Services for International Students
HKBU International Association (IA)
Our Hearts are in Hong Kong!
As there's a growth in the numbers of international & local non-Chinese (ethnic minority) undergraduate students at Hong Kong Baptist University, and the community will be even bigger in the future, the HKBU International Association (IA) was established. IA acts as a liaison between international students and the University management and aims to enrich international and ethnic minority students' campus life and promote internationalisation on campus.
All HKBU students are welcome to be members.
The ultimate goal of IA is to raise the awareness and sensitivity of the whole HKBU community towards the presence of international & local non-Chinese students and to increase the significance of international & local non-Chinese students' participation in the entire HKBU community as a whole to achieve an internationalised university environment. With the promotion of inclusiveness and internationalisation of HKBU in mind, IA established an event organising committee called the Global Engagement Squad (GES) to organise various activities welcoming every one of the HKBU community, including local, Mainland, and international students and staff.
Feel free to follow our Instagram for updates: https://www.instagram.com/hkbuia/ or contact us via email: sa-buia@so.hkbu.edu.hk
Financial Support for International Student Activities
About Global Engagement Squad GES (For International Students and Ethnic Minority Students)
About HKBU Village CARE Campaign Ethnic Minorities Engagement Grant (EMEG) (For Ethnic Minority Students)
Meet our Cultural Ambassadors 2025-26
The Cultural Ambassador Programme aims to ease the transition of new international students by pairing them with cultural ambassadors who come from their own countries or regions. These ambassadors are experienced senior students who have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that international students may encounter.
As new students, being matched with a cultural ambassador from their own country or region means that they will have a mentor who speaks their language and can provide guidance based on their own experiences. This personalised support is invaluable as new students adjust to a new environment, navigate campus life, and familiarise themselves with the local culture.
Hello everyone!
This is Kashmala, a second-year Finance student from Pakistan, and I am excited to assist you in settling into the fast-paced life in Hong Kong while making the most of this vibrant city!
Hong Kong has been an incredible adventure for me—whether it’s hiking through lush trails, relaxing by scenic beaches, or camping under the stars, I’ve fallen in love with its natural beauty. Of course, no week is complete without dim sum outings with friends or celebrating little joys by the harbour!
Moving to a new place can feel overwhelming, but I’d love to share tips, explore hidden gems together, and help you feel at home. Don’t hesitate to reach out—whether it’s about university life, finding the best eats, or just making new friends. Let’s make your first year unforgettable!
Hi everyone!
I am Sara Akhter, a second-year student majoring in Computer Science, and I’m from Pakistan. Having just completed my first year, I completely understand the mix of excitement and nervousness you might be feeling right now. But trust me—you’ve made the right choice coming here, and I’m always happy to help you find your way.
Hong Kong has truly become my second home, thanks to the amazing people I’ve met and the experiences I’ve had. I love connecting with others, listening to their stories, and sharing a few laughs along the way. Whether it's camping with friends, exploring the city, or going on spontaneous trips, I truly value quality time with others.
I’m also a big foodie and love trying new cuisines—something Hong Kong makes super easy with its diverse food scene! On weekends, you’ll often find me hiking or discovering hidden spots around the city, so if you’re ever planning an adventure, count me in!
I’m looking forward to meeting all of you and helping make your journey at HKBU as welcoming and exciting as mine has been.
Feel free to contact me anytime!
My name is Felix, and I’m originally from Indonesia, but I moved to Hong Kong in 2011 and have called it home ever since. Growing up as an ethnic minority here has shaped my perspective in profound ways, teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the value of embracing diversity. Hong Kong is a city that thrives on its multicultural vibrancy, and being part of this dynamic community has given me the chance to learn from people of all backgrounds.
One of my greatest passions is food, and as a dedicated foodie, I truly believe Hong Kong offers one of the most exciting and diverse food cultures in the world. From bustling dai pai dongs to hidden gems serving international cuisine, the city’s culinary scene reflects its rich heritage and openness to new influences.
