Jack's Exchange to City University | Hong Kong
Writing this testimonial just over a week before I leave to come back home and it’s a bitter sweet feeling of looking forward to seeing my family and friends but also sadness in leaving the dozens of people I’ve met here. But wow, that was four of the best months I have ever spent. Studying abroad in Hong Kong has been an absolute joy for me. I’ve learnt about so many different cultures and have truly experienced what life is like in a big city. Obviously the perks of adding it to your resume, travelling and challenging yourself are all apparent though it’s really the people you meet abroad that makes the experience so worthwhile. I’ve expanded my personal network of friends to over half of Europe, Asia and America haha! I will always remember them. It has really made accommodation cheaper for when I decide to travel again ha!
City University is a nice university and I’ve found the teaching staff to be of high calibre. Although the people of Hong Kong can at first seem shy almost rude you soon find that all it takes is a hello to break the ice. I was fortunate enough to be here during a historical political movement where thousands of people took to the streets of Hong Kong and protested for universal suffrage and increased democratic rights. All the while I was writing essays on the Chinese model of governance, political philosophy and the ideal of democracy. It really showed me firsthand the power of ideas and the importance of studying them.
It’s been a rewarding experience for me being able to see what life is like not only in a huge city like Hong Kong but also living out of my family home for the first time. Although I was independent before I feel more capable and confident in being able to tackle bigger challenges on my own. Hikes, beach days, boat parties, travel into both China and the Philippines is just a short list of the things I’ve done here. Saying yes to every opportunity has allowed me to experience so much. The exchange programme has opened my eyes to life outside of Perth and I know it will only continue to benefit me in all aspects of life now and in the future. As someone with introverted tendencies, this trip has definitely changed me into a more open and outgoing person.
Professionally there is no doubt in my mind that a semester studied abroad especially to a place like Hong Kong will be highly regarded by prospective employers. I’m glad I took exchange to Hong Kong it is not just a replica of my common surroundings or a party town, it was a real mix of different cultures in a hybrid east meets west city where language was not always an easily crossed divide. Also the food can be a real shock as canteen diets may not be a recommended lifestyle haha, eating out often, drinking with friends and cooking with them in the common areas is a must. Challenge yourself on exchange you’ll only benefit from doing so, but also have fun, let loose and enjoy the ride! Peace
- Jack studied abroad at City University in Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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