CW Chu College The Chinese University of Hong Kong eNewsletter

By Ms CHEUNG Hoi Shan Charlotte (Year 3, Medicine)

‘Add oil, Charlotte. We shall see each other again.’ The encouragement from Elisa ROSSI, my exchange roommate from Sorbonne University, during her farewell meal conjured up our memories in CW Chu College (CWC).

It all started in September, in Room 613, when I was assigned as Elisa's roommate for the first term of 2022–23. It was such an exciting and refreshing experience to have an exchange student as my roommate. Not only can I constantly interact with foreign students, but also to immerse into her lifestyle. My international outlook was expanded through regular idea exchange, which is a unique college life experience.

Elisa's stay in CWC has definitely brightened up my college life. From the early morning study sessions, to the exploration of a myriad of Asian food together, we have strengthened our bonds and fostered lifelong friendship. One of the most unforgettable memories would be the 25 kilometres night bike from CUHK to the Plover Cove with other CWC friends. The endless chat and the unwavering support along the way further enhanced our mutual understanding. I am very grateful to have met Elisa, as she has inspired me on how to balance academics and rest with a positive and hopeful attitude.

The 3.5 months passed in a flash. Even though Elisa flew back to Paris in December, we still manage to keep in contact through text and zoom revision sessions. I am also fortunate to be able to visit her in Paris in June as she would be my travel guide. I would like to express my gratitude to CWC, as the College provides a comfortable environment for exchange between local and foreign students. ‘International’ as one of the 4 ‘I’s in the college motto fully demonstrates the supportive attitude from the College in promoting international exchange. International exposure allows me to broaden my horizons, which is a rewarding and precious learning experience.

‘I got a new tattoo about you today in Hong Kong Island, guess the pattern!’ Elisa asked me when she came back one night. When I was still in awe of her getting a tattoo in Hong Kong, she burst with a big smile, ‘It's “add oil”! I like the phrase and the meaning of it.’ Indeed, this college experience has been a special one for me and her. The fond memories created will forever be carved in our hearts.

By Ms Elisa ROSSI (Incoming exchange student, Term 1, 2022–23, from Sorbonne University, France)

As my home university does not have a college system, the possibility of experiencing college life was probably one of the most intriguing aspects of CUHK…but it was also one I was a little apprehensive about before leaving home. However, all my fears evaporated when I met Charlotte: that evening we decided to go out for a typical Hong Kong dessert and, as we chatted those first hours away, we immediately felt that we were a very good match for each other.

My experience in Hong Kong and in CUHK was nothing short of amazing. The university opens up to a great deal of excellent opportunities, from activities and trips proposed by the Office of Academic Links and suggestions by teachers and classmates. For example, during my term in Hong Kong I was able to participate in teaching English to a class of kids in a primary school in Cheung Chau, to get involved in poetry gatherings in Central on Wednesday evenings and to take part in a few trips around the city. CW Chu was a home away from home for all the international students who were lucky enough to spend their time there. The College hosted a variety of events that allowed us to be introduced to Hong Kong culture and to share a bit of our own with other students: we had for example the opportunity to celebrate our first Mid-Autumn Festival and a special Thanksgiving dinner animated by a group of American students. I was also very excited to take part in one of the High Table Dinners, a special night in which we really felt part of the College.

I loved each of my adventures in Hong Kong, and one of the best parts was running back to my room and telling everything to my roommate while sipping a cup of tea (and procrastinating on our homework!). Charlotte is a dear friend, who was patient enough to teach me some Chinese, to introduce me to Hong Kong culture, and to help me whenever I needed. She also introduced me to her friends, and together we went cycling (for more than 20 kilometres!), we had fun during communal dinners and we went to an Italian restaurant to try some specialties from my home country. I am grateful to CWC for the chance to meet these amazing people whom I miss a lot now, back in Europe. However, my Hong Kong life is not just a memory to cherish: I still keep in touch with the friends I met there… and my roommate is coming to Paris to visit!