Zubayr's Exchange to University of Hong Kong | Hong Kong
I chose to study abroad at the University of Hong Kong in Semester 1, 2015. What an extraordinary journey I would embark on! Hong Kong is a sprawling metropolis, the charming meeting point between East and West, and the gateway to Asia.
Study
As you may know China is Australia’s largest trading partner. The government recently signed the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAfta), meaning most goods and services between the countries enter tariff free. Many employers in Australia are involved in business with China and place high value on students with experience and interest in Asia. You have the opportunity to learn Mandarin and Cantonese, as well as practice your skills with locals. Classes are fun and interactive, with emphasis on groupwork and collaboration. It was an incredible experience learning from students with differing viewpoints and experiences. HKU has an excellent teaching staff, many are graduates of Ivy League universities and Oxbridge, and bring a global perspective to the subjects they teach. The campus is state-of-the art with large glass buildings, Apple Macs, and levels of learning hubs, many of the buildings have up to 15 floors! All units are taught in English, and there is a cosmopolitan flavour to the campus. I made lifelong friends with lecturers, locals and exchange students from all over the world! At the beginning of semester there are a range of actvities, hikes and parties to immerse you in the culture.
Accommodation
I chose to stay in a university college called Swire Hall. The hall was on campus which turned out to be very convenient. In general, accommodation is expensive in Hong Kong, but for students, living in halls is by far the cheapest option you will find anywhere. In most of the colleges you have to share a room, and it can be great personal experience as you get to connect with someone from a different culture and build a lasting friendship. Hall life is different to colleges in other countries. There are plenty of activities and sports and a big sense of community and spirit. I became involved in the Athletics team and play production for my hall. There are also special hall dinners where prominent Hong Kong people are invited as guest speakers. My advice is to get involved because there are so many opportunities to make friends!
Food
Hong Kong is a paradise when it comes to food! Dim Sum is king though, and you can find the delicacy at any hour, which can be particularly useful come exam time! With so many cultures present, food is diverse and interesting. Shanghai style and Sichuan style are also a favourite. Be sure to try the famous Hong Kong egg tarts. If you are around during Chinese New Year, HKU holds a number of events for exchange students to enjoy local dishes. HKU also has many canteens serving cheap, delicious food for students on campus. Breakfasts may differ to Australian tastes, noodles or rice for breakfast is an interesting twist which I had to get used to! My advice is to try everything, you may be pleasantly surprised at how delicious the foods is.
Nightlife
Hong Kong is famed for its nightlife. The main clubbing, restaurant and bar areas are in Lan Kwai Fong and Wan Chai close to the city centre. HKU has its own underground train stop and is very close to the city. Hordes of students, city workers and expats descend from the surrounding skyscrapers to welcome in the weekend. Many fun nights were had with friends. Also, heading out is a great way to meet expats and locals if you are thinking of working in Hong Kong. For those not up for the “fast life” Kennedy Town is walking distance form HKU and features a mix of small bars and restaurants serving Eastern and Western food. It was definitely my favourite hangout, and has a real hipster feel. Food and drink is generally cheaper in Hong Kong but prices can vary dramatically, expect to pay exorbitant prices at high-end clubs and Western style restaurants. Tasty Chinese food is high quality and very cheap!
Travel
I was able to travel all over Asia on my exchange. There are plenty of flight specials with Hong Kong based Cathay Pacific. Every Tuesday at 8am there is a fanfare with discounted return flights around Asia returning to Hong Kong. These are the cheapest flights you will find anywhere, be sure to wake up early every Tuesday! I went to Tokyo, Taiwan, Beijing, Shanghai and the Philippines during the university breaks, which were all magnificent, scenic experiences and very cheap.
Activities
During March the world famous Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Tournament is held in Hong Kong. I managed to attend the event which ended up being the biggest party of my life! People from all over the world descend on Hong Kong for a rugby spectacle in the sun! Many exchange students dress- up in support of their home countries. The event is famed for its fancy dress and crowd songs, and is an experience I will never forget. Make sure you book early! I also joined a local rugby club and ended up winning the Hong Kong Rugby Championship with the team! I made friends working in some amazing jobs through the club.
One thing not to miss in Hong Kong is the hiking. There are many scenic trails to follow around the mountainous islands, and you can visit local fishing villages and ancient Buddhist shrines. There are also many secluded beaches to explore. Hong Kong is not only a magnificent city, but offers nature lovers everything too! Although im not a big shopper, Hong Kong has everything from cheap markets to high end designer shops. Im sure there are plenty of bargains!
Should you go on exchange to Hong Kong?
Absolutely! You will make lifelong friends, experience the dazzle of the concrete jungle and the best of Chinese culture. You can also travel anywhere in Asia cheaply. Remember studying in Asia will also give you a great advantage when looking for jobs in your field. Apply now!
- Zubayr studied abroad at the University of Hong Kong in Hong Kong
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