CW Chu College The Chinese University of Hong Kong eNewsletter

Miss Caro AALDERINK is an exchange student from Leiden University in The Netherlands during Term 2, 2016–17. Miss Haruka TERADA is a Japanese exchange student from Keio University in the Academic Year 2016–2017. They share with us their experience in Hong Kong.

By Miss Caro AALDERINK

I chose Hong Kong as my 'study-abroad' destination mainly because there was so much about Hong Kong that I did not know. In fact, all I knew was that Hong Kong was home to a lot of people, and that it was definitely a much bigger city than my home town. I came without expectations, not knowing what Hong Kong and The Chinese University of Hong Kong would have to offer.

It is funny to look back now and realise how much Hong Kong has surprised and amazed me. I am proud to say that it has become my 'home away from home'. I have developed a sense of belonging that CW Chu College played an important role in building. After I had arrived, I quickly made friends here, and CWC offered the perfect backdrop for our movie nights, chill get-togethers and study sessions. In my home town, we do not have a campus, college residences, or roommates. I loved experiencing life on this beautiful campus, in such a beautiful residence, and with a really sweet roommate who showed me that sharing a room really is not so bad at all! Despite being an independent person, it was nice to feel well taken care of at CWC. One night, after training at the gym, I was sitting down to catch my breath. Within five minutes, a staff member of CWC came to ask if I was doing okay. I was fine but knowing that people were looking out for me made me feel welcomed and safe.

I will remember CW Chu College as a perfect host for my stay in Hong Kong. With its many facilities and nice people around at all times, it offered a warm and safe base for me to fully enjoy my experience abroad. Big thanks to everyone who contributed to the fantastic time I had here—I sure will carry this memory with me forever!

By Miss Haruka TERADA

Hello, I am Haruka! How are you, my CW Chu College friends? I stayed at CWC for eight months last academic year, and had a wonderful time with my dorm mates! I would like to share with you my experience here.

My CWC life started with the High Table Dinner, during which all the students had a gorgeous full course meal in College gowns. I felt as if I went to Hogwarts! I chatted with my new friends from Hong Kong and the rest of China and Switzerland. I was really happy because I realised that I could enjoy conversations in English, and that my new friends were kind and pleasant people. Actually I struggled with my English and communication skills at first but in time I overcame such difficulties and had a wonderful time at CWC. CWC had great facilities, such as a Fitness Room, TV Room and Music Room, which met all my needs. In the Music Room, I practiced the viola for joining Chung Chi Orchestra in the summer, and played the piano when I felt stressed about my studies. I felt very comfortable even when I sometimes spent a whole day at CWC without going anywhere else. By the way, I really like the fancy coffee cart outside the canteen! I had some really good times watching movies with my fellow exchange students from various countries in the TV Room. We bought snacks and watched Hollywood movies and a Mexican movie on Netflix. I also enjoyed cooking and eating Japanese foods like Sushi and Okonomiyaki with friends. My Chinese friends cooked their home towns' cuisines for me, which were delicious, and it was really fun. Cooking and eating together is an easy and good way to communicate.

Other than hanging out with my friends, I enjoyed many activities at CWC too. For example, I tried Chinese calligraphy writing at Chinese New Year and had fun in the Wing Chun class, during which I learned more about Chinese culture and deepened my friendship with my new CWC friends.

Because of all the nice people, good facilities, and interesting activities, I felt at home at CWC. Thank you so much and see you again!!