Feng Chia University’s Ching‑Chuan Chen and Wan‑Ting Hsieh Participate in the MACHI STEM Women Scientist Program at Rice University in the United States.

During her tenure as Director of the Science Division at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston in 2021, Hui‑Kuang Yu, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs at Feng Chia University, collaborated with Prof. Junichiro Kono of Rice University to expand the original U.S.–Japan TOMODACHI STEM Program to include Taiwan. Through this partnership, five outstanding female university students from Taiwan are selected each year to join the MACHI STEM Program, forming the combined TOMODACHI‑MACHI STEM Program, aimed at cultivating future female leaders in science and engineering.

In 2023, Dean Yu successfully secured two program slots specifically for Feng Chia University students. The initiative received generous sponsorship from alumni Shih‑Hsiu Chen and his spouse, as well as Ming‑Tun Chen and his spouse, who each donated USD 5,000 in scholarships to support the participating students’ academic and research pursuits in STEM fields.

The two prestigious positions were awarded to Ching‑Chuan Chen, a senior student from the Department of Computer Science, and Wan‑Ting Hsieh, a senior student from the Department of Mechanical and Computer‑Aided Engineering. From February 11 to March 15, they completed a five‑week research internship at Rice University, and on April 15, they delivered a presentation sharing their research projects, extracurricular experiences, and personal insights from living and studying in the United States.

During the sharing session, the two students also provided valuable advice for future applicants—covering application preparation, interview strategies, and pre‑departure arrangements. Their experiences inspired fellow students to explore international research opportunities, broaden their global perspective, and actively participate in the next round of program selections.

Wan‑Ting Hsieh (center) is pictured with President Wang, Wei (second from left), Dean Hui‑Kuang Yu (far left), alumnus Shih‑Hsiu Chen (second from right), and Dean Chi‑Chang Wang (far right).

Throughout the five‑week internship, both students worked closely with Rice University professors and research teams, contributing to ongoing scientific projects. Their experience not only strengthened their research capabilities but also deepened their understanding of the U.S. higher education system. They made meaningful connections with scholars and peers from different countries, laying a strong foundation for future academic and professional development.

Wan‑Ting Hsieh, a senior from the Department of Mechanical and Computer‑Aided Engineering, shares her experience during the session.

At the event, President Wang, Wei encouraged students to seize the many international exchange opportunities and funding programs offered by Feng Chia University, emphasizing that cultivating globally‑minded talent is a core mission of the University.

The success of the MACHI STEM Program showcases the outstanding achievements of Taiwanese female university students in STEM fields and highlights their growing influence and potential within global scientific communities. It also represents an important milestone in advancing gender diversity and excellence in science and technology.