CHIU Chi Kan

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

"He that travels far know much", concludes my entire exchange journey. One can learn a place's culture and background through reading. However, one cannot know its people without reaching them to learn their unique stories stemmed from a place where they live.

I am so grateful to have this rare opportunity to come to The University of Adelaide as an exchange student for one semester. Frankly, I had a sense of loneliness upon arrival, as that was my first experience in an unfamiliar environment alone. Cultural shock is definitely one of the major challenges faced by exchange students, and I was not the exception. Luckily, I coped with it successfully as I learned gradually that the best way out was to embrace every opportunity to meet with new friends. Also, in case of doubt, it is always good to ask for friends' advice or help. What is more, nothing is better than idling a boring Sunday afternoon away with a bunch of friends. I did enjoy hanging out with them to explore this lovely city and talking about people and culture of the host and home countries. I love mingling with people from all walks of life, as I can understand more of their cultures, value and ways of thinking to appreciate the cultural differences. I conversed with my Aussie friends about the unique accent, language and slangs, which can never be learned in class, in books, or online.

Furthermore, everyday life and social interactions introduced to me subtle nuances of each culture that can only be understood by living in a country for an extended period of time. I was thus able to learn some fun facts about Australia that would otherwise not be possible for me to know - its unique business and trading hours.

Apart from travelling around the city, I also enjoyed walking along the streets to appreciate the much organised town planning and the beauty of architecture, which contrasts much with my hometown, Hong Kong. Apparently, buildings in Adelaide are mostly low-rise with details focusing on the quality of life. For instance, my own university's library, The Barr Smith Library's detailed "Harry Potter" ancient design is so astonishing that it has become my favourite study spot. In it, I was buried in books (please refer to the photo I took at the library!) and deeply absorbed in an ambience where I stayed hungry in pursuit of knowledge and excellence.

Not only that it has been a pleasure for me to participate in the exchange programme, but also I am fortunate enough to be one of recipients of the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards. It enables me to step out of my comfort zone and travel around the country, widening my horizon in so many ways. I feel confident to tell my buddies about Australia as I feel like having the mission to introduce this alluring city to those who have yet had a chance to get there. Thank you Adelaide, you have been great!

Till next time.

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