My Exchange at The University of Hong Kong
How you found out about the 360 International exchange programme
From the moment I started university, I was set on going on an exchange. I first came across the 360 International exchange program at an open day, and it instantly caught my attention. The sheer variety of universities and destinations available was inspiring, and I knew that choosing this path would lead to incredible opportunities and unforgettable experiences.
Your feelings/first impressions when you arrived at your host university/city/country
I was captivated by the stark contrast between Hong Kong and Auckland—the bustling city life, the towering skyline, and the new language all around me. This vibrant environment filled me with excitement, mixed with a bit of anxiety. But any nerves quickly faded as I connected with other exchange and local students during orientation week activities.
What your accommodation was like
I stayed in the Jockey Club Student Village III, just a five-minute walk from the nearest MTR station, which offered direct access to campus and many central spots in the city. Located in Kennedy Town, a lively area filled with diverse restaurants and cafes, it also had the bonus of being right by the pier, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
I shared a double room with another HKU student, and over the semester, we became good friends.
Orientation at the host university
HKU provides an excellent orientation program for exchange students, including “WOW” tours that showcase Hong Kong’s highlights through local activities like hiking, boat tours, dim sum, hot pot, museum visits, and shopping. They also organise faculty-based campus tours specifically for exchange students—a great way to meet others in your degree and major and something I’d highly recommend.
What you thought of the courses/teaching at the host university
My learning experience at HKU was highly positive. The lectures were interactive, often requiring in-class participation to share thoughts and ideas, which contributed to our grades. One key difference I noticed compared to Auckland was the level of student engagement—attendance was nearly always mandatory, and students were consistently involved. I appreciated this structure, as it kept us focused throughout each class. Lecture sessions were also generally longer and more frequent, which added to the immersive learning environment.
What the host city/country was like
Hong Kong is an incredibly diverse and vibrant city, offering the best of all worlds. Its unique blend of cultures, shaped by its global connections, gives the city an unmatched character. What I love most—and what surprised me—is that, despite the city’s crowded, bustling energy, there are also stunning and easily accessible islands and nature areas to explore.
What the cost of living was like compared to Auckland
In my experience, the cost of living in Hong Kong is more affordable than in Auckland as a student. Dorm rent and public transportation are considerably cheaper, and there’s no shortage of inexpensive food options everywhere. You can really tailor your experience to your budget, as there are also plenty of higher-end options available. I have to admit, though, it’s hard to resist the constant temptation to shop and buy things!
Extracurricular activities you took part in (travelling, clubs, sports, etc.)
HKU offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, both within the university and the residence halls. At Jockey Club Student Village III, there’s a strong emphasis on extracurricular involvement, with clubs and events covering just about any interest. I joined the hall’s running and cooking clubs, while at the university level, I participated in events hosted by the Business and Economics Associations. These clubs organized invaluable networking events, where prominent business alumni shared their experiences and offered us the chance to connect and build our networks.
Life on campus
The HKU campus boasts an incredible view over the city and ocean, and at night, it looks especially breathtaking. There are two libraries, including one that’s open 24/7—a huge plus during exam season, though both can get quite busy, so it’s best to arrive early. The campus also has several food spots and is always buzzing with events and performances happening around every corner.
Food
Hong Kong offers an incredible array of delicious food options, with good meals available for as little as $30 HKD. While I enjoyed a range of different cuisines during my time abroad, the standout meals were always local—especially at Hong Kong-style cafes and dim sum restaurants.
Highlights of your exchange
The highlights of my exchange were exploring the diverse areas of the city and its surrounding nature, meeting new people, and, of course, the food! I quickly adapted to the fast-paced lifestyle and found that making friends with both locals and other exchange students helped me navigate cultural differences. Keeping an open mind made it much easier to embrace the new environment and lifestyle.
Any advice you would give to students thinking about the exchange programme
I highly recommend the 360 International exchange to any student looking for new experiences, challenges, and cultural learning. Reflecting on my own journey, I found it essential to maintain a balanced lifestyle. When studying abroad, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—academically, socially, or simply adjusting to a new environment. Staying adaptable and open to new experiences is crucial, but so is taking time for yourself to recharge and stay grounded.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
One of the highlights of my academic experience was taking area-specific and specialised courses. I had the chance to enrol in an International Business Environment course, where I wrote my final memorandum on China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This was my favourite course, as it provided deep insights into China’s global influence and closely examined its relationships with other nations.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
Exploring the islands and going hiking
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
- Attend the orientation week tours – They’re a fantastic way to meet new people and get acquainted with the area.
- Open a Hong Kong bank account (HSBC is the most straightforward option) – This simplifies payments with friends and eliminates the hassle of constantly exchanging currency.
- Make friends with locals – They know the best food spots and can help you discover hidden gems around the city.
How much did you budget for your exchange? Was this enough? Were there any lessons learned that would help future students budget for their own exchange?
I created a budget before my exchange and tracked my expenses weekly. If you plan to travel, it’s essential to factor in additional costs to keep your budget realistic.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
I found the exchange students in Hong Kong to be incredibly high-achieving individuals. Being surrounded by such an inspiring group motivated me to learn more about their experiences and ambitions. At times, it was challenging not to fall into comparisons, but even that was a valuable learning experience. Exposure to such diverse perspectives broadened my horizons and opened the door to amazing opportunities. I’m deeply grateful for my exchange experience and the lifelong friendships I’ve made along the way.
Do you want to share anything about travels you did outside your host city/country?
I also travelled to Macau, Korea, Japan and Vietnam.