The exposure to diverse cultures, hands-on learning, and global travel not only deepened my passion for hospitality but also broadened my perspective on the world and my future career.
Published:
Wednesday, 05 Mar 2025 Author:
Katrina Brown
My time in Hong Kong was truly life changing. At the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) I had the opportunity to learn from Asia’s #1 hotel and tourism management program, expanding my understanding and application of hospitality. I worked on several semester long projects ranging from designing event packages to analyzing real-world companies and providing recommendations.
PolyU made a great effort for students to be hands-on and learn from experts. One course had students tasting a new dish each week from around the world in order to build our senses and food knowledge. Furthermore, each class had a “Professor for a Day” in which a professional in the field would lecture. I was able to hear from several hotel directors and government officials, giving me first-hand insight into these jobs and providing invaluable connections. These opportunities opened my eyes to see the bigger picture and how my career can fit into these concepts, renewing my passion for my major.
Additionally, I made connections with people all over the world, learning and engaging with many different cultures, not just Hong Kong’s. PolyU created a great framework for exchange students to support each other as well as to create relationships with local students. It was very interesting to see how accurate my perceptions were of these cultures, and how others perceived the United States.
I was also able to travel during my exchange as well as Hong Kong’s transportation system made for easy day trips for hiking, swimming, and visiting the island. I visited other nations such as Macau, Mainland China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, Korea, and Japan. Within these travels, I immersed myself in traditional practices to learn more about the history and everyday life of locals. I had several opportunities to dress in traditional wear, visit temples and palaces, and sightsee. The food was also amazing and very affordable, offering many chances to expand my palate and tastes. I also felt quite safe while traveling, even during solo trips as the transportation systems were easy to navigate and the locals were quite friendly.
I worked on several semester long projects ranging from designing event packages to analyzing real-world companies and providing recommendations.
Overall, my time in Hong Kong was a transformative experience that enriched my academic, professional, and personal growth. The exposure to diverse cultures, hands-on learning, and global travel not only deepened my passion for hospitality but also broadened my perspective on the world and my future career.
