Department of Statistics and Data Science Newsletter

Chow Ho Fung
BSc in Statistics
University of Sheffield, United Kingdom

Participating in the exchange programme at the University of Sheffield, UK, was an incredibly enriching and transformative experience, both academically and personally. The UK was my dream destination to visit and study, due to its historical and cultural environment, as well as the special relationship between the UK and Hong Kong. The opportunity to study in the UK allowed me to explore a different academic environment, engage in intercultural communication, and grow in ways I never thought possible.

One of the highlights of my time in Sheffield was the academic experience, particularly the course MAS370 – Sampling Theory and Design of Experiments. This course provided a solid foundation in planning and conducting statistical studies with efficiency and rigour. The module consisted of two parts. The first part focused on the principles of experimental design, including optimality, randomised block designs, Latin squares, Balanced incomplete block designs, and factorial designs. The second part was devoted to sampling theory, including simple random sampling, stratified sampling, and cluster sampling, as well as population size estimation. What stood out was the practical emphasis placed on designing studies to minimise bias and maximise precision, skills that are highly applicable in real-world research and industry settings. The lectures were clear and well structured, and the accompanying problem sets challenged us to apply theoretical ideas to practical problems. This course not only improved my understanding of statistical methodology but also sharpened my analytical thinking and approach to research design.

Beyond academics, the cultural dimension of the exchange programme was equally impactful. Living and studying in the UK exposed me to a rich mosaic of cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Sheffield, renowned for its friendly community and vibrant student life, proved to be an ideal setting for cultural exchange. Sheffield is a friendly and inclusive place and my university actively supports international students. The orientation sessions and academic support workshops helped to facilitate the transition and ensured that we felt included and valued.

I interacted with both local students and fellow international peers at various university events and gatherings. I lived in university-provided accommodation, in a flat full of exchange students from various countries such as Japan, South Korea, and the US. We formed a small community, cooked together, watched football together, and helped each other when needed. The University of Sheffield provided me with an inclusive environment, which was crucial in helping me adapt and thrive both academically and socially.

Food, language, and social customs were other areas where cultural differences were both notable and fascinating. From trying fish and chips and English breakfasts in traditional British pubs to navigating the subtleties of British humour and politeness, as well as the social context in the UK, every interaction became an opportunity to learn. I also took the initiative to share my own culture by participating in international evenings where I introduced others to the social environment and gastronomy of Hong Kong, revealing the similarities and differences between various countries. These exchanges fostered mutual understanding and created friendships that transcended national boundaries.

In summary, my exchange programme at the University of Sheffield was an unforgettable experience. The intellectual stimulation of courses such as MAS370 – Sampling Theory and Design of Experiments, combined with rich cultural interactions, broadened my worldview and enhanced my personal and academic development. I return not only with new knowledge and skills but also with cherished memories and lasting friendships. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and strongly encourage others to take part in such a life-changing journey.

Thanapat Klungnak
BSc in Risk Management Science
The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia

During my exchange semester I enrolled in four courses – Multivariate Analysis, Time Series Analysis, Introduction to Graphic Design, and Communicating Sustainability. This was a mix of two courses related to my major, Risk Management Science, and two electives based on my personal interests. I chose electives that were different from my core discipline as I wanted to explore new teaching styles in Australia and learn something new outside of my academic focus. Unlike my past school experiences, in which exams were common, these courses are primarily graded through projects and reports. This allowed me to engage with the content and apply what I have learned in real-life situations. It was a valuable experience that exposed me to alternative learning styles and helped me reflect on which styles suit me best.

One of the highlights of my exchange was working on group projects with people from different cultures and academic backgrounds. Through conversations and collaborations, we exchanged our experiences, which made me feel more connected to the university community. Adapting to the local environment also helped me improve my communication skills and become more flexible in unfamiliar environments.

In conclusion, the exchange programme to Australia was an unforgettable experience for me. From exploring the new academic environment in RMIT to immersing myself in a culturally rich city, the experience helped me develop both academically and personally. Over the five-month period, I developed not only technical skills related to my major discipline but also soft skills such as independence and adaptability. I am confident that what I have gained during the exchange programme will benefit me during my final year at CUHK and as I move forward in my career.

Liu Songyu
BSc in Quantitative Finance and Risk Management Science
University of Toronto, Canada

From January to May 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the BBA Exchange Programme at Rotman Commerce, University of Toronto, in Toronto, Canada. This exchange experience not only allowed me to progress academically but also helped me to grow personally by stepping out of my comfort zone and exploring a completely different culture and lifestyle.

Academically, I enrolled in five courses, such as Stochastic Processes, Financial Derivatives, and Fixed Income. These courses were highly relevant to my major and allowed me to gain an even deeper understanding of complex financial models and risk management tools. Unlike the more lecture-based approach I am used to in Hong Kong, the Canadian teaching style emphasises class participation, interactive discussions, and real-world case studies. This interactive learning environment encouraged me to think critically, contribute actively, and develop greater independence. Beyond my core subjects, I also enrolled in several social science classes, which was one of the most eye-opening aspects of my exchange. Listening to Canadian professors and students discuss issues related to Hong Kong and Asia from a global and often contrasting perspective gave me a chance to reflect on my own background and identity. These experiences have broadened my worldview, encouraging me to think more deeply about my future and the role I want to play in the world.

The most challenging but also the most memorable part of my exchange was meeting foreigners and forming new friendships. My personal goal was to connect with students from different countries and cultures. However, I quickly realised that making friends was not as easy as I had imagined. Language barriers posed a constant challenge, especially when trying to keep up with fast-paced conversations filled with slang and cultural references unfamiliar to me. Additionally, I became acutely aware of cultural differences – what people found funny, the shows they watched growing up, or even their way of communicating – all of which were often very different from my own experience and the “standard English” I had learnt. Despite these difficulties, I gradually became more confident and open. I learnt to ask questions, to listen actively, and to be patient with myself and others.

During weekends and holidays, I took the opportunity to explore Canada from coast to coast. I visited cities such as Vancouver, Yellowknife, Montreal, and Quebec. Each place had its own unique charm, cultural flavour, and natural beauty. Travelling across the country allowed me to witness the diversity of Canada, not just in its landscapes but also in its people and lifestyles. These trips gave me a broader and more inclusive perspective on the world.

In conclusion, this exchange programme was a life-changing experience. It pushed me to confront my fears, embrace the unfamiliar, and grow both academically and personally. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and believe that the lessons I have learnt, both inside and outside the classroom, will continue to shape my outlook and decisions for years to come. This exchange was not just a chapter in my academic journey but a precious memory and a valuable lesson in my global citizenship development.