In high school, I studied the “Asian Miracle” – the immense growth of the economies of the Asian nations. At that time, I could not comprehend how these countries were able to completely turn developing nations into strong emerging markets, highly recognized by the rest of the world. The “Asian miracle” fueled my interest in the world of Economics and even then, wanted to know more. I wanted to understand this “miracle”; the policies that drove this rate of growth and even more intriguing, the time frame in which it was achieved. When I discovered that there was a school that offered all the classes I needed in one of the countries I have been in awe of since I can remember, fate decided, opportunity found me ready and I knew it was meant to be. I was going to Hong Kong.
Upon my arrival, I was determined to learn all about the culture, the people and the country. In an effort to do so, I tailored all my time and classes in Hong Kong towards that goal. I believed that my experience here was going to be determined by the classes I took and the places I visited. Now, I understand that the popular saying, “Experience is the best teacher” could not be more relevant.
During my time in Hong Kong, I have visited most of the tourist attractions and historic sites, some of the surrounding islands and even witnessed one of the biggest typhoons to ever hit the country, Typhoon Mangkhut; my time in Hong Kong has been interesting to say the least. But merely, being in an environment with people that have different cultural values and beliefs, eating their food, speaking (or trying to in my case) their language is in itself an education.
I’ll tell you this for free – there is no place like Hong Kong. Like I have said before, It is a mix of the deepest parts of Lagos, Nigeria and New York City, USA with the street food and busy streets, tall buildings and bright lights. It is the best form of organized chaos, where there are millions of people walking down a street, with arrows that guide your movement to be strictly abided by. I have learnt things that the classes I signed up for would never have taught me and I now understand why being in an environment that interests you is a hundred times better than reading about it.
It’s been four months since I arrived at Hong Kong International Airport, bright-eyed and expectant and going on this program is still one of the best decisions I have ever made. Being in Hong Kong has not only allowed me to appreciate this part of the world; but it has also given me an opportunity to learn more about myself as an individual; how I handle being out of my comfort zone, adapt to new environments or even make new friends.
You have followed me through a lot of my journey. You’ve seen how I handled time difference, allergies, making new friends and even the co-op search abroad. It was not always easy, but it was definitely always interesting. I achieved most of what I wanted to achieve while in Hong Kong. I went to the additional 5 countries I wrote about. Pro-tip, South Korea is amazing but to avoid becoming a popsicle, do not go in the middle of December.
I participated in a few clubs and sports; still have a sprained ankle from rugby but it was definitely worth it. I made a few good friends but the hard part is saying goodbye to all of them. But best of all, I ate good food (see the post on best food around Asia). In a lot of ways Hong Kong was exactly what I expected but in others it was more and I intend to take everything I have learnt back with me.
The Northeastern Husky Ambassadors have a saying, “We all have stories to tell, what will yours be?” I intend to make my time in Hong Kong a significant part of my story. At a time like this, in which the world is truly one global village; it is fundamental for everyone to understand the importance of having a wide view of this world’s different cultures. So, I urge you to go wherever your interest lies. There are hidden treasures to discover both within yourself and in whatever country you decide to visit. Make your experience a part of your story; when you come back be sure to tell us all about it!
Bye Home Kong!
Till next time.
