Ali BORAZJANI

Student of University of Tasmania, Australia
Exchange to City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

I spent one semester studying at City University of Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a city I had the pleasure of visiting briefly two years prior. Never had I seriously considered exchange, until I saw an opportunity in Hong Kong. Having the opportunity to study in a city I was familiar with provided an air of familiarity, and made the decision to apply rather simple. I can since say, without reservation, the time I spent on exchange has been the time of my life. Unfortunately, only such clichés come close to describing the experience.

Indisputably, studying abroad is a fear inducing prospect. Moving away from family, friends and colleagues to a foreign culture and environment is not easy. Relationships, studies and employment provide the comforting blanket, which many do not dare face the chill of the outside world without. However, as we age and our relationships deepen, the outside world becomes colder - what better time to remove the blanket than youth?

"One must live beyond their comfort zone so that in turn, one's comfort zone will grow."

My reality was 432 other exchange students in my university, all of which were in the same situation; alone in a new country. This is literally the perfect scenario for meeting new friends and you will never feel alone. I can think of no other way of moving to a new country in such a supportive and friendly environment. Financially, there are plentiful avenues of support. The Cheung Kong scholarship, University of Tasmania and Golden Key International Honour Society, all provided valuable financial support for my time away. Without their support, this experience would not have happened, and I am forever in their debt.

Attempts at describing 5 months of anxiety, self-discovery, ecstasy, exploration, friendship and adventure are redundant. Like describing love or hate, words have little meaning. Get out there and experience it.

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