[SFU OLC Experience] Embracing Cantonese Culture: A Semester Abroad at HKU

Initiative

Humans of Study Abroad

Home Country

Vancouver

Canada

Program:

Study Abroad

University

The University of Hong Kong

Location:

Hong Kong

Experience Faculty

Beedie School of Business

The University of Hong Kong Sign
The University of Hong Kong Sign

Standing in front of The University of Hong Kong's Main Building
Standing in front of The University of Hong Kong's Main Building

Sitting in front of Hong Kong's West Kowloon Art Park during sunset
Sunset at Hong Kong's West Kowloon Art Park

Choi Hung Estate Rooftop Basketball Court
Choi Hung Estate Rooftop Basketball Court

Studying abroad at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) allowed me to take specialized courses not available at SFU, experience a different educational system, and meet a diverse group of people. This enriched my academic knowledge and cultural understanding, significantly enhancing my overall educational journey.

Experience Details

Semester

Spring

Year

2024

Introduction + Preparation

Location Research

After considering several locations, I chose Hong Kong for my study abroad experience because its academic calendar aligned perfectly with SFU's semesters. Additionally, it provided an excellent opportunity to cultivate my Cantonese language skills, immerse myself in the local culture, and travel to nearby countries in Asia.

Financial Preparation

For financial preparation, I relied on my personal savings and the income from a co-op term I completed right before my exchange. Additionally, I applied for and received SFU bursaries to support my study abroad experience. Careful budgeting for living expenses, travel costs, and academic materials ensured I could manage my finances effectively while abroad. To facilitate this, I opened a Hong Kong bank account, which helped in getting cash as Hong Kong is heavily cash-reliant, and to anticipate foreign currency needs for countries I planned to visit while abroad.

Packing

For packing, I ensured I had all travel essentials, including my laptop, universal adapters, and foreign currency, as well as CAD and USD for emergencies. It took several weeks to pack as I carefully selected clothes and shoes suitable for the climate and my activities abroad. Additionally, I brought important documents such as my passport and the required student visa for Hong Kong.

Travel and Transportation

I booked my flight to Hong Kong a month prior to my exchange, after securing accommodation in a dorm room. Upon landing at Hong Kong International Airport, I purchased an Octopus card. This card is similar to Vancouver's Compass card, which can be used to pay for public transit like the MTR or buses. However, it can also be used as payment at restaurants and shops. It functions like a prepaid debit card and is widely accepted in Hong Kong. After that, I took a taxi straight to my dorm room. Taxis in Hong Kong generally accept cash only, so it's crucial to have cash prepared on hand. Uber is also available in Hong Kong, so if you don't have cash, that is another option.

Preparation Tips for Future Students

Networking and Social Activities:
Take advantage of HKU's orientation programs tailored specifically for exchange students at the beginning of the semester. These events are designed to help you meet fellow exchange students and build lasting friendships. Additionally, participate in events organized by HKU dormitories, such as the High Table Dinner, where residents gather for meals. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet students living in the same accommodation and foster a sense of community.

Cultural Preparation:
Consider enrolling in Cantonese or Mandarin language classes offered by HKU if you are not proficient in Chinese. These classes not only enhance cultural immersion but also facilitate daily interactions. Embrace the local custom of sharing limited space by being open to sitting with strangers in restaurants, as table spacing is often limited due to small dining areas in Hong Kong. Lastly, carry tissues with you, as restaurants typically do not provide them, ensuring you are prepared for everyday situations. These preparations will help you integrate smoothly into HKU's vibrant community and make the most of your exchange experience in Hong Kong.

During my Experience

Orientation and First Weeks

During orientation, which coincided with Chinese New Year, we participated in traditional lion dancing, learned Chinese New Year greetings and Cantonese phrases, received red envelopes, and university merchandise. Additionally, there was a comprehensive campus tour introducing us to facilities and services available at HKU. Business students attended an additional orientation focusing on course registration and the grading system, ensuring a smooth transition into academic life. These activities and sessions provided essential information and a warm welcome to campus life in Hong Kong.

Accommodation and Living

Upon receiving my acceptance, I promptly applied for HKU dormitory accommodation. Initially, I resided in Jockey Village 2, one of HKU's dormitories, where I shared a room with a roommate. This dormitory was conveniently located a 10-minute walk from campus. Later, I applied to transfer to HKU's newest dormitory, Jockey Village 4, where many international and exchange students reside. These dorms offered single rooms, but Jockey Village 4 was farther from the main campus, requiring a 40-minute commute. However, it had a lot of amenities to offer: lounges, a game room with pool tables and air hockey, a gym, many study rooms, and 24-hour security.

Learning and Adaptation

At HKU, classes featured smaller sizes compared to SFU, with a schedule limited to morning and afternoon sessions—unlike SFU, which offers evening classes. Notably, half of the business courses I took emphasized projects over exams, with substantial weight on these assignments. Additionally, professors frequently invited guest lectures from prominent positions such as CEOs and directors from major Asian companies like Tencent or Alibaba. This approach enriched the academic experience, providing firsthand insights from industry leaders.

Accomplishments and Challenges

Studying at HKU offered me numerous new opportunities for personal growth and academic achievement. I felt proud when I engaged in challenging group projects that deepened my understanding of business practices in Asia. However, overcoming language barriers was a significant challenge, as English is the primary teaching language but Cantonese dominates daily communication in Hong Kong. Many times, in group meetings, my peers and I switched to Mandarin or Cantonese to accommodate local students more comfortable in those languages.

Navigating Hong Kong's vibrant environment was both stimulating and enriching. The city's diversity offered me the chance to hike one day, shop in bustling markets the next, or take relaxing day trips to nearby islands. These experiences broadened my cultural understanding and enhanced my adaptability to new and dynamic surroundings.

Reflection & Tips

Reflection

Meeting some of my closest friends, experiencing a different education system, and learning directly from Asia's leading industry leaders were the most valuable aspects of my HKU experience as an international business major. These opportunities not only enriched my academic knowledge but also broadened my cultural understanding and global perspective.

Most Valuable Aspects of This Experience

Being in the heart of East Asia allowed me to easily travel to a multitude of countries like China, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, and more during my time abroad. This enriched my cultural understanding, broadened my perspectives, and allowed me to experience different cultures, cuisines, and traditions firsthand.

Advice for Future Students

My biggest piece of advice for future students is to be open to building new relationships by embracing cultural differences and actively engaging with others. These connections can enhance both your personal and professional life long after your exchange ends.

Tags:

International