As a Chinese student who has studied in Taiwan for eight years, I decided to pick up my camera to document the real lives of what may be the final cohort of mainland Chinese students studying in Taiwan. This film is not only a personal reflection but also a chronicle of a historical moment. Through the lens, I aim to reveal the human stories behind policy shifts, portraying the bittersweet reality of young people pursuing education far from home.
The film centers on three main subjects. Through these three narratives—each at a different stage and circumstance—the film illustrates the shared predicaments of mainland students in Taiwan: academic pressure, identity anxiety, policy restrictions, and uncertainty about the future. Each story is unique, yet together they reflect the collective fate of the "last generation" of mainland Chinese students.The “Three Restrictions and Six Noes” policy places mainland students in a marginalized position in Taiwan: we are not allowed to work, apply for scholarships, or seek employment locally. These limitations not only result in financial strain but also generate deep confusion over identity and belonging.
Despite the systemic challenges, the warmth of human connection within Taiwanese society has remained a vital source of support for us. The film captures numerous touching moments: the kind concern of a truck driver nicknamed A-Bei, the heartfelt assistance from a docent grandmother at the National Palace Museum, and the mutual support among classmates and friends. These details reveal a different side of Taiwanese society and underscore why many of us choose to stay here despite the odds.
Maybe the Last Mainland Students in Taiwan is not only a coming-of-age record for its three protagonists but also a time capsule of a disappearing era. As cross-strait relations continue to evolve, the future of mainland student policies remains uncertain. Our generation may indeed become a part of history, but our experiences and emotions will stand as a vital testament in the narrative of cross-strait educational exchange.
Through this film, I hope to raise broader awareness of the true conditions facing mainland Chinese students in Taiwan, and to deepen understanding of how policy changes can profoundly affect individual lives.