Chileans study abroad in Asia

By David Azócar

Postgraduate study in Asia not only opens up new possibilities in our specific area of expertise. It helps us to understand why the nations of the Pacific Rim have such an outstanding record of achievement in science and research. At least this is what three Chilean professionals had to say about the experience. All three decided to apply for scholarships and pursue their advanced studies in these faraway lands.

Studying in India, Japan and China would be an adventure and, possibly, even a rash decision for someone who does not know the true opportunities academic offered by the Asia-Pacific. Our three Chilean adventurers had distinct destinies, which led them to three separate countries: Sergio Carrasco (India); Ruby Valdivia (Japan); and Veronica Barrios (China).

"My experiences during my Ph.D. in Indian Philosophy and Thought, at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, were anything but shocking. India is a civilization that has managed to combine the finest aspects of Western education with its own ancient learning,” states Sergio Carrasco, who teaches at the Faculty of History, Universidad de Chile. Dr. Carrasco was awarded the Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarship in 1987. He compares the intellectual atmosphere, at one of India’s finest institutions of higher learning, “a club for thinkers” where students pay homage to academics.

Researcher Ruby Valdivia, who holds a doctorate from Japan’s illustrious Imperial University, currently works at the Universidad de Chile School of Dentistry. Dr. Valdivia applied for a scholarship (Monbukagakusho) offered by the Japanese Ministry of Education in 1991, and got it. "I was always attracted by the unknown that apply. This is why I applied for (to a PhD in Biomedical Science program) in a place as far away as Japan." Once arrived, Dr. Valdivia immediately noticed the huge demands placed on all PhD candidates in Japan. "Studying in Japan is unquestionably demanding. One must always demonstrate effort and a spirit of competition at all times. If not, you have no chance of meeting your goals; i.e., publishing scientific papers. This means that you lose respect and, consequently, any chance of receiving a doctorate. No matter how hard you try, and whether you are Japanese or not, everybody has to give 100%.”

Veronica Barrios, our last traveler, is coordinator of the Defense and International Affairs Advising Bureau here at the Library of Congress (BCN). Ms Barrientos was invited by the Taiwanese Foreign Ministry to complete economic development studies at the renowned Fu Hsing Kang Military Academy near Taipei. "What surprised me most was the high standards and hours spent in classes, studying and on extracurricular activities."

Good advice for studying in Asia

Our professionals came away with more than just degrees and a different perspective on Asia. They also have a wealth of anecdotes and know-how regarding daily life in Asian cultures.

"When you arrive to Japan, you must not seek to transform into a Japanese person. You must remain comfortable with your identity and remember the adage, ‘When in Rome…’. This is to say, respect and enjoy Japanese culture without imposing our own. Also, if you are invited to eat out, don’t speak too much. Praise the food, smile and mention entertaining things about your own country," advises Dr. Valdivia.

Sergio Carrasco makes an observation which may be helpful to academics deciding where to study in Asia. "The Indians have spoken excellent English for centuries and they certainly know how to make a foreigner feel at home.” English language training in Chile is, after all, more readily available than its Asian counterparts. One must prepare in Chile before leaving, so it may be most expedient to opt for English. Nowadays, though, more and more courses are offered in English. Life off campus may remain another story.

Our senior foreign affairs analyst, Veronica Barrios, unconditionally recommends study in Asia. "(Living in Chinese society) was a truly rewarding experience. If you study abroad you will be living an experience that few enjoy. Thanks to my overseas studies, I was able to work in Asian affairs. The experience gave me a unique reference point in the field, in fact. Anyone who studies abroad will gain this… and maybe more.”