I am genuinely excited and honored to have been selected as a cultural ambassador, and I look forward to sharing my experiences and insights with all of you. Through my stories, I hope to foster a greater appreciation for Hong Kong’s unique blend of traditions and modernity and to encourage others to explore and celebrate the city’s incredible cultural tapestry alongside me.
Hello! My name is Bibinur, and I’m from Taraz, Kazakhstan. I’m currently a second-year Computer Science student at HKBU, passionate about technology and its potential to connect people. Before coming to Hong Kong, I graduated from Nazarbayev Intellectual School, where I cultivated a love for learning and cultural exchange.
Beyond academics, I enjoy staying active through tennis, expressing creativity through drawing, and unwinding with baking—especially sharing treats with friends! I also love reading, as books inspire me and broaden my perspective.
As a Cultural Ambassador, I’m eager to support new international students in adapting to life at HKBU. Having gone through the transition myself, I understand the challenges and joys of studying abroad. I hope to create a welcoming space where students feel heard and encouraged. Whether it’s navigating campus, exploring Hong Kong, or just chatting over coffee, I’m here to help!
Let’s make this year memorable together—feel free to reach out!
Hi everyone! I’m Suditi, a second-year BBA student from Nepal, and I’m thrilled to be your cultural ambassador this year.
During my first year in Hong Kong, I’ve had the joy of exploring the city, discovering some great spots around campus, especially for food—particularly egg tarts—and learning about different cultures, all thanks to the diverse community around me. As your cultural ambassador, I hope to create similar experiences for all of you.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring new places, reading, and cooking for friends. I have a sweet tooth and love egg tarts! I believe in appreciating the little joys of life and staying connected to my roots, no matter the circumstances. I’m excited to share my Nepali culture with you and learn more about yours along the way!
I look forward to meeting all of you and making this an exciting and unforgettable journey!
Hey everyone! I'm Naseem Iqra, your friendly neighborhood Year 2 Science student, and I'm stoked to welcome you to Hong Kong Baptist University. Consider me your personal guide to all things university and Hong Kong!
Having called Hong Kong home for the last five years, and now with a year of university life under my belt, I understand that diving into this new chapter can feel like a whirlwind of experiences. It's exciting, sure, but maybe a tad overwhelming too! My goal is to help you navigate it all and transform that whirlwind into an epic journey we take together.
So, what can you expect from me as your cultural ambassador? I'm here to help you discover your niche! Need recommendations for the most amazing local food? Want to explore hidden gems and capture those perfect snapshots all around Hong Kong? Or perhaps you just need someone to chat with when you're feeling a bit overwhelmed? I'm your person!
When I'm not busy being an ambassador, you'll likely find me reading for fun and playing badminton. I'm super passionate about sharing my life experiences and listening to others' life stories—seriously, don't hesitate to reach out!
My name is Rakshanda Rahman, and I am from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Currently, I am a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), with dual concentrations in Economics & Data Analytics and Finance. As a recipient of a full scholarship, I am deeply committed to academic excellence and leveraging my analytical skills to explore the intersections of economics, data science, and financial markets.
I completed my International Advanced Levels at Maple Leaf International School in 2024. During my A-Levels, I served as the Secretary of the Business Club, where I contributed to organising competitions and streamlining communications. Additionally, I worked as a Teacher’s Assistant, grading exam papers and supporting after-school classes for subjects like Economics and Business.
Beyond academics, I am passionate about the arts, with over a decade of experience as a classical dancer and eight years of singing. Professionally, I am currently working as a Research Assistant under HKBU’s School of Business, further honing my analytical and research capabilities.
Driven by curiosity and a dedication to continuous learning, I aim to apply my multidisciplinary background to solve complex challenges in finance and data-driven decision-making. I look forward to connecting and collaborating with like-minded professionals.
Hello! I'm Vishal Kandel, a 20-year-old from the vibrant landscapes of Nepal, currently embarking on an exciting academic journey at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU). Here, I'm pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Business Computing and Data Analytics, a field that blends my interest in technology with strategic business insights. My path to HKBU has been truly enriching and wonderfully multicultural, allowing me to embrace diverse experiences and perspectives from across the globe.
