HKUST

  Clearwater Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Saturday, September 1, 2007

For those who do not know... I am currently studying abroad at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in Clearwater Bay, Kowloon.  I am taking some Business classes, Asian Studies classes and Putonghua.  So far this experience has been inexplicable... I encourage all of you to study abroad, and if Hong Kong is where you want to go, I highly recommend you to study at this university.  I was amazed by how beautiful the campus looked. Situated near Sai Cong, surrounded by the water and the mountains, the environment poses more of a study distraction than a study center. Outside my dorm window I see islands and a mass of blue water.  I feel like I'm on resort and this 4 month exchange period is an imitation of Real World- Hong Kong. 

If you know me then you know that when school is in session, I'm MIA, hitting my books, and stressing over exams.  However, my main prerogative right now, is to travel, travel and TRAVEL.  Although I am taking 17 credits and still trying to graduate early I am taking my course load quite lightly.  I thought HKUST classes will be a joke, but on the contrary, it is fairly difficult.  However, some HKUST professors give some leeway to exchange students because they know of our travel agendas. 

There are about 200 exchange students at this program from all over the world.  I hang out with students from the states, UK, Denmark, Poland, Sweden, Korea, Canada, and France... countries from all over Europe.  We also have a buddy program in the College of Business.  My two buddies, Gypsy and Joanna will be attending Lehigh next semester.  They have been very helpful assisting my transition in this country. 

The first couple of weeks, I visited Stanley Market, Victoria's Peak, and TST light show.

TST light show

I pretty much got used to the HK lifestyle pretty quickly.  The MTR system here is fascinating; NYC should learn something from here.  HK also has a thing called Octopus Card which is similar to our Metrocards but is much more convenient.  We can swipe our Octopus Card at the local 7/11 or any other convenience store for quick purchases. 

 Been doing the heavy duty partying at Lan Kwai Fong

Lan Kwai Fong

and Tribeca.

Partying in Tribeca

Practically everyday is a weekend and theres always people going out.

Pregaming UG HALL 1

Shopping has been fun! I've been to Mong Kok's Ladie's Market,

Mong Kok Shopping

Temple Street shopping

Temple street shopping "Mui Gai"

, eating local street food

Street Food

Street Food in Temple St.