By Han Pham

Introduction

SLAM is a language exchange club at National Chengchi University (NCCU) that enhances campus life by promoting cultural integration and global friendships. With a dedication to inclusivity, SLAM bridges the cultural divide between international and local students, creating vibrant events and programs that inspire meaningful cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Attending the second SLAM MEET of this semester at the end of September, I had a chance to witness firsthand how SLAM's committee members engage worldwide students in a vibrant environment. So, for anyone looking to improve their language skills, make international friends, or transform their college journey, Let's discover whether SLAM is the perfect place to start.

▲ Logo of SLAM (photo credit: SLAM IG)

Building a Global Community
SLAM was founded with a heartfelt mission to build meaningful friendships between Taiwanese and international students, inspired by the founder’s experiences during a working holiday abroad. Jongsung Shin, a senior from South Korea studying at NCCU’s International College of Innovation (ICI), envisioned a club that fosters cross-cultural understanding and collaboration through engaging activities and a supportive community. The club, which connects native speakers and language learners, quickly became one of the most popular student organizations on campus. Its mission is simple but impactful: to provide students with a space to practice their language skills while engaging in meaningful cultural exchanges.

▲A vibrant mix of international and Taiwanese students gathered at JiYing Building for an exciting SLAM!MEET, forging new connections and celebrating cultural diversity.

SLAM’s vibrant debut at the club expo drew enthusiastic attention from students eager to participate, sparking a surge in membership and increasing event attendance. The club has since become a go-to destination for cultural exchange and language practice. Today, it continues to thrive as a dynamic space where friendships transcend borders, and students from all walks of life come together to learn, grow, and connect.

The purpose of each SLAM event is simple yet impactful: to bring together people from different departments and backgrounds, providing an opportunity to connect with local and international students. These events offer a comfortable space to practice and flex English and Chinese language skills, making communicating more manageable for everyone. SLAM also provides a platform for participants to make friends across the globe, creating opportunities to travel and meet new people. Most importantly, SLAM creates special memories throughout university life, leaving students with lasting connections and experiences.

Study Less, Achieve More

“SLAM means Study Less, Achieve More, and I think it really fits the club vibe...” shared Arvinbileg, the PR team leader, event host, and a senior from Mongolia studying at NCCU’s International College of Innovation (ICI). The name SLAM perfectly captures the vibrant and dynamic spirit of the club, setting it apart from traditional language exchange programs. According to Arvinbileg, unlike the conventional approach, SLAM takes an innovative path, where participants sit with prompts and focus on rote memorization or sentence creation. It inspires attendees to connect genuinely, encouraging natural conversations that improve language skills and foster lasting friendships. SLAM’s approach to language exchange goes beyond just learning a language—it emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange. By pairing local and international students, SLAM helps participants practice their language skills and better understand each other's cultural backgrounds. This laid-back environment encourages natural interactions, making it easier for participants to connect, learn, and build friendships without the pressure often associated with formal language learning settings.

▲NCCU students learning through fun activities that sparked creativity, laughter, and meaningful connections at the event.

Another committee team member, Laurence from the Business Administration Department, noted that: “As student life at the university, the study is important, but other skills are also significant that you can only learn from having fun, and that's something SLAM can bring to people, that the meaning of a whole name.” The club embodies a philosophy that goes beyond academics, reflecting the essence of student life at university. While studying is essential, SLAM emphasizes soft skills, such as communication and interpersonal understanding, which are equally valuable and can be learned through meaningful interactions and fun activities. By blending language practice with social engagement, SLAM brings its name to life, creating a space where students can grow, connect, and thrive.

How is The team turning Ideas into Memorable Events?

The SLAM team stands out as a dynamic and diverse group, uniting local Taiwanese and international students from various academic backgrounds. This blend of perspectives fuels creativity and innovation, with team members collaborating effectively in English to organize engaging language exchange events. SLAM operates well-structured, dividing responsibilities across departments such as General Administration (GA), Event and Planning (EP), Public Relations (PR), and even forward-thinking departments designed to address future needs. This clear division allows the team to manage its growing operations efficiently and ensure smooth execution of activities.

▲SLAM team members sharing their experiences and insights during a fascinating interview, reflecting on their journey and the club's impact.

