WOM Wai Kuen, Choco

The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Exchange to The University of Queensland, Australia

My four-month exchange study in Brisbane was undoubtedly a fruitful and unforgettable experience. I am greatly honoured to have received the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Scholarship through which I gained a golden opportunity to travel to Australia, experience other cultures, make new friends, and broaden my horizons. Though it may sound cliched, I am in no doubt that this experience really changed my personality and will have a very positive and long-lasting impact on my life.

During my exchange study, I stayed at International House, one of the colleges of the University of Queensland. I will never forget the fantastic time I had there. I got to meet people from different countries, make lots of new friends and take part in many interesting social events. One such event was the monthly high-table dinner called “bara khana” which students attended wearing their respective national costumes. I enjoyed the “bara khana” very much because it provided me with the opportunity to socialize and get better acquainted with my fellow housemates, not to mention the fact that it allowed me to put on my cheongsam.

Another interesting social event was the ‘soiree’ which aims at promoting multi-culturalism as well as fostering camaraderie amongst students. All students were required to participate and various food stalls were set up, serving a wide array of cuisines from different countries. The soiree had a very festive, open-day atmosphere and a good time was usually had by all.

Apart from the college experience, there are two other things about Australia which contributed to make my stay there memorable. One was the weather and the other was the beautiful natural scenery. The warm, sunny weather, the sweet fresh air and the cloudless sky in Brisbane make any outings and sports activities a joy; and I personally think Australia has the most breathtakingly beautiful beaches and waterfalls in the world. Writing about them now makes me realize how much I miss them.

I wish to thank the Endeavour Australia Cheung Kong Awards for granting me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn and experience so much - much more than I ever expected. Finally, I would like to recommend the University of Queensland to anyone who is interested in pursuing his or her study in Australia.

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