Great adventures in Hong Kong amid pandemic

Joshua (right) is amazed by the great variety of Chinese cuisine.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, CUHK welcomed a small group of international students under the Global Learning Opportunities in Business Education (GLOBE) programme during the academic year. The students from the Copenhagen Business School (CBS) and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) had great adventures in Hong Kong in the past few months.

Joshua McCorquodale from UNC Chapel Hill found Hongkongers are exceedingly kind and welcoming despite the language barrier. ‘My friend and I ran into a student we met at the CUHK culinary class at a supermarket. He was so kind and took us to the peak and cooked some excellent Chinese BBQ pork for us in his home. Hong Kong itself is a striking blend of urban areas, beautiful hiking trails, beaches and parks. This world city gives me a new experience every day.’ Joshua is grateful that the semester has offered beyond his expectation.

Exchange students conquering the Suicide Cliff.

Philip Dias Santilhano from CBS felt very lucky to have the opportunity to go on exchange despite the global pandemic. ‘After a 3-week quarantine, I embarked on everything including incredible hikes, relaxing boat tours, delicious restaurant visits, and exciting camping trips, in addition to the productive study sessions. Social distancing and online teaching have no doubt affected the overall experience. Nevertheless, I have been astounded by how much Hong Kong has offered. Furthermore, CUHK has provided terrific facilities and a beautiful campus, complementing the great experience of living in Hong Kong. I urge future exchange students to make the most of their time here by exploring the many wonders of Hong Kong—I am sure you will enjoy it!’

Philip finds wakesurfing a good way to beat the heat.