Vincent, an American overseas student doing some research in Taiwan, couldn’t believe his luck. His once dreaded thought of heading over to a small island somewhere in the western Pacific Ocean was a blessing in disguise.
Apparently, Ang, his Taiwanese room mate, owns a video rental store, strangely named Taiwan Office, just a few houses from their apartment. Ang’s encyclopedic knowledge on Chinese pop culture and Vincent’s love on Chinese wuxia films made them close friends. So close, that Ang gave Vincent free access on watching all of the Chinese martial arts films in the video rental store, whenever he chose to.
To augment his expenses, Vincent worked part time as an English teacher. To his surprise, Taiwanese people happen to be very receptive and smart individuals genuinely having a passion on learning a language, in that he soon found himself juggling his time from the many students he had acquired. Ang, noticing how his wuxia-warrior of a friend seems to be in trouble, even with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon showing on TV, offered his services again. By converting a small space of the Taiwan Office into an actual office, Vincent now had the space to teach his many students at the same time.
Vincent, who wanted to show how grateful he is to his friend, had a plan. One normal day, after a typical English session in the Taiwan Office, Vincent led Shu Lien, one of her bright, if not beautiful students, into the video rental store. Ang, uncomfortably quiet with having a cute woman in front of him, seemed to duck in the comfort of his store counter. With Vincent smiling, he left the cute girl and his geeky friend alone.
Shu Lien decided to break the uncomfortable silence. Taking a deep breath, she said, “Would you like to have some milk tea? There’s a new store just around the corner. I’d enjoy it if you’ll come with me.” Saying her short piece, confidently and with the kind of grace that only cute girls can accomplish, Shu Lien made a big smile.
Ang, not believing on what he saw or heard, could only nod in agreement. Seeing the two then future lovers get some bubble tea, Vincent smiled, turned off the lights and locked the door of the Taiwan Office.
Teaching English in Taiwan, just like what Vincent discovered can be not only profitable, but culturally rewarding as well. Breaking down the communication barrier, and bridging the gap between two cultures, teaching English in Taiwan can be the best decision you’ll ever make. Check online on how you can apply for an English teaching job in Taiwan. Who knows, you just might have your own Taiwan Office!