PolyU has long fostered international partnerships, offering students unique opportunities to expand their horizons. As of June 2025, PolyU has established global partnerships with over 360 academic institutions across more than 40 countries and regions. More than 600 academic collaboration agreements have been signed, encompassing student exchange, joint research collaboration projects and more – reflecting PolyU’s mission to nurture socially responsible professionals and leaders with a strong sense of national pride and a global perspective.

Recently, we celebrated this spirit of global engagement at the vibrant Global Exchange Fair on 9 October at Logo Square. Students explored various exchange opportunities at the information booth, enjoyed the AI photo booth, and connected with peers worldwide. The event also featured Exchange Returnee Cultural Sharing sessions, where students who have studied abroad shared their inspiring stories and cultural experiences.

Pulse spoke with four students who participated in exchange programmes and shared their inspiring stories of studying abroad.

From warm climates to snowy landscapes: Discovering opportunities and friendships

Sashenka Gamage brought her own violin and enjoyed performing for various occasions during her exchange.

Sashenka Gamage, now a Year 4 student of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Sri Lanka, shared her enriching exchange experience at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the United States (the U. S.). She chose Wisconsin to experience snow for the first time and to engage deeply with her field of study, particularly in robotics.

During her semester, Sashenka enjoyed a vibrant campus life, including attendance at major sports events and participation in the university string orchestra, as she is a keen violinist. Academically, she took courses like Introduction to Robotics and engaged in research projects, enhancing her understanding of American educational culture, which emphasises depth over breadth.

Professionally, the experience allowed her to connect with professors and peers, significantly expanding her network in the robotics field. Personally, she matured through solo travels across the U.S., gaining confidence and a broader global perspective.

Sashenka highly recommended the exchange programme to fellow students, "The application process may seem daunting, but the enriching experiences, friendships, and personal growth make it worthwhile. I am so glad that PolyU offers this exciting opportunity for students to get unique insights and experience that are invaluable for our future."

From self-discovery and beyond: A path for growth and global connections

Dylan Zheng (first left) in the photo on the right.

Dylan Zheng, currently a Year 4 student of the Department of Computing from Xian, China, spent his last semester at the University at Buffalo in New York, drawn by the opportunity to travel and experience American college life. He found the living conditions remarkable but faced initial challenges due to the city’s vastness and limited public transportation. However, after connecting with friends, including local and international students, he embraced the experience and began exploring nearby cities like Toronto.

Calling himself an ‘A.I. person’, Dylan excelled academically in advanced computer science subjects, benefiting from the innovative teaching methods and up-to-date resources. He highlighted the importance of adaptability, stating that personal growth often occurs when stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

Dylan emphasised the value of forming connections and the unique cultural openness in America, which fostered friendships that transcended distance. He recommended, "The exchange programme broadened my perspectives, and offered an enhancement in personal and professional skills, and of course created lasting global connections." His experience not only enriched his academic journey but also equipped him with essential life skills, making him more independent and resilient.

From judo passion to birthplace of Sake: Embracing heritage and tourism insights

Erskine Sun enjoys travelling in Japan as well as having some good times with new friends he met.

Erskine Sun, a Year 4 student at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management, coming from Qingdao, China, shared his fulfilling exchange experience at the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Beppu, Oita province in Japan. He chose this destination to immerse himself in Japanese culture, influenced by his interest in judo and past travels to Japan. Taking nine courses, all offered in English, he appreciated the flexibility in course selection and the supportive environment for international students.

He gained valuable insights into tourism from a Japanese perspective, enhancing his understanding of global tourism issues. "I am a certified international kikisake-shi (sake sommelier in English). This exchange also gave me a chance to explore Japan’s diverse sake culture, which is lacking in Hong Kong."

The slower pace of life in cities like Hiroshima was another aspect Erskine enjoyed. He immersed himself in local culture through various activities. Erskine emphasised that the experience of studying abroad is far more valuable than just earning academic credits, as it fosters personal growth and a broader worldview. He recommends the exchange programme to fellow students, noting that its success depends on individual interests, habits, and academic goals, encouraging others to embrace the opportunity to learn and grow in a cultural setting.

From cross-cultural discovery to global diversity: Bridging cultures and expanding horizons

Yolo Ji (left) in the photo on the right and his Korean teacher.

Yolo Ji, a Year 2 student from the School of Accounting and Finance, participated in the summer programme at Kyunghee University in Seoul, Korea, motivated by the desire to expand his horizons in Asia. The programme featured engaging classes, including Korean language and a thought-provoking course on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), taught by former UNESCO Director-General Irina Borkova as one of the instructors. "These enriching experiences not only offered me deep insights into pressing societal issues but also fostered a fun and interactive learning environment, making my academic journey even more rewarding," remarked by Yolo.

During his time in Seoul, Yolo explored cultural landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and engaged in various activities, enhancing his understanding of local customs. He valued the chance to connect with international classmates from diverse backgrounds, which enriched his perspective on societal challenges, particularly in the Korean context.

Professionally and personally, Yolo gained essential communication skills and a broader worldview, making him more adaptable and culturally aware. He highly recommends the exchange programme to fellow students, emphasising the importance of being open-minded, respecting local traditions, and actively engaging with peers. Yolo believes that the experience not only enhances academic knowledge but also fosters meaningful friendships and unforgettable memories, making it a worthwhile opportunity for personal growth.