Lok Man Tiffany Yeung

City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Exchange to University of Technology, Sydney, Australia

Studying overseas has always been my dream since I was 14, but it seemed impossible due to my financial situation. However, the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Scholarship Programme has made my dream come true. I completed one semester of study at the University of Technology, Sydney last term. It was a truly rewarding experience and I believe that what I have learnt will benefit me for a lifetime.

My time at the University of Technology, Sydney is one I am sure I will never forget. The “Aussie” people I met were all friendly and amiable. What impressed me the most was their attitude toward life – they enjoyed a wholesome lifestyle, a harmony with nature and all at a relaxing pace. Many young Australians spend months or even years traveling and experiencing life. I am now encouraged to travel more after graduation and see the world through my own eyes.

By living with a local family, I was able to experience their culture, living habits, family relationship and even humour. To be honest, I was a bit worried about living with an Australian family and adapting to a totally different culture. However, it turned out very well. It was a wonderful fusion of cultures as east met west. I learned how to brew coffee while the mother of the family learned how to make wontons. The family was always warm and caring and in the end we found it hard to part from each other.

Sydney is an international city where I met people from New Zealand, Germany, Spain, Italy, England, Scotland, Chile, Arabia, Egypt, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia and of course, Australia. It was obviously an “international” experience. I got the chance to know more about different cultures and I am now used to listening to various accents. On top of that, I will never forget the joy and fun we had together, as well as the tears and good wishes when we finally had to say goodbye.

Of course, things did not always go as smoothly as I had hoped. 2 months before my departure to Australia, my tight budget was further burdened by tuition fees. My first application for scholarship failed and I was defeated to an extent that I even thought of giving the whole plan of studying abroad up. An aunt said she would be willing to lend me money for the fees. With her help, I could finish my studies but I would be in debt for several years after graduation. When the situation seemed gloomy, a big surprise came at the last minute. 10 days before my departure, my home university, City University of Hong Kong, informed me that I had won the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Scholarship. It meant that I could finish my exchange study without financial worries. It meant that I did not have to get into debt. As I walked out from the office, I was so excited and grateful that I nearly screamed and hugged everyone I saw. Through all the ups and downs, I now understand more about the uncertainty of life. More importantly, I have set a goal. In the future, I will imitate all those that have helped me and spare no effort to help students who have financial needs as soon as I can afford it. At the moment, I have joined the buddy scheme and I am ready to help incoming exchange students to settle down and enjoy their exchange period.

My exchange has finished, but everything I learned during this period will last forever. Looking back, happiness and satisfaction always outweigh adversity. I will never forget these beautiful memories. Here I am now, more mature and caring, working even harder to achieve my goals.

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Cheung Kong Group and the Australian Government for giving me a chance to fulfill my dream and for everything I have experienced.

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