Science Student Exchange Programme

Fenix Au

Exchange Year (2005-2006)
University of Helsinki, Finland

During my exchange in Helsinki, I had the valuable opportunity to get away from Hong Kong and try a new way of life. I had roommates from seven different countries, and our daily interactions greatly deepened our mutual understanding. The sharing of views and knowledge on history, politics, social issues, economy, customs and culture, food, and alcohol formed strong social ties among us, and we became like brothers.

The Science Student Exchange Programme gave me an opportunity to make some lasting memories in a foreign place, ranging from watching fireworks to celebrate new year in Swedish style, sleeping overnight in a bus station while my friend’s shoes were stolen, living with a traditional Czech family in a village, and learning first-hand about local drinking culture and their passion for beer and vodka.

Apart from having fun learning about the foreign culture and people, I also advanced my academic studies. I conducted a research project on phytoplankton bloom. Under the supervision of Professor Aike Beckmann in the Geophysics Division, Department of Physical Science, I investigated the blooming of phytoplankton. Though my work produced little valuable results, I learned a great deal about ocean modeling and research methods. In Helsinki, I also took several courses and met many local and exchange students. The international learning environment opened my eyes, and I greatly appreciated the atmosphere of the university. The liberal outlook of the host university enabled a diverse range of courses to be available for students.?

I consider my experience in Finland a very fruitful one. The skills of interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds can only be learned by practice and keeping an open mind and respect towards others and their cultures. Through going on exchange, I have discovered a new world and realized how my life can be different.