Committee members are drawn to SLAM for its enriching opportunities. For many, it’s the chance to immerse themselves in an English-speaking environment, enhancing their language skills in a natural and supportive setting. SLAM also provides a platform to expand networks, connect with individuals from diverse cultures, and build meaningful cross-cultural friendships. Beyond personal growth, members are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a vibrant global community, making SLAM a space where learning, connection, and collaboration thrive.

Jongsung Shin shared a heartfelt reflection on his most memorable experience in SLAM. While he cherishes meeting people throughout the semester, the standout moment for him was the initiation of the SLAM English Camp. Seeing his vision materialize with the support of the first members was incredibly fulfilling. Watching local high school students enthusiastically participate in the camp was a pivotal moment that underscored the growth of SLAM and affirmed his decision to come to Taiwan.

SLAM! MEET

SLAM offers a variety of exciting cultural events designed to enhance students' experience at NCCU. These events include the SLAM! MEET gatherings, SLAM outings, and summer camps. These activities allow students to connect, discover new cultures, and create unforgettable memories, all contributing to the welcoming and diverse community SLAM promotes.

The second SLAM!MEET of this semester was hosted on 11/28. As soon as the event started, the SLAM team created a relaxed atmosphere where international and domestic students could comfortably converse in the language they wanted to practice. This laid-back environment encouraged natural interactions, making it easier for participants to connect, learn, and build friendships without the pressure often associated with formal language learning settings.

▲Students having a good ice-breaking time playing “Head, Shoulder, Butt, Cup"

For the beginning part, Ice-breaking games such as "Would You Rather?" and "Head, Shoulder, Butt, Cup" are designed to spark laughter, encourage creativity, and ease participants into comfortable interactions with one another. These lighthearted games break down barriers and build a sense of camaraderie, creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved.

In addition to fostering social bonds and more vocabulary learning, SLAM emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange and language practice through interactive language exchange games. Activities like "Guess Who" and "Categories" challenge participants to think independently, expand their vocabulary, and refine their communication skills in a fun and low-pressure environment. These games provide a platform for practicing new languages and allow members to explore cultural nuances, gain fresh perspectives, and appreciate the diversity within the group.

▲Unlike other academic clubs, SLAM creates a relaxed atmosphere where international and Taiwanese students can comfortably converse in the language they want to practice.

Currently attracting over 100 participants to each event, SLAM’s success speaks to its appeal and impact. However, the team envisions an even bigger and more inclusive community, welcoming students from all backgrounds to join and build lasting relationships. With plans to expand its reach and refine its organizational structure, SLAM aims to blend fun, education, and cultural exchange to build a sense of community that transcends borders and fosters mutual understanding, contributing to its mission of creating a truly global network of learners.

Looking Ahead

With the team’s passion and dedication, SLAM is excited to expand the club to other universities, as they believe this type of activity benefits every student and every campus. Jongsung shared that they have successfully launched SLAM NTU at National Taiwan University, and he was there to witness it, which is another milestone for the club. This achievement has motivated him to branch out even further, with plans to establish SLAM at more universities in Taipei and eventually in other cities of Taiwan as SLAM continues to grow.

For Jongsung, the experience of hosting these events was exhausting yet rewarding. Everyone worked tirelessly yet passionately to make the event successful. The camaraderie and joy shared during the camp profoundly impacted him, creating a sense of achievement far more significant than he had imagined.

Looking ahead, Jongsung has a big vision for the future. Before graduating, he wants to organize the largest event SLAM has ever had—one that will bring together a massive crowd at a spacious venue, like SiWei Tang, that can accommodate many people. He aims to create a fun and meaningful event where participants can genuinely enjoy their time, connect, and experience the value SLAM brings to university life.

Even after graduating, Jongsung wants to continue supporting and contributing to this community, keeping SLAM alive and thriving for future students. With the first members and our shared passion, he is confident that SLAMmake this dream a reality and leave a lasting impact on the university community.

SLAM’s upcoming event will bring the festive spirit alive with a Christmas-themed party that promises unforgettable moments. Building on the success of last year’s celebration—where participants dazzled in Christmas-themed outfits and immersed themselves in a warm, joyous atmosphere—the event will feature a lineup of exciting activities. Attendees can look forward to crafting their gingerbread houses, enjoying beer, engaging in fun games, singing their hearts at karaoke, and learning languages while connecting with friends worldwide. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season, experience diverse cultures, and make meaningful memories. Everyone is welcome to join and be part of this vibrant and inclusive holiday celebration!

Follow SLAM on Instagram to ensure you don’t miss all the information for upcoming events!