So I'm 2 weeks in, and I've had a bit more time for introspection and/or talking to friends about my experience. The conclusion that I've come to is that I'm so grateful and happy to be in Taipei, not least because of the various obstacles that I've overcome (along with the help of a few wonderful friends). Being at Yale is of course wonderful, but sometimes, it is a bit more sheltered than the real world. After Freshman year, there were fewer challenges and everything became comfortable. And I became complacent. I also became less sure of my own opinions and needs.
I was at first really annoyed that ICLP was not like Duke or PIB or HBA in that they did not provide housing and the students didn't live together. But not living together on campus, eating always in the cafeteria, and basically doing Yale life in China has been a boon. With all of the extra freedom of living somewhere in Taipei, I have been able to explore the city, eat more interesting things, have some strange adventures, and make a great roommate friend - all things that I would have missed out on had ICLP's structure been different. I also just feel so accomplished for having done some basic things, like getting a cell phone, or finding a place to live. These were challenges, because of the language barrier.
Being away from America in a foreign land, having to make my own decisions and living on my own have all helped me to regain the belief that I can do things. And that I am a capable human being. And that is sweeter than any mango. (even though the mangoes here are just freaking awesome)
So yea. I'm loving Taipei.
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