【GMBA】R14 Mentee Gathering with Director Bryan Jean

國際事務室暨GMBA辦公室

撰文者／GMBA學生 – Kai Lin林愷

GMBA Director Bryan hosted a dinner gathering for new R14 students at Baxian BBQ (八仙碳烤), located across from Da’an Forest Park. The restaurant’s semi-outdoor tent area with communal tables allowed students to move around and talk with different groups throughout the night. The setup worked well for mixing as students weren’t stuck in one spot and could easily join different conversations.

The main goal was to give students a chance to talk directly with Director Bryan outside of class. He spent the evening moving between tables, asking students about how they were settling in, what they thought of their courses so far, and if they were running into any problems with the program. Students appreciated being able to share feedback and suggestions in a casual setting rather than a formal academic meeting.

The food was standard Taiwanese BBQ fare. The restaurant served grilled meats including beef and chicken, stir-fried vegetables like asparagus, seafood dishes with clams, fried rice, and stinky tofu for those willing to try it. Everything came with Taiwan Beer. Students with dietary restrictions were accommodated for.

As the attendees ate and drank, conversations ranged from comparing experiences in different countries to discussing career plans and adjusting to life in Taipei. International students swapped stories about culture shock moments, while local students offered restaurant recommendations and weekend activity ideas. The relaxed atmosphere made it easier for students who hadn’t talked much in class to get to know each other.

The event served its purpose: students got names to the faces they hadn’t met already, began initial connections with classmates, and had direct access to program leadership. These sorts of informal gatherings help break the ice early in the semester and makes it easier for students to reach out to each other and faculty going forward.