Nikkola Pickering

Murdoch University, Australia
Exchange to City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

My Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong scholarship has been the most rewarding experience of my life so far. It offered me a multitude of remarkable experiences and new learning opportunities, and I could not have asked for a more amazing journey.

The chance to study in a city as instrumental as Hong Kong allowed me insight into East Asian culture, politics and its distinctive global perspective. Through my learning experience at City University of Hong Kong (CityU) I was able to see another side to the political studies I underwent in Australia. I gained knowledge of Chinese history and culture, and a much greater understanding of an increasingly important topic, Chinese politics. Aside from being exceptionally helpful and friendly, the staff at CityU offered me a high calibre of experience and detailed knowledge about everything we needed to know. The skills and knowledge gained for my student exchange have and will continue to benefit my future tremendously.

I also had the opportunity to learn something about the people of East Asia, and the vibrant city and people that is Hong Kong. The day-to-day living offered me such rich learning experiences, far more so than I could have ever expected. Of course, my exchange to Hong Kong was as exciting and fun-filled as it was a learning curve. Living in Hong Kong for the semester gave me opportunities to travel that would not have been possible from Australia. I had the chance to visit Mainland China to see the incredible rice fields near Guilin, the hustle bustle city of Manila and the beautiful southern cities of Japan. It also allowed me to enjoy the surprising yet breathtaking natural beauty of Hong Kong. On several hikes I was able to see amazing views, visit small fishing towns and enjoy a traditional Hong Kong “BBQ”. And of course, I made many wonderful, long-lasting friendships while on exchange. The students of CityU were so willing to make us feel at home, a perfect reflection of the warm and open nature of Hong Kong culture. I hold Hong Kong very close to my heart now, and I cannot wait to return!

My exchange experience provided me with so many things: a global perspective; a greater depth of cultural understanding; long-lasting friendships; and an ignition to the flame burning within me. Hong Kong has broadened my horizons beyond my greatest and expectations and now nothing seems out of reach. I am very grateful for the opportunity to study abroad, especially in a city as amazing as Hong Kong.

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