I bring a unique and dynamic cultural background, having spent my formative years and completed my higher secondary education in the diverse nation of India before continuing my schooling and higher education in my home country, Nepal. Now, my time in bustling Hong Kong is providing unparalleled international exposure, constantly broadening my horizons and introducing me to a truly global community.
This summer, I'm further expanding my practical skills as an Infosec intern at Prive Technologies, diving into the critical and ever-evolving world of information security. Beyond my academic and professional pursuits, I deeply value the role of a cultural ambassador. I eagerly share insights into my Nepalese heritage and the rich tapestry of Indian culture I've experienced while also soaking up the myriad traditions and viewpoints encountered in this international hub. This continuous cross-cultural exchange is what truly excites me, adding invaluable layers to my personal growth and understanding of our interconnected world.
Hello! I’m Ayman Jashim, an upcoming Year 3 student majoring in Computer Science at HKBU. With a multicultural background and a passion for global connections, I truly enjoy meeting people from different parts of the world and learning about their unique perspectives.
University life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you’re far from home. That’s why I am here—to help make that journey a little smoother and more enjoyable. Whether it’s your first time in Hong Kong or you’re just looking to connect, I’m always happy to chat, share experiences, or lend a helping hand.
Being part of the Cultural Ambassador team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my university experience. It has given me the opportunity to support international students, celebrate cultural diversity, and build friendships that go beyond borders.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need support—I’m just a message away. I look forward to meeting you on campus!
Hi everyone! I’m Anayed Hossain Eshan, a Year 3 student studying Business Computing and Data Analytics, and I’m so excited to be your Cultural Ambassador at HKBU.
I come from a background where I’ve always loved exploring different cultures, meeting new people, and sharing stories from around the world. For me, being part of a global campus like HKBU is not just about studying—it’s about learning from each other, celebrating our differences, and building meaningful connections.
As your Cultural Ambassador, I’m here to support you in your journey—whether that means helping you adjust to university life, showing you around campus, or simply being someone you can talk to. We'll have fun activities, cultural sharing events, and casual meetups where we can all feel welcomed and included.
I know starting life in a new place can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—you’re not alone. This is a space where everyone belongs, and I’ll do my best to make sure you feel at home.
So get ready to make new friends, try new things, and enjoy an exciting chapter at HKBU. I can’t wait to meet you all!
My name is Rahyan Ashraf, and I’m from Sylhet, a culturally rich region in the northeast of Bangladesh. I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Hong Kong Baptist University. Having relocated to Hong Kong as an international student, I understand the uncertainties and challenges that come with adjusting to a new academic, cultural, and social environment.
During my time at HKBU, I have benefited greatly from the supportive and diverse community here, and I now look forward to giving back. As a Cultural Ambassador, I aim to help new international students feel welcome and connected from the moment they arrive. I’m particularly passionate about building cross-cultural friendships, encouraging open-mindedness, and helping others navigate both academic life and everyday experiences in Hong Kong. Whether it’s guiding students through orientation, answering practical questions, or simply offering a listening ear, I’m excited to support and learn from our global community.
I’m Assem, a Year 3 Arts and Technology student from Kazakhstan, currently living it up in Hong Kong. I’m all about mixing creativity with tech—whether it’s digital art, cool installations, or just geeking out over new media stuff.
But let’s be real: my true passion is food. I’m that friend who’s always dragging people to try some random noodle shop or hunting down the best egg waffles. Hong Kong’s food scene is insane, and I’ve made it my mission to eat through as much of it as possible. Hit me up for recommendations!
When I’m not eating or buried in assignments, you’ll probably find me wandering some backstreet market, hiking to a hidden viewpoint, or hopping on a last-minute flight. Studying in HK has given me the chance to travel to eight countries already (and counting!), so if you need budget travel tips or off-the-radar spots, I’ve got you.
