The inbound exchange students, accompanied by their buddies, visit the Hong Kong Palace Museum.
To promote Hong Kong as an international hub for post-secondary education and enhance the “Study in Hong Kong” brand, Lingnan University in Hong Kong has organised a comprehensive four-day orientation programme for the first time ever specifically for the 147 inbound exchange students. These students, who come from 26 countries including China, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, South Korea, Spain, the UK, and the US, represent over 70 partner institutions from all over the world who will attend the spring term of the 2024/25 academic year. The number of inbound exchange students has increased by 122% compared to the previous spring term.
The Office of Global Education has prepared a diverse range of interesting and informative orientation activities from 6 to 9 January 2025 to help new students feel at home. From 6 to 7 January 2025, Lingnanstaff and student ambassadors were at Hong Kong International Airport to greet the students and escort them to the campus, and help them familiarise themselves with campus facilities. The University also organised an orientation session introducing the exchange students to various aspects of life in Hong Kong and Lingnan University, covering topics such as hostel life, adjustment tips, and an overview of Hong Kong’s vibrant culture.
To foster a sense of community, around 40 undergraduate "buddy" student ambassadors were present to meet the newcomers, and form interest groups, show the new students around Hong Kong, and help them settle into their new environment. A highlight of the day was the welcoming lunch held at the Lingnan Chinese Restaurant, which provided an opportunity for the new students to savour the delicious local cuisine and mingle with local students and staff, encouraging cross-cultural exchanges and new friendships.
On 9 January 2025, two cultural excursions were organised to offer students a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s rich heritage and the beautiful Chinese art and culture here. The exchange students, accompanied by their buddies, visited The Mills in Tsuen Wan and the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District.
Prof Bradley R. Barnes, Interim Associate Vice-President (Global Affairs) cum Director of Global Education at Lingnan University, said “Lingnan University is committed to providing a supportive and enriching environment for all students. We believe these activities will help our inbound exchange students feel at home and make the most of their time here. Students have provided positive feedback, highlighting that the activities are not only enjoyable but also enriching. These experiences provide them with an exciting overview of life in Hong Kong and the vibrant university culture at Lingnan. Additionally, students value the opportunities to connect with their buddies, gaining deeper insights into their respective majors and receiving practical advice and tips from local and senior students.”
The students will spend at least one semester immersing themselves in our dynamic and inspiring Lingnan community. The Office of Global Education will provide comprehensive support to students not only in their academic pursuits but also in accommodation, food, and transportation.
