Hi there. My name is Oliver Read. I am 22 years old, and am currently in my final year as a Psychology student. I was presented with the opportunity to study abroad in Hong Kong during my second year (for first semester of third year). The initial thought of travelling half way across the world to both a country and continent I had never been to was terrifying. The idea of it was simply outside of my comfort zone. After prolonged deliberation, I took a leap of faith and went for it. This turned out to be the best decision I ever made.
The first couple of weeks were daunting to say the least. Due to a shortage of spaces in halls, I was given no other option but to find my own private accommodation. Whilst challenging at first, this turned out to be for the best. Not only did I have fellow HKU students as flatmates, but I also had the experience of living with locals. Such an experience gave me a real insight into life in Hong Kong, especially given the circumstances at the time. Hearing opinions from those it mattered to the most was better than any media coverage or external opinion.
A few months after arriving, my time was up. Due to the state of various Hong Kong campuses, the University had no other choice but to pull the plug. Despite the dismay at having to return a month earlier than expected, I am still so grateful for the time I spent there. So many great memories, so many great people, and regardless of the chaos, it was a blast.
See you soon Hong Kong,
Oliver
What exactly did you study in psychology in Hong Kong? Have you really gained useful knowledge? Or was the training the same as at home, but in a different environment?