For the free choice part in the third year, I chose to study a semster at a university abroad. After much hesitation and a stressful application period, I was finally admitted to the University of Hong Kong. I chose this place because I wanted to experience the real "culture shock," so an Asian metropolis seemed like a good choice. Another reason for my choice was that HKU offers many interesting geography courses with a focus on Asia and China.

Upon arrival in Hong Kong, I was immediately overwhelmed by the huge buildings, the heat and the typhoon that had just reached Hong Kong at that time. Also, my room took some getting used to at first and it soon became apparent that except for a bed and desk, there was absolutely nothing in the apartment so my first trip was to Ikea. Fortunately, everything got used super fast and I immediately met really nice people with whom I could start exploring the city.

You might know Inez from:
FeBo 17/18
Board X 18/19

I got my room through HKU's website. They offer several options for housing. Because rents are ridiculously high in Hong Kong, it is definitely recommended to live in one of the university halls or apartments. I shared an apartment with 5 other girls and sleep in a double room. HKU's campus is located on a mountain and therefore has a very nice view of the city. The quality of education depended a bit on the subject and the teacher but was generally good. However, you are asked much less for your own opinion and no real discussions take place during the working groups. I found the workload quite high especially at the end of the semester because I took 5 courses at the same time and all deadlines and exams were held in the same weeks. What I did not expect is that Hong Kong has much more to offer than the busy city life. In fact, within half an hour you can be at the beach or in nature. What is also a big advantage is that Hong Kong is very central in Asia which makes it easy and cheap to travel. I have been to Taiwan, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines.