Fulbright Scholar Dr. Chien-Yao Sun guest lectures at Ivy Tech Indianapolis

Ivy Tech Community College’s Indianapolis campus welcomed its first-ever Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Chien-Yao Sun, for a guest lecture titled “A Physician Scientist's Fulbright Journey: From Island Roots to Global Connections,” on February 24.

Dr. Sun, an assistant professor in biomedical sciences at National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan and a current Fulbright Scholar hosted by the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), shared his inspiring career journey and insights on global health challenges with Ivy Tech students, faculty, and staff.

The event, held in the Conference Center and Culinary Institute (CCCI), was a milestone for Ivy Tech Indianapolis, marking its inaugural hosting of a Fulbright Visiting Scholar. Dr. Sun’s visit was made possible through a partnership with Indiana University’s Department of Medicine and Ivy Tech’s Schools of Health Sciences and Nursing, highlighting the College’s commitment to fostering global connections and academic excellence.

A Journey from Taiwan to Global Impact

Dr. Sun’s lecture focused on his career path, from his early days as a medical student in Taiwan to his current role as a physician-scientist addressing global health challenges. Born and raised in Taiwan, Dr. Sun graduated from medical school in 2001 and completed his residency in internal medicine, specializing in nephrology (kidney medicine) and geriatric medicine. Over the years, he balanced clinical practice, teaching, and research, eventually becoming an assistant professor and contributing to advancements in biomedical sciences.

During his talk, Dr. Sun emphasized the importance of perseverance and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. He shared how he applied twice for the Fulbright Scholarship before being selected, underscoring the value of persistence and preparation. 

“Failure is not the end,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to learn and grow.”

Dr. Sun also highlighted the cultural and historical context of Taiwan, describing it as a blend of Eastern and Western influences. He spoke proudly of Taiwan’s achievements, from its world-renowned semiconductor industry to its national health insurance system, while also addressing the complexities of its geopolitical situation.

Inspiring Students to Dream Big

Dr. Sun’s visit was not just a lecture but an opportunity for Ivy Tech students to connect with a global leader in biomedical sciences. His story resonated with students, particularly those in health sciences, international relations, or making a difference in the world primarily as he shared his experiences navigating the challenges of medical school, residency, and a demanding career.

“Take it one day at a time and build your foundation,” Dr. Sun advised students. “Embrace failure as your teacher, not your undertaker. Seek resources, share your dreams, and don’t be afraid to reach out to mentors and professors for guidance.”

The lecture was attended by students in Gerald Maki’s English 111: English Composition class, which is themed around “Global Selves.” The event was also broadcast virtually via Zoom, allowing students from other Ivy Tech campuses and classes to participate.

A Unique Perspective: Bridging Science and Medicine

Dr. Maria del Carmen Paniagua, an Ivy Tech Indianapolis mathematics professor and Fulbright Scholar herself, attended the lecture and shared her thoughts on the significance of Dr. Sun’s visit. 

“A physician-scientist like Dr. Chien-Yao Sun has a unique role in bridging the gap between clinical practice and cutting-edge research, and that alone is a very motivating and engaging topic,” she said.

For Ivy Tech students pursuing careers in healthcare, biomedical fields, or even those uncertain about their career paths, Dr. Sun’s dual expertise offers a compelling perspective. 

“Hearing from someone who works in both the laboratory and the clinic can help students see the real-world applications of their studies,” Dr. Paniagua noted. “It demonstrates how science and medicine are not just abstract concepts but can directly impact human lives.”

Enriching the Academic Community Through Fulbright Exchanges

As a Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Paniagua emphasized the value of such exchanges in enriching the academic community. 

“This kind of exchange can open Ivy Tech students’ minds to global research trends, cutting-edge healthcare practices, and interdisciplinary approaches,” she said. “Dr. Sun’s conversation could resonate with students who are looking for inspiration or guidance on how to integrate various fields, like science and healthcare.”

Through his personal stories, research experiences, and practical examples, Dr. Sun demonstrated the direct impact of education on solving real-world problems. 

“His visit will hopefully spark curiosity and motivate students to explore careers they perhaps never considered before,” Dr. Paniagua observed.

Fulbright exchanges like this one also have the potential to inspire new teaching strategies, collaborative research ideas, and opportunities to incorporate a more global perspective into the Ivy Tech curriculum. 

“These exchanges create an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives, and students are empowered to see the world through a more informed cultural lens,” Dr. Paniagua concluded.

A Foundation for Future Fulbright Opportunities

Dr. Sun’s visit not only offered students a unique learning opportunity but also inspired them to explore the vast possibilities for their future.

Dr. Leslie Bozeman, director of curriculum internationalization at Indiana University Indianapolis and president of the Indiana Chapter of the Fulbright Association, also participated in the event. She encouraged students to consider applying for Fulbright opportunities in the future, emphasizing the importance of starting early and building strong relationships with mentors.

“Fulbright is not for people who look a certain way or study certain things,” Dr. Bozeman said. “It’s for people like you who want to make an impact on the world.”