ESP Program experience sharing
As the first session of one academic year exchange students participated in the ESP program between UIC and HKBU. I must acknowledge that embarking on a journey at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) is not just about academics, rather it's a holistic experience that encompasses diverse facets of my life in Hong Kong. From academic rigor to enriching extracurricular activities and profound personal growth, HKBU offers a dynamic environment that nurtures well-rounded individuals. This short sharing will delve into the perspectives of study experience, entertainment, and personal thinking to uncover my vibrant tapestry of life at HKBU.
l Study Experience
The curriculum provisions in HKBU such as teaching methods and grade assignments are similar to those in UIC. So, for students coming from UIC, it’s easy to adapt to the teaching style in HKBU. But what is well-noted is that HKBU has more students coming from different cultures which contributes a lot to intercultural communication. The school also holds abundant activities such as pairing language partners to learn a second foreign language and different cultures to encourage students to communicate and learn from each other.
Education in Hong Kong not only focuses on the class but cares about every individual in this society as well. From my own study experience in HK, they did a great job in humanistic care. For instance, during the semester, the school held a lot of activities focusing on students’ mental health and even invited cute doges when the final exam was approaching to help students release pressure. In school, you can see slogans like “It’s ok to feel depressed, if you are not feeling well, you can seek our professional help at any time.” everywhere. In one of the classes I chose this semester, we were required to interview minor groups in HK society like the domestic helpers, which helped us to understand the complex cultural background in HK more deeply and raise our awareness to care for those in the lower class.
l Entertainment and Delicious Food
For exchange students, the exchange semester of an academic year is a great chance to experience the local culture and beautiful natural landscapes of Hong Kong. Hong Kong which serves as the financial center in Asia for a long period. Bustling Central and moist sea winds witness its glory. Numerous entertainments can be found there. When I was staying in HK, I saw the musical drama held at the City University of Hong Kong. I took the Star Ferry and enjoyed the beautiful sea. I also tried several kinds of food and Hong Kong milk tea. For girls, don’t miss the HK Disney Land.
l Personal Thinking
For students who are considering continuing their postgraduate studies in Hong Kong. This exchange experience can be a great way for them to experience in advance.
For me, who also held this thought before I decided to participate in this program, I experienced several magic moments. HK has a special regulation that students from the eight public universities can share resources. I visited the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong several times. Honestly speaking, these top Universities are worth their reputation for a certain reason. Every week various academic conferences will be held and channels to communicate with professionals in various and open. For students who will participate in the next coming ESP program, it’s highly recommended to visit your dream school in HK.