Basically, I’m up for anything: new food adventures, spontaneous trips, or just chilling with good company. Let’s make some memories (and maybe a few questionable food choices) together!
Hello, my name is YongJu Woo, a second-year international student from South Korea currently majoring in Finance at Hong Kong Baptist University. My hobbies include sports, traveling, and participating in social gatherings.
My journey as an international student began after middle school when I enrolled in a Canadian international school located in Malaysia. Since then, I have spent a significant portion of my academic life studying abroad, which has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the unique challenges that freshmen often face in unfamiliar environments.
I am particularly aware of the emotional and practical difficulties new students encounter—such as a lack of reliable information, cultural adjustment, and the opportunity costs that come from navigating a new system without adequate support. As someone who once struggled to ask for help and build connections during my own freshman year in Hong Kong, I deeply empathize with those feelings of isolation and uncertainty.
As a Cultural Ambassador, I aim to be approachable, empathetic, and proactive. I hope to serve as a trustworthy guide for incoming students, helping them adjust smoothly both academically and emotionally. To any freshmen reading this, please feel free to reach out at any time—I will be more than happy to connect and assist you personally.
Hello everyone! I'm Saman Rasheed, a second-year international Visual Arts student from Pakistan. Being born and raised in Saudi Arabia taught me the value of culture and how differences in traditions can bring us together as a society, from all walks of life. During my time at HKBU, I've seen that learning about our different cultures allows us to understand and engage with those around us on a deeper level.
As you embark on your journey to further your studies at HKBU, please feel free to get in touch with any concerns you may have or any problems you encounter regarding groceries, food options, homesickness, or anything else! I'll make sure to help you with anything that may be bothering you, and we can work together to find solutions!
It's always nice to have a helping hand or hear stories from a friend about living in Hong Kong, whether you're an international student or a local. So please don't hesitate to contact me for a walk, a chat, or a cup of tea!
Hi! My name is Swann and I'm a Year 4 English Language & Literature Major, working part-time as a freelance tutor and creative. I'm half-Indonesian, half Eurasian, and am ecstatic to help as a cultural ambassador. Feel free to ask me any questions about settling into HKBU and Hong Kong as a whole! I speak English, passable Bahasa Indonesia, and somewhat less passable Français.
Some little tidbits about me are that I love pilates/barre, the ocean, and all animals by extension. If you're looking for recommendations for ethical cat cafes, cheap bookshops, or a cute reformer studio, I'm your guy. When I'm not studying you can occasionally find me curled up in the library with a good book (huge fan of Nabokov!), looking up niche historical facts, or writing Substack articles to procrastinate on my own essays...
The mental health of my friends also matters greatly to me- if you find yourself struggling throughout the semester, I am armed with a singing bowl and lots of hugs and advice. Take care and have a blessed day!
Pacific Coffee Attachment Programme
Attention International Students!
Pacific Coffee is now offering on-campus part-time job opportunities.
To apply, please come to the Campus Life & Amenities Unit counter located at Room 201, 2/F, Jockey Club Campus of Creativity, for an application form.
This is an exciting opportunity to gain valuable work experience while studying on campus. Following selection, some of you will be invited to an interview to join the Pacific Coffee team.
Don't miss out on this chance to be a part of a fun and dynamic team! We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Life@HKBU
We invite you to share your stories! Kindly fill out the form to submit your article.
A Journey Worth Exploring
Coming to HKBU was a dream come true for me and I still remember the first day I stepped onto the campus. Before taking that first step, I could feel a surge of excitement, knowing that a world of opportunities awaited me behind those doors. At that moment, I asked myself, "What's next?", and in my search for an answer, I set foot into a new journey of exploration.
Since my arrival at HKBU, I have been enlightened by all the talented individuals I have met, and I am deeply grateful for what I have learnt from them. For instance, during summer research experience with my physics professor and her PhD students, I learned and implemented various computer vision techniques, such as object classification and segmentation, for developing a 3D single-cell imaging pipeline capable of tracking cancer and immune cells. After contributing to their research, I was sure that I wanted to continue working on more of such impactful projects.
