WONG Yin Kiu, Anna

Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Exchange to University of Adelaide, Australia

If anyone were to ask me if going on an exchange program was worthwhile, I would reply yes to them without hesitation. My exchange to Adelaide has brought me many wonderful memories.

When I first arrived here, I faced a lot of unfamiliar things and a lifestyle which was different to Hong Kong. This was challenging at the beginning as my family and friends were not around. However, these disheartening experiences were what made my exchange more rewarding – I had to confront the problems alone and push myself to adapt.

While studying in Adelaide, I have many chances to meet people from all over the world. Interacting with people from various backgrounds has provided me with valuable experiences and memories. Most importantly, I have made many life-long friendships with people from different nations, even travelling with some of them. I will never forget the great adventures I had with these people!

Initially, I thought that the shorter lecture hours would mean more free time for me. In actual fact, I needed to engage in many tutorials and research studies, a style of learning which was new to me, as students in Hong Kong learn from lectures only. While attending the tutorials and research studies, I was encouraged to express my opinions and ask questions. These interactive learning experiences changed my attitude about initiative study and I no longer hesitate to express my opinions in front of other foreigners!

I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards scholarship because it has allowed me to get more from my exchange via travelling. Within the state of South Australia, I have been to Victor Harbor, Hahndorf, Glenelg Beach, Port Adelaide, Mount Lofty, Windy Point, Kangaroo Island, Barossa Valley and many other locations. As for Australia, I have travelled to Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Cairns. These have all enriched my horizon and I have gained precious memories from my time as a backpacker. I especially relish the friendships made during these trips! Just about every part of my adventures was amazing, such as enjoying the breathtaking view of the Great Barrier Reef during my first snorkel-diving experience in Cairns!

There are only two months left for me in Adelaide, my feelings now are hard to describe. Despite having stayed in Adelaide for ten months, I wish I could stay longer. Still, I have to go back to Hong Kong. In spite of my imminent departure, these great exchange experiences have made me grow as a person and the precious friendships made in Adelaide will always stay with and belong to me.

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