Matthew Monty

Monash University, Australia
Exchange to The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Hello “lay ho”!

Coming to Hong Kong has been an interesting experience for me in many ways. Firstly, Hong Kong is a very large city compared to my home city of Melbourne… and extremely busy! When I arrived I was quite amazed by the large buildings and people walking in all directions. However, it all flows quite well. The biggest surprise for me was the order and efficiency of the city, despite the compressed population.

The university life has so far been all new to me. Living with a local roommate has been the hardest part, mainly because they have the opposite sleeping habits to our own. They study in the night and sleep in the day… and somehow manage to be incredibly noisy doing both! I can’t say I have really enjoyed living at the University, it really has been a challenge, but I have certainly learned a lot by observing the students here. They have very different ways of living and entertaining themselves, such as playing jump rope every midnight until 3am!

However, I have made some great local Hong Kong friends from other universities, and we often go out and share some great time together. I really don’t know what I would have done without them. They certainly have left memories I will never forget.

Compared with Australian studies, Hong Kong classes are quite similar. Most of my classes have consisted only of local students, which has been great, except they can be a little shy when talking to you! The most exciting class has been Chinese language, because of the vibrant and enthusiastic teacher we had. She really has been the best teacher of language I have had my whole life!

I have learnt only a few words here: “lay ho” (hello), “mm goy” (thank you), “gung hey fat choi” (Happy New Year!) and “bye bye” (goodbye)! The locals always laugh at me when I try to say them. I have also used some of my Chinese language to communicate with some shopkeepers in the outer parts of Hong Kong, which has been a lot of fun.

My favourite part of Hong Kong really has been exploring the city and the numerous beaches and mountains! Also, observing a completely new and fascinating culture is definitely a high point. I really look forward to coming back here next semester, and making some more memories I will never forget!

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