Each summer, PolyU’s campus welcomes a vibrant mix of young minds from around the world. Some arrive to experience university life for the first time. Others come for new academic perspectives or opportunities to explore their research aspirations.

The University’s flagship summer programmes, the Summer Institute (SI), International Summer School (ISS) and International Research Summer School (IRSS), continue to attract students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, advancing PolyU’s internationalisation efforts while contributing to Hong Kong’s “Study in Hong Kong” initiative. Through immersive learning, cultural exchange and meaningful connections, participants gain far more than academic knowledge. They leave with broader perspectives, new friendships and a deeper understanding of the opportunities that await them in an increasingly interconnected world.

First steps towards the future

For many secondary school students, the Summer Institute offers an exciting introduction to university life. Over several days of residential learning this summer, participants were immersed in a dynamic environment that combines academic exploration, activities and campus experiences. They engaged with academic staff members, collaborated with fellow students from different countries and discovered subjects ranging from innovation and technology to design and entrepreneurship.

With senior secondary school drawing to a close, local student Cintia Ieong claimed that the programme was more than a taste of university life. It offered her a clearer picture of both academic pathways and potential career directions. “As I prepare for university applications, this programme gave me the chance to experience different disciplines and university life. Visiting laboratories, conducting experiments and learning from industry visits helped me better understand what my subjects of interest are really about.”

Beyond the classroom, the programme encourages participants to step outside their comfort zones, develop confidence and build friendships across cultures. Experiences like these often leave a lasting impression, helping students clarify their academic interests while giving them a glimpse of the possibilities that higher education can offer.

Learning without boarder

At the undergraduate level, the International Summer School brings together students from universities across the globe for an enriching blend of academic study and cultural discovery.

Participants this year enrolled in credit-bearing courses spanning a wide range of disciplines while experiencing Hong Kong’s unique position as a crossroads between East and West. Classroom discussions were enriched by diverse perspectives, creating an environment where students learn not only from academic staff members but also from one another.

Outside their studies, students took part in cultural activities, local visits and social events that showcased the city’s vibrancy. The result was a learning experience that extends well beyond lectures, encouraging global awareness and intercultural understanding.

The combination of professional learning and cultural immersion created an unforgettable experience for Ankur Animesh from Germany, both academically and personally. “The programme was very interactive, which made learning more engaging and easier to grasp. At the same time, being in Hong Kong, meeting new people and experiencing a different culture really opened my eyes. It helped me appreciate the world from a broader perspective and reminded me of the importance of being humble and respectful to others.”

For many students, the programme becomes an opportunity to expand their horizons, challenge assumptions and build international networks that continue long after summer ends.

Ankur Animesh (2nd from left) formed friendships with peers from around the world, making the summer programme a more meaningful and memorable experience.

Inspiring the next generation of researchers

For those considering a research pathway, the International Research Summer School offers a valuable opportunity to engage with cutting-edge scholarship and explore future possibilities in postgraduate study.

Through workshops, laboratory visits and interactions with leading academics, participants gain first-hand exposure to PolyU’s research strengths in areas such as artificial intelligence, health, sustainability and emerging technologies. They also connect with researchers and potential supervisors, gaining insights into the realities and rewards of advanced research.

Just as importantly, IRSS creates a platform for talented students from around the world to exchange ideas and learn from one another in an intellectually stimulating environment.

For Zsófi Varga from Hungary, one of the highlights was gaining a first-hand look at PolyU’s research facilities and innovation ecosystem. “I really loved seeing how advanced the technology and laboratories here are. It was an amazing experience to see the different systems in operation, from robots and machines to the people working hard behind the scenes. Their commitment to research and their step-by-step approach to achieving future goals are helping make our lives better.”

These experiences help participants better understand the impact that research can have in addressing real-world challenges while strengthening their aspirations for future academic pursuits.

Although SI, ISS and IRSS serve students at different stages of their educational journey, they share a common purpose: creating opportunities for learning, discovery and connection.