Setting sail for adventures
Semester at Sea offers a transformative voyage that combines education, adventure, and personal growth.
Global exploration, personal growth, and meaningful connections defined the recent exchange experiences of CUHK students across the globe.
The Semester at Sea programme offers a truly unique learning environment aboard the MV World Odyssey, a floating university that sails across 3–4 continents and visits 10–12 countries. Wing Yu Lai, a Hospitality and Real Estate major from CUHK joined this voyage recently. Reflecting on her journey, Wing Yu shared that the programme opened doors to new histories, cultures, and destinations that might otherwise have remained out of reach. She shared: ‘This journey is both fun and challenging, requiring a high level of adaptability and curiosity. If you’re looking to push yourself and grow through global exploration, Semester at Sea is an experience that you will never forget!’
The programme brings together students and lifelong learners to study on board during a 100-day journey visiting around 10 countries.
Sports also played a vital role in connecting CUHK exchange students with their host universities. Bosco Chik, a psychology student on exchange at the University of Southern California, US in the first term of 2024–25, found common ground with local students through sports. ‘The vibrant sports culture allowed me to easily connect with American students,’ he noted. From attending volleyball matches to joining weekend basketball games, Bosco discovered that a simple invitation could foster friendships and a sense of belonging.
Bosco enjoys the vibrant sports culture at the University of Southern California.
Across the Atlantic, Tat Yeung Kwan, a Financial Technology major, had an equally memorable exchange at the University of Liverpool, UK in the second term of 2024–25. In a city best known for football, he discovered a lively basketball scene. A college team’s invitation helped him step outside his comfort zone and embrace teamwork. A particularly impactful moment came when he asked an Iranian student if he could join a game, sparking a lasting friendship and countless hours of practice. ‘Basketball was more than a game; it connected me to the city’s heart,’ he said.
Tat Yeung (1st left) builds friendship through basketball during his exchange at the University of Liverpool.
The Office of Academic Links offers a variety of overseas learning opportunities. Stay tuned for more information and encourage your students to seize these life-changing experiences.