CHAN Tsz Hei

Student of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Exchange to La Trobe University, Australia

I was a year three student when I started my exchange. I feel very lucky to have this precious exchange experience in Australia, together with receiving the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards Scholarship, which gave me the great opportunity to study overseas and explore the spectacular Australia, especially Melbourne.

This was my first visit to the Southern Hemisphere. If the opportunity to study in Australia was not available, I would have no chance to step out of my comfort zone and live independently. I flew to Melbourne alone, carrying all my baggage and not knowing much about Australia. When I landed and stepped into the Melbourne Airport, everything looked very new and unfamiliar to me. I started to panic and luckily the airport pick-up service provided by La Trobe University safely took me to my dormitory. After arrival, people were all very friendly and they taught me how to buy daily necessities, enrol for classes, and settle down.

The courses offered here were unique and unavailable in Hong Kong. The lectures, tutorials, and practices combined to provide a distinctive and interesting learning experience. Moreover, both the University and Melbourne itself are culturally very diverse. I met Australian people from different backgrounds, as well as many international students from places such as Singapore, India, and Japan. I was able to improve my spoken English and learn about their different cultures.

I struggled with my expenses during the first few weeks as the cost of living was relatively high compared to Hong Kong. Fortunately, the Endeavour Scholarship I received helped to alleviate some of my financial burden. It also gave me the chance to wander around and explore other parts of Australia. I spent my Easter vacation in Tasmania, which fascinated me with its stunning natural beauty.

This is by far the most precious and meaningful experience in my life because I can meet new friends, travel around, try new things and learn to be independent. I really enjoy and love this gorgeous place with the best people.

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