As I embraced the opportunities to build and create, I developed a simplified statutory wage calculator to help domestic workers in Hong Kong. As part of the Redesigning Student Learning Experience in Higher Education (RSLEHE) Project, I created a series of generative AI chatbots to enhance academic writing skills among freshmen at HKBU.
Currently, together with the Fipa team, I am passionately developing a startup aimed at assisting veterinarians and cat owners with diagnosis of a fatal cat disease called Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP). With over six months of dedication, we secured our victory at the Dean’s Cup Business Innovation Gymnasium (BIG) and we look forward to the triumphs that await us.
Complementing my projects and experience with competitions. I also had the honor of being the exclusive student panelist at the CUHK Conference on Generative AI in Higher Education, the MC at the 68th Convocation Ceremony, and a speaker at the Hong Kong Academy. I am genuinely grateful to HKBU for making my journey ever so fruitful and filled with unforgettable moments I will always cherish in my life. I wish to share these experiences and the joy of discovery with every HKBU student, serving as a guiding companion on their journeys. This is why I have found it fulfilling to take on leadership roles such as peer mentor and cultural ambassador. As I take further steps on this path, I am committed to continue empowering the next wave of leaders to explore every opportunity they can imagine because it is within this curiosity that we often find a miraculous discovery.
exclusive student panelist at the CUHK Conference on Generative AI in Higher Education
MC at the 68th Convocation Ceremony
As a speaker at the Hong Kong Academy
Fipa team - secured the victory at the Dean’s Cup Business Innovation Gymnasium (BIG)
Greetings everyone! I am Seng Hkawn, a third-year accounting major from Myanmar studying at Hong Kong Baptist University. Before delving into my experiences at HKBU, I feel compelled to share the fascinating background of my identity and where I hail from, which is intertwined with my immigration journey. I come from the Jinghpaw ethnic group, which is also called Singhpo in India and Jingpo in China. My hometown, Myitkyina, is situated roughly two hours from China to the east and seven hours from India to the west. Growing up in a small town, I never imagined that I would have the opportunity to study at HKBU, let alone in Hong Kong. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the admission manager for her unwavering support during the admission process, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and for extending outreach efforts beyond urban areas to ethnic minority communities to promote HKBU.
As a recipient of the Belt and Road Scholarship, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to HKBU for providing a wide range of financial aid options, including scholarships, sponsorships, and part-time on-campus jobs. This support has allowed me to pursue higher education in Hong Kong. Moreover, the various centres within the university, such as the career centre, leadership and qualitative centres, and international offices, offer a plethora of programs and opportunities, including job opportunities, leadership programs, and student exchange programs. As a result, my student life at HKBU has been a colourful and fruitful journey. During my first year in Hong Kong, I faced challenges adapting to the fast-paced lifestyle and homesickness. However, I was fortunate to meet a kind non-local mentor who introduced me to a group of international students from different countries residing in the same building. Cooking and exploring the city with them helped me overcome my homesickness. Now, I have made friends from Hong Kong, Morocco, India, Kenya, Mainland China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and even various parts of Myanmar. They have made Hong Kong feel like home to me.
Thanks to the School's support, I've been fortunate to participate in a variety of programs that have enriched my knowledge and provided me with unique experiences. For example, during my first-year summer break, I completed a remote accounting internship in Singapore, which was arranged by the Career Center. Starting in my second year, I also worked as a part-time barista at Pacific Coffee on campus and a student helper at the Career Center. These experiences helped me gain practical skills, and financial independence, and even made some great friends. Additionally, in my second year, I took part in a community experience project offered by the Leadership Qualitative Center and volunteered at a local youth centre, which allowed me to connect with local people and gain valuable insights. Currently, I'm participating in an extended exchange program in Zhuhai, China, arranged by the International Office. This has allowed me to explore mainland China and now I'm on a student study trip in the Middle East to learn about and appreciate the rich Arabic culture.
