A global hub for talent: How international students thrive at PolyU

PolyU strives to be an innovative world-class university with an international and multicultural environment for learning, teaching, and research. With over 14,000 non-local students in the 2025/26 academic year, the University is dedicated to fostering an inclusive campus embracing diversity. Students like Craig Kandiro from Kenya and Agnia Golenkevich from Belarus share how PolyU ignites their enthusiasm through research, cultural discovery and a vibrant campus life.

New horizons: A promising talent in data science and AI

Pursuing knowledge across borders, second-year data science and artificial intelligence (AI) student Craig from Kenya has found both challenge and inspiration at PolyU. Drawn by the University’s strong global reputation – with data science and AI ranked among the world’s top 40 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 – Craig says, “Having excelled in A-level mathematics and computer science, PolyU’s innovative approach and outstanding programme that combines these two disciplines made it an easy choice for me.”

Nearly 6,000 miles from home, Craig is building his future through research that matters. Under the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Scheme (URIS), which promotes undergraduate research to cultivate the next generation of innovators, he leads a project titled “Quantifying Solar Energy Risks in Africa: A Machine Learning and Simulation Approach to Guide Policy and Investment”. “I want to leverage AI to build a powerful calculator assessing solar plant investments in Africa and investor returns,” he explains. “My goal is to help my people back home, too.”

The experience has transformed Craig’s academic ambitions. Once unsure about postgraduate study, he now hopes to pursue a master’s or PhD, possibly staying in Hong Kong. “URIS showed me how research can make a real-world impact,” he says. Through the scheme, Craig has also become a member of the College of Undergraduate Researchers and Innovators (CURI), which connects students engaged in research. Living at the CURI Residential College – which fosters academic excellence and research innovation through inquiry-based learning, supported by a dedicated Master and Resident Fellows – he is surrounded by motivated peers and mentors. Inspired by this environment, Craig is motivated to aim higher every day.

Outside the classroom, Craig enjoys a well-rounded university life. He often spends quiet time in the library’s study zones but also embraces the lively spirit of campus recreation. “I love the energy of football at Block X, where I meet friends every Sunday,” he smiles. These moments of camaraderie have deepened his sense of belonging and made his experience at PolyU even more rewarding.

Adjusting to Hong Kong has been a heartening journey. “It reminds me of home in many ways,” Craig reflects. “Both here and in Kenya, tea brings people together. It’s the small traditions that make me feel connected.”

To students back home considering studying abroad, Craig’s advice is simple yet sincere: “Don’t be afraid. Hong Kong may seem fast-paced at first, but PolyU’s welcoming community and research opportunities will help you thrive.”

Opening a new world: A people-focused learner in an international campus

From another corner of the world, first-year Agnia from Belarus is discovering her own path through PolyU’s international community. Majoring in applied social sciences, she believes learning is not just about reading theories, but also about understanding people and cultures. “Social sciences rely on understanding different perspectives,” she says. “I wanted to study in a place where different viewpoints come together, and here, I can meet people from all over the world.”

While researching universities, Agnia came across PolyU’s programme that matched her interests. “I hadn’t known much about PolyU before, but I’d heard that Hong Kong was an international study hub,” she shares. “When I looked into the courses offered, PolyU stood out as a university that values cross-cultural learning.” The University’s Department of Applied Social Sciences, ranked 52nd globally in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, underscores the University’s strong academic reputation and commitment to excellence.

Once she arrived, what struck Agnia most was the diversity on campus. “I didn’t expect there to be so many international students,” she says. For her, it’s great how people from such different backgrounds see the same world through entirely different lenses.

PolyU’s vibrant international environment encourages students to explore new experiences. Agnia has discovered opportunities to participate in exchange programmes, study trips, volunteering and Service-Learning initiatives. “I’ll probably choose somewhere in Asia for exchange,” she says, “and I might also explore universities in the Chinese Mainland. PolyU gives us chances to see more of the world.”

Her time in Hong Kong has also offered unexpected cultural connections. She fondly recalls her first mid-autumn festival celebration organised by PolyU at the campus. “It was unforgettable. Everyone gathered to share mooncakes, watch performances, and celebrate together. As an international student away from home, the celebration felt like being part of one big family,” she recalls.

Reflecting on her first year, Agnia feels grateful for how much she’s grown. “Before coming here, I didn’t know what opportunities awaited me. Now I see endless doors opening.”