Studying in the UK and HK: What’s the Difference?
Many of you might consider whether to study in local universities or abroad. In this article, we would like to share about the differences between studying in Hong Kong and the UK.
(Scroll down to know more about our teacher’s campus life in the UK! )
- Campus
While most of the Hong Kong universities’ campuses are near to the city centre, you have more choices in the UK if you are more into the countryside. Different cities in the UK have their own special atmosphere. Therefore, you can decide which is your favourite.
- Major
There is no doubt that the UK has a greater variety of majors and some of the subjects may not be offered by local universities. You may do some research on the teaching resources provided by the department for your own reference.
- Language
If you would like to improve your language, it is profound to consider the language of the city. Immersing yourself in a full English speaking environment can certainly improve your English proficiency, vice versa.
- Culture
Are you an adventure and culture lover? Studying in the UK can give you an incredible experience of being exposed to a more diverse environment to different cultures and people while studying in Hong Kong is also a good choice to feel the blend of Eastern and Western culture.
- Tuition and scholarship
The Hong Kong government provides various types of financial subsidies and scholarships for local students to complete their study. There are also some financial schemes given by the UK universities and British Council to international students, you may know more on their official websites.
- Work opportunity
Have you ever thought of working overseas? You can try different internships while studying which can enrich your portfolio to gain you a job in the UK. Besides, there are different overseas internship programs or mentorship programs offered by alumni in Hong Kong universities but it’s obviously competitive. If you really want to work in the UK, it is easier to gain access to the opportunity if you study there.
Teacher’s sharing – Lokwing
For me, studying in the United Kingdom was an incredible experience. I lived in London for nine years, from 2010 to 2019, and while it was more expensive than Hong Kong overall, it was unquestionably the best experience of my life. I enjoyed the festive atmosphere of Regent Street and Winter Wonderland. I enjoyed exchanging cultural values and communicating with people from various backgrounds at university, and I enjoyed the summer breeze under the heartwarming sunlight.
To be honest, living in the UK may irritate you due to its slow-paced lifestyle, and you will notice a huge difference in the way your university, lecturers, and tutors teach and work with you. But, hey, why not? Students learn to manage their own timetables and become self-sufficient. I felt the freedom of making my own decisions and taking the responsibility of every decision I made. When exchanging ideas with people from various places, backgrounds, and age groups, I felt a sense of freedom of expression. It is well worth your time to visit such a free and romantic country.
One piece of advice would be: learning is about going beyond what you see in books and exploring new things. To see the world through your own eyes, to feel love and hardship, and to make your entire life worthwhile. I wish you the best of luck wherever you go!