The opportunities, resources, and support that I have received have been truly invaluable, and I am incredibly grateful for the chance to be a part of such an esteemed academic community of Hong Kong Baptist University.
Colorful Student Life at HKBU
If everything happens for a reason, then a young person from a developing nation will have the best opportunity to study at Hong Kong Baptist University for the reasons I could ever imagine.
There are many exciting prospects for me as an international student from Myanmar at Hong Kong Baptist University. Due to the opportunity to study marketing and entrepreneurship, two fields of study I am enthusiastic about, as well as the abundance of learning opportunities that make my study as a student at HKBU "COLORFUL," my stay here can therefore be described as "DYNAMIC."
I remember the Admission Manager saying, "Create a colorful student life at HKBU" during the Zoom orientation session for 2022 admission students. By taking use of this amazing opportunity to study at Hong Kong Baptist University, I am creating a vibrant university student life by participating in campus events and ensuring that I study what I am passionate about. As a result, the student life at HKBU is an excellent stepping stone for my career preparation, complete with a vibrant community.
During my colorful student life at HKBU, I formed an enjoyable community not just with international students but also with local students by participating in numerous HKBU programs. By becoming a Student Ambassador at the School of Business HKBU, I obtained valuable public speaking skills and a larger network with my local friends to learn about Hong Kong culture. As a Belt and Road Scholarship Recipient, I attended the 2023 Belt and Road Summit as Myanmar's Student Ambassador, where I learned valuable information about the Asia Market for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Investment. Aside from these types of student ambassador moments, one of the most colorful aspects of a student's life is participating in the service trip organized by Hong Kong Baptist University's Leadership and Quality Center. I gained a great lesson about broadening one's horizons by absorbing knowledge from diverse civilizations. In addition, I always go hiking and enjoy the sunsets at Hong Kong's stunning beaches during my free time.
In addition to studying what I love, I have been participating in a number of student activities, which have given me a lot of learning opportunities. These kinds of events gave me a fantastic opportunity to get to know myself better and discover my potential at HKBU in a plethora of vibrant ways!
How colorful HKBU student life is!
ALI is one of our Cultural Ambassadors from Bangladesh. As a dedicated representative of his country and a passionate advocate for cross-cultural understanding, ALI has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and inclusivity at HKBU. Through his unique experiences and perspective, ALI has enriched the lives of both local and international students, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation. Let us now hear directly from ALI as he shares his inspiring journey and the impact of being a Cultural Ambassador at HKBU.
The Bengali New Year, also known as Pohela Boishakh, is a significant cultural celebration for Bengalis all over the world. As a cultural ambassador and a student leader, organising the Bengali New Year 2023 event at HKBU was one of the most important and impressive experiences of my life. It was a huge undertaking, and one that I had never attempted before. But with the support of my team, we were able to pull it off successfully, and it was the first time that the event had ever been organized in the history of HKBU. The celebration was a symbol of hope, new beginnings, and prosperity. It was a lot of work, but I was passionate about making it happen, and was committed to making it a success. The day of the event was truly unforgettable. We had decorated the venue with colorful banners and cultural decorations, and the traditional Bengali food that we had arranged was a huge hit with everyone who attended. We even performed a few local dances and singing performances, and they put on a mesmerizing show that had everyone on their feet. The atmosphere was electric, and it was amazing to see so many people coming together to celebrate the Bengali New Year. It was an incredible feeling to be a part of something so historic, and to see the impact that it had on the community. The event brought people together, and it helped to promote cultural awareness and understanding. It was a reminder of the importance of celebrating our differences, and of the power of community. It was an opportunity for everyone to celebrate and showcase their culture and traditions. The event also served as a platform for non-Bengali students to learn more about the Bengali culture and appreciate its beauty. It was a celebration of hope, joy, and the spirit of togetherness. The event was a resounding success, and I hope that it becomes an annual tradition at HKBU, bringing together students from all backgrounds to celebrate the Bengali culture. Since you can have the privilege of organising cultural events, you have the power to make a positive impact in the community. You can bring people together from different cultural backgrounds to share their traditions, beliefs, and customs.
