Overseas Learning Experiences Winky LEE (GCS) Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands Winky broadened her perspective by exploring management and communication through international case studies during her exchange at Erasmus University Rotterdam. A defining highlight was an Art Education course, which directly inspired the direction of her Final Year Project, allowing her to seamlessly bridge her European academic exposure with her work at HKUST. Living with international flatmates taught her the value of direct, honest feedback, while navigating the Dutch winter on a bicycle built genuine adaptability and resilience. Travelling extensively across multiple European countries showed her how food connects people—whether through sharing her own culture by cooking or enjoying local treats like stroopwafels. She returns to HKUST for her final year with a global mindset, refreshed energy, and lasting memories. Gordon SU (GCS) University of California, Los Angeles, United States Gordon spent a meaningful semester at UCLA in United States. Rather than one sudden change, the experience slowly shaped how he thinks, learns and sees the world, giving him a broader global perspective. Academically, classes at UCLA were highly interactive. Students were encouraged to speak up, ask questions and share opinions. At first Gordon found it challenging, but daily conversations with native speakers and international students enhanced his English proficiency and confidence in expression. Los Angeles, a diverse global city, exposed him to many different cultures and ways of thinking. Everyday interactions made him more open-minded. This exchange brought him gradual personal growth, including stronger language skills, a wider worldview and the courage to step outside his comfort zone. Gordon regards it as a highly valuable experience. Emily TSE (GCS) The University of Warwick, United Kingdom During her exchange at the University of Warwick in the UK, Emily immersed herself in the Sociology Department, taking modules in victimology, the criminal justice system, and transgender studies. These insightful courses challenged her to critically examine societal structures, inequality, and identity. Her experience was further enriched by patient, supportive professors and diverse classmates who brought global perspectives to seminars. Living in campus accommodation fostered lasting bonds through shared meals, late-night studies, and daily life. Beyond academics, Emily gained independence and prioritized self-care through quiet reflection and cooking. She also explored historical sites like Coventry’s St Mary’s Guildhall, hiked the Seven Sisters cliffs, and visited Scotland’s Glenfinnan Viaduct, returning home with transformative insights, cherished memories, and a stronger sense of self. Yuyu FU (GCS) Sciences Po, France During her exchange at Sciences Po Paris, Yuyu (right) balanced extensive travel across France and Europe with her studies, significantly improving her time management skills. She was inspired by taking the most insightful courses of her life. In classes covering Turkish foreign policy, the contemporary Middle East, and gender law, she explored unfamiliar regional histories, politics, and European gender equality cases. Beyond the classroom, Yuyu benefited from the institution’s rich academic resources, including talks by politicians and diplomats from European countries and international organizations like the UN. Grateful for her semester at Sciences Po, she strongly recommends it as one of the best exchange destinations for SHSS students. 10
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