CHEN Hei Ching, Hazel

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

Studying abroad at The University of Newcastle, Australia ("UON") was an eye-opening experience. It had created many fond memories for me. During the exchange programme, not only did I improve my English language proficiency, I also expanded my social circle and experienced a different culture for a full semester.

The exchange programme allowed me to enrol in courses other than my major subjects. I am a marketing student back home in Hong Kong, which means I meet and interact mostly with other business study students. In UON, I had the chance to study two courses from the School of Arts. Studying design and language courses was very different from studying marketing. Students from that department had a completely different way of thinking when doing projects and course works. They inspired me to take a different angle when pondering questions and meanings.

Apart from the academic aspect, the Endeavour Scholarship also allowed me to fulfil my dream to see the outside world. I had the chance to visit cities such as Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney and to get a taste of the local culture in Australia. The wide varieties of vineyards and the stunning views of national parks and beaches were mind-blowing experiences for someone who grew up in a concrete jungle. I am a nature lover and a frequent beach-goer, and the places I visited in these cities added to my already wonderful memories of my time in Australia.

The exchange programme also allowed me to take up many challenges. I challenged myself in things I had never done before and to fit in with an environment that was totally different from home. Very often, I was the only Asian in my residence and classes. The exchange programme forced me to step out of my comfort zone and communicate with other people in a foreign language. It was not easy but that was the whole point of studying abroad.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Australian Government for sponsoring me in the exchange programme. Without it my exchange life would have been less fulfilling and less fun.

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