Taiwan Tech, along with the chance to customize my curriculum to combine technology and business, made my decision clear.

Additionally, I have a personal connection to Taiwan—my girlfriend, who is now my wife, is Taiwanese. This relationship reinforced my belief that Taiwan would be the perfect place for me to deepen my knowledge, immerse myself in a new culture, and broaden my global perspective.

Adapting to Life and Study in Taiwan

When I first arrived in Taiwan, I faced a variety of cultural differences, particularly the language barrier and social customs. To help myself adapt, I learned some basic Mandarin, which made it easier to connect with the locals. I also made a point to observe and respect local traditions while participating in cultural activities organized by Taiwan Tech. These experiences not only helped me integrate into the community but also increased my appreciation for Taiwanese culture.

One of the highlights of my time here has been forming friendships with Taiwanese students, many of whom I still consider close friends today. They welcomed me into their projects, even when my language skills were still developing. In one memorable collaboration, my classmates shared their management expertise in finance while I contributed my tech skills, leading to great results. This teamwork also opened doors for me to work with a professor in the Fintech field, which ultimately inspired my thesis on cybersecurity in that industry.

Overall, these experiences and the challenges I faced along the way have significantly enhanced my cultural sensitivity, enriching both my personal life and academic journey in Taiwan.

Career Path and Professional Growth

Before I graduated, I wanted to get a head start on my career, so I reached out to a professor who could help me integrate my cybersecurity work into my thesis. Although he wasn't a specialist in that area, he went out of his way to connect me with colleagues at other universities in Taiwan to ensure my project aligned with my MBA focus on fintech and digital banking. This proactive approach really set the stage for my career, and I was fortunate to have my girlfriend—now my wife—supporting me with tips on landing a job in Taiwan.

When I attended job fairs, I quickly realized that many positions required Mandarin proficiency, which was a hurdle for me. So, I decided to target international companies that were more open to hiring foreign talent. I tailored my CV for each application to highlight how my skills matched their requirements. I found my job at SHL Medical, a world-leading provider of cutting-edge medical devices like autoinjectors and pen injectors, through LinkedIn, applying about a month before I graduated. After a month of communication with HR, I received a job offer two months later. My experience taught me that while knowing Mandarin helps, you don’t need to be fluent to succeed; a basic understanding is often enough to connect with colleagues.

Maximizing Opportunities for Students and Foreign Graduates in Taiwan

These connections can open up exciting learning opportunities and make your experience much richer. Don’t just settle for the easy classes—challenge yourself and take the time to dive deeper into subjects beyond what’s covered in lectures. Setting clear personal and career goals is really important because Taiwan has tons of opportunities for those who are proactive and adaptable. Take advantage of the resources around you, and try to find internships or projects that give you hands-on experience, something employers really value.

For foreign grads looking to break into the job market in Taiwan, staying committed and being persistent are essential. It’s important to really think about your goals, stay consistent, and stay open to challenges along the way. When it comes to applying for jobs, make sure to tailor your CV to show off your unique skills and experiences. International companies can be a good fit since they’re often more open to hiring foreign talent. If you’ve got work experience under your belt, use that to your advantage.

But if you’re just starting out, internships and projects during your studies can help you gain that practical experience that’ll make you stand out. Taiwan is full of opportunities, so putting in the effort to prepare and adapt will definitely help you succeed.

Looking Ahead: A Life Rooted in Taiwan

My life and career are now rooted in Taiwan, and I’m not considering returning to Mexico anytime soon. I’ve adapted to the culture, built a family here, and developed a career that aligns with Taiwan’s technological advancements. For anyone considering a long-term stay, I’d advise being open-minded, setting clear goals, and fully immersing yourself in the opportunities Taiwan has to offer. Taiwan has provided me with a pathway to reach my goals, and I’m grateful for it.