WONG Shan Shan

Student of City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Exchange to The University of Western Australia, Australia

I travelled to Perth in 2015 for my exchange and it was definitely the most memorable 5 months during my undergraduate study. I was fortunate enough to study in one of the most outstanding universities – the University of Western Australia. To be honest, Perth was not in my plan for exchange as I planned to study in major cities on the east coast. However, Perth has offered more than what I have expected and I never regret going to Perth for my exchange.

When I was on exchange in Perth, I chose homestay as my accommodation as I wanted to gain an in-depth understanding towards Aussie culture. I lived with a family with two children as well as other two students from Switzerland and Indonesia. Every day we shared stories and made different food we have at home. It was so much fun and I really enjoyed my stay. Besides my host and students I lived with, almost everyone in Perth I met was extremely nice. Mate – that’s how people call you. I never felt stressed or helpless thanks to the kindness and passion of the Aussie people. All friends I made in the Australia and I still keep in touch and we will meet again in the immediate future and travel together.

Having lived in a modern city and surrounded by skyscrapers for nearly 20 years, I was struck by the natural beauty of Australia. I still remember how vivid and wonderful the Ningaloo Reef is, and I would not forget the spectacular Wave Rock and magnificent landscape in Kalbarri National Park. I cannot believe that there are so many wild dolphins and sea lions on the island which is near the city! When I did not have much time to travel, I could just randomly pick a beach or just take a walk in Kings Park where I would never be disappointed by the picturesque views. During my study break, I flew to Sydney and I was surprised that the hectic city is surrounded by national parks. Visiting Blue Mountains is on the top of my checklist and I definitely recommend it to others.

Talking about the Mother Nature, how can I not mention the aboriginal art? Visiting art galleries is also one of my favorite activities and I found many art galleries displaying aboriginal artworks. The artworks are related to the nature and many symbols are used to represent different elements such as water and various animals. If you love the natural environment, you would love aboriginal arts as well!

I would like to express my gratitude to Cheung Kong Group, the Australian Government, my home and host university for supporting my exchange study in Perth. The exchange experience has touched me in many ways and helped me learn in different aspects. Without this award, I believe that I would not have explored that much in Australia. Going on exchange to Australia is such a precious and unforgettable experience that I desire to go back again!

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