This programme aims to promote cultural understanding and respect among different communities and create a more inclusive society. Lastly, you can improve your leadership skills and experience to mentor and support other young people who are interested in making a positive impact in their communities. By sharing your knowledge and experience, you can inspire and empower the next generation of leaders to create positive change in the world. In conclusion, joining the cultural ambassador programme was an experience that I will always cherish. It taught me so much about leadership, teamwork, and the power of community, and it showed me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Gaston HONORE
Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons.) (HKBU-NEOMA Business School Double Degree Programme) Entrepreneurship
My name is Gaston Honore. I am a 22-year-old Frenchman now pursuing a double degree in International Management and Entrepreneurship at HKBU. I had time to visit several monuments in Hong Kong (blue house, 10 thousands Bouda and many temples). I am passionate about Asian culture, being a student here is a good opportunity, the city is very dynamic, it is challenging. How can I talk about Hong Kong without mentioning the food, I enjoy discovering the different Chinese and local dishes. I have just started my studies in Hong Kong and I am already convinced that I have made the right choice. It's full of professional opportunities here. Besides, Hong Kong is also an extremely international city which makes it easy to discover new cultures and make many friends.
Sharon TAN
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Visual Arts
Stepping into a foreign country on my own was one of the most challenging and life-changing decisions I'd ever made. As an Indonesian student, I was easily perplexed by Hong Kong's new culture and lifestyle, where everything is fast-paced and, at times, individualistic. When I first arrived, knowing almost no one, it was easy to feel lonely as I walked through campus for the first time. Despite the feeling of anxiety that came rushing in, Hong Kong Baptist University has provided me with a warm and inviting community. I remember my non-local mentor from the halls treating me to lunch on my first day and showing me around campus; a fellow friend brought me over for dinner and showed me around Hong Kong. And even though I was far away from home, the pleasant and welcoming atmosphere of HKBU had made me feel at peace. I was able to develop unexpected new friendships that I absolutely treasure now, and that itself has broadened my perspective as I hang out with my people from various countries and backgrounds. Because of the diverse population, I decided to join in a language exchange; HKBU connected me with a super nice local student (who I now consider a really good friend!) so that I could learn Cantonese and familiarize myself with Hong Kong culture.
Aside from the variety in forming new relationships, HKBU gives several possibilities for students to try out new activities. As a student helper, I once took part in a collaborative art fair where we taught the elderly different ways of producing art; it was nice to see them take the time to come to campus and socialize with us.Not to mention the numerous events that HKBU hosts and promotes, such as the "BU Ideas Galore!" start-up competition in which my friends and I competed in. These opportunities have broadened my horizons and enabled me to explore new knowledge outside of my current major (Visual Arts). Even having an already multi-cultural student body at HKBU, the university never settles and always allows us to engage with students from across the world, such as the global case challenge with Ryerson University students that I participated in at the end of March! We were able to meet new friends and collaborate together over the week. Maybe for international students who may be concerned about their needs, HKBU not only provides extensive financial assistance, but also offers us the option to work as a part-time employee on campus. As for myself, I was fortunate to get hired as a graphic designer at HKBU's European Documentation Center, where I was able to meet new people and receive valuable experience working in a sector connected to my degree.
Particularly while we are in class, the professors always facilitate and are eager to help us after class. I 've learned so much by discussing ideas with not just my lecturers, but also my classmates! HKBU made the learning experience more hands-on and engaging by inviting us to valuable Co-Curricular Learning talks or seminars, and even organizing a field trip to a Central art gallery! HKBU has always been supportive of my path into being a university student who can experience a variety of interesting and exciting activities despite the constraints of the pandemic, from the admission process to the conclusion of my freshman year. I am so thankful and glad that I am able to receive this award from the university, to create valuable memories with friends and learn so much in class and outside of class from my first year at HKBU. I will continue to work and study hard to make valuable contributions to the community!