Ren QI

Student of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
Exchange to University of Technology, Sydney, Australia

The academic exchange program to Australia was the highlight of my entire university life. It enabled me to understand my studies from different perspectives and expose myself to a different culture. The overseas experience also honed my language and interpersonal skills, thus benefitting my job hunting and future career development.

In 2013, I studied in the Department of Applied Chemistry at University Technology Sydney for half a year. During that time I was interested in cross discipline subjects relating to chemistry and courses that were not of fered at my home university. I enrolled in classes from various departments, such as Forensic Science, Engineering and Medicine. These courses proved to be very insightful and inspired ideas about the applications of, and future developments, in the field of Chemistry. The following year, I started my graduation project based on some of those very ideas which received high praise from my professors.

Apart from a fulfilling academic life, I also enjoyed a dynamic life as a Chinese cultural representative as well as a passionate traveler in Australia. I joined several student societies and volunteer groups; making many life-long friends. One of the volunteer groups focused on supporting woman’s rights, especially those from low in-come families and recent immigrants. Most of (the women) were unemployed due to a language barrier and a lack of professional skills. Once a week, we would organize activities for the women to attend. Topics ranged from language tutorial, professional training workshops or simply a free afternoon tea session for sharing ideas and making connections. I volunteered to organize events the whole semester. By the end, I was very attached to the people I helped. I found that helping someone achieve their goals was equally as rewarding, if not more so, as reaching my own goals. Working as a volunteer was an invaluable in depth learning experience for me.

During my spare time, I traveled across the country. I scuba-dived in the world’s largest barrier reef, witnessed the migration of the wild penguins and even interacted with kangaroos and wombats. The most unforgettable excursion was a 7-day drive across central Australian desert. This trip was equally as challenging as it was a learning experience for me. I acquired many survival skills ranging from setting up a fire and cooking with it to collecting and purifying rainwater. I experienced many firsts out there. I saw a clear nights sky with the Milky Way and the full constellations of the southern hemisphere. I met an indigenous Australian and let him wrap a wild python around my shoulders. I camped in the forest with Kangaroos hopping around hoping to have breakfast with you. What an experience!

It has been two years since my exchange to Australia. What I learned and experienced will continue to influence my life. I am very grateful for the opportunity and I would like to thank you everyone that helped make this journey happen.

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