Jenny TRINH

University of New South Wales, Australia
Exchange to the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Hong Kong was an obvious choice for my exchange and a decision that I do not regret having made. It was a place where I could further my knowledge on Asia, an interest that was sparked by my curiosity to learn more about my Chinese background. I arrived with some familiarity to the culture, but that was just the tip of the iceberg. The people I was to meet and the unforgettable experiences that I was to have starting from ‘Asia’s world city’ were beyond what I had imagined.

I packed my bags and my life in Sydney up as I said my last farewells to my friends and family. It was the first time that I would leave the safe nest of my home to embark on a journey across lands and oceans. Hong Kong is a unique combination of Chinese and international influences making it the perfect playground for an adventurous spirit like mine. Most images of Hong Kong depict it as high rise buildings in a fast paced city. This generalised view of Hong Kong was certainly challenged by the beauty of its natural landscapes waiting to be discovered on our hiking trips. Though it was always a test of physical ability, the sweeping views that we were rewarded with was more than enough to make us plan out our next trip.

The Chinese University of Hong Kong has a unique character of its own as well. The campus is to be envied by Hong Kong University because of the clear blue skies and lush green landscape escaping the dust and dirt of the city. Situated on the side of a hill, students often lament at the trek to get to classes. Luckily, my college was located in a prime position close to University MTR, classrooms and facilities. S.H.Ho College became my ‘home away from home’ during my 9 months on exchange. It was here that I experienced the joys of bonding with fellow students, dining with the college at communal dining and living life my own way utilising the freedoms of the exchange lifestyle in a city that never sleeps.

Hong Kong International airport became a place of familiarity due to the countless trips with small groups of friends who endeavoured out to explore Asia. My short trips to nearby countries included China, Macau, South Korea and Taiwan. Many memories were created as we worked together to get around in the foreign country, getting to know the culture and trying out new foods and things unique to each country.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Australian Government and the Cheung Kong Group for awarding me with the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Award. The financial support has opened up a world of opportunities, experiences and unforgettable memories. Lastly, my exchange would not have been the same without the wonderful support of my friends and family.

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