Cultural Bridges: Akin’s Path to Confidence and Connection at ISU
Introduction
Meet Akin, a third-year student from Thailand, studying International Media and Entertainment Management at I-Shou University. His journey at ISU has been a transformative one, filled with opportunities for personal growth, cultural exchange, and leadership. Stepping out of his comfort zone, Akin has embraced every challenge with enthusiasm. His experiences have shaped him into a confident, open-minded individual who is passionate about fostering inclusivity and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.
The more you give, the more you receive. Good things will always come around, so focus on enjoying your time here. Have fun, try new things, and make memories
Choosing ISU: A Transformative Decision
For Akin, choosing ISU has been a life-changing experience. Coming from an Asian family, he understands the importance many parents place on language and cultural exposure. “My parents, being the best parents I could ever ask for, wanted me to move to a Chinese-speaking country so I could develop skills in this language. So here I am, in Taiwan, happier than ever,” he shared. Reflecting on his journey, he expresses gratitude for the independence, decision-making skills, and time management abilities he has developed—though he admits there is always room for improvement.
Joining Cultural Ambassador: A Journey Beyond Comfort Zones
Akin’s decision to join the Cultural Ambassador program stemmed from his desire to challenge himself, particularly in public speaking. “I’ve always been a shy person, and I saw this as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and grow,” he admitted. Through this role, he has gained confidence, enhanced his communication skills, and learned how to engage effectively with diverse audiences. The experience has been both transformative and deeply rewarding.
The Significance of "Mr. Congeniality"
Being recognized as “Mr. Congeniality” was a pivotal moment for Akin. “This title actually gave me my confidence. Receiving it on stage was a great achievement for me. In some ways, it showed me that I am really appreciated by people, that I’m actually loved and respected by many,” he said. This recognition serves as a continual source of motivation, reinforcing his commitment to fostering a welcoming and friendly environment at ISU.
Beyond the Interview: Broader Reflections
Aurielle’s journey is a vivid reminder that leadership and passion are not confined to a single role or industry. They are cultivated through varied experiences, from navigating cultural differences in a global team to creating personal connections over a shared love for coffee. Her story serves as an inspiration for those who dare to step out of their comfort zones and blend multiple passions into a cohesive, fulfilling career.
Her journey also reflects broader trends in today’s work environment, where cross-functional skills and cultural fluency are more valuable than ever. Whether you’re leading a team or brewing a perfect cup of coffee, the commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and genuine connection can transform every challenge into an opportunity for growth.
The Qualities Behind the Recognition
Akin attributes this achievement to his approachable nature, open-mindedness, and willingness to assist others. “I enjoy meeting new people, learning about their cultures, and making sure everyone feels included,” he explained. His ability to listen and empathize has also played a crucial role in strengthening the sense of community at ISU.
Fostering Cultural Understanding at ISU
Promoting cultural understanding, in Akin’s view, begins with openness, curiosity, and inclusivity. “I try to promote cultural understanding in the simplest way—by being open, friendly, and curious about others. Whether it’s through conversations, helping new students adjust, or participating in cultural events, I always try to create a welcoming space where everyone feels included,” he emphasized. He believes that small, thoughtful actions—such as introducing people to new friends or encouraging cultural exchange—can significantly enhance inclusivity at ISU.
Hosting Events: An Avenue for Growth
Akin has had the privilege of hosting two graduation ceremonies and a Cultural Ambassador event. His most memorable experience was hosting his first graduation ceremony, an opportunity that came unexpectedly. “Funny enough, I didn’t originally plan to do it—it was a favor for a friend who convinced me to help out. I agreed without thinking too much about it, but when the day came, I was really, really nervous because it was my first time hosting an event. Looking back, I’m really glad I did it,” he recalled.
Overcoming Unexpected Challenges
One of the most challenging moments in Akin’s hosting experience occurred during the Cultural Ambassador event when the event rundown unexpectedly changed. The pre-prepared PowerPoint slides no longer aligned with the order of performances, requiring quick improvisation. “For about five minutes, I had to improvise and keep the audience engaged while the team adjusted the slides. I quickly came up with a random Q&A session, asking the audience spontaneous questions and having casual conversations just to fill the time. I think I handled it pretty well, and thanks to that, we were able to continue the event smoothly,” he shared.
Advice for Incoming Students
Akin encourages new students to stay true to themselves rather than conforming to fit in. “Be yourself. Don’t try to change who you are just to fit in or to make people like you. If you’re meant to fit in, you will—it’ll happen naturally,” he advised. He also emphasizes the importance of giving, as kindness and effort are often reciprocated. “The more you give, the more you receive. Good things will always come around, so focus on enjoying your time here. Have fun, try new things, and make memories,” he added.
Conclusion
Akin’s journey at ISU has been defined by personal growth, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections. Being part of a diverse and supportive community has helped him become more confident and open-minded. To current and prospective students, he offers the encouragement to take bold steps, embrace challenges, and make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.
