Why did you choose this particular country?
I have long been interested in East Asia and have continued this during my time at Georgetown, while adding in the cybersecurity studies aspect. I chose Taiwan for this research trip due to its high volume of cyberattacks, many of which originate from its mainland neighbor. Aside from its geopolitical position, Taiwan’s shared language with mainland China makes its networks a somewhat softer target for intrusions. As a result, Taiwan has sometimes been described as a ‘testing ground’ for cyberattacks.
How will this experience help you in your job search and career?
Organizing this research trip and overcoming the challenge of arranging meetings in an unfamiliar country in a fixed timeline was itself a valuable experience. Aside from the specific research that this trip facilitated, the individuals that I met with during my time in Taipei were both knowledgeable and incredibly hospitable. This trip allowed me to make lasting relationships with many of these scholars that will continue to support my research in this field.
What are two interesting things about Taiwan that the average person doesn’t know?
Taipei is a terrific destination for any culinary adventurer. Due to its history, Taipei is home to cuisines from all corners of mainland China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and elsewhere. Taiwanese generally take great pride in the quality and variety of their cuisine, which can be best enjoyed at one of Taipei’s many night markets.
Taiwan’s National Palace Museum holds the world’s largest collection of Chinese antiquities, including nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese calligraphy, painting, porcelain, jade carvings, and bronzeworks. Much of this impressive collection was evacuated and relocated twice—once during the Second Sino-Japanese War and again in 1948 as the Chinese Civil War pushed the Nationalists from mainland China.