CityUHK students express high satisfaction with the University’s overall learning environment and global learning experiences
City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) recently conducted a Student Learning Experience Survey, in which students expressed satisfaction across multiple aspects of their learning experience. Notably, global learning experiences achieved high satisfaction ratings, reaffirming CityUHK’s reputation as the “Most International University in the World,” as recognised by Times Higher Education (THE) for two consecutive years. This highlights the effectiveness of the University's multifaceted approach to broadening students’ international horizons.
CityUHK has long been committed to enhancing teaching quality and the overall learning environment. Through a wide range of initiatives, the University strengthens connections with academic departments, enriches programme activities and resources, and ensures comprehensive support for students both inside and outside the classroom.
In terms of global learning, CityUHK actively promotes overseas exchanges, internships, and cultural activities, enabling students to gain valuable intercultural and cross-regional experiences. These opportunities are designed to expand their international outlook while fostering a vibrant multicultural atmosphere on campus. By bringing together students from around the world and offering cultural festivals and interdisciplinary projects, CityUHK provides opportunities for students to engage with diverse cultural backgrounds in their daily learning and campus life. These experiences help cultivate cross-cultural communication skills and a global mindset, equipping students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Pearl Chan Pak-yee, a Year 3 Bachelor of Business Administration student, said that CityUHK’s international environment has greatly benefited both her learning and personal growth. She shared, “The international campus atmosphere at CityUHK encourages me to engage with different cultural perspectives, boosts my confidence and independence, and helps me develop the cultural sensitivity and team spirit essential for a diverse workplace. This has allowed me to grow in a well-rounded way.”
During the last academic year, Pearl spent a semester on exchange in Australia. She noted that CityUHK provided comprehensive support throughout the process, including arranging for students who had previously studied abroad to share their experiences. This support helped her, as a first-time visitor to a non-native language environment, develop the confidence to step out of her comfort zone, explore new cultures, make friends with people from around the world, and significantly improve her language and communication skills.
Garance Rabier, from France, said she was drawn to CityUHK’s international atmosphere and open culture, which inspired her to join the Department of Public and International Affairs for a semester-long exchange. Her experience at CityUHK proved to be highly rewarding, allowing her to meet classmates of diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds. She commented that learning together deepened her understanding of different cultures and helped her build lasting friendships.
Garance said that CityUHK’s internationalisation is reflected in both its diverse student body and its teaching philosophy, which encourages students to view global issues from a broader perspective. One global public health course inspired her future direction. “It was one of the highest-quality and most engaging classes I’ve ever taken,” she said. “The openness and freedom in CityUHK’s teaching are truly precious to me.”
Beyond academics, Garance actively participated in cultural activities organised by the University, allowing her to explore local traditions and experience the most captivating side of Hong Kong.
Phantita Pinyopisan, from Thailand, joined CityUHK through the Outstanding Athletes Entrance Scholarship for Non-Local Students and became a member of the University’s table tennis team. She described CityUHK as a melting pot that brings together traditions from around the world and connects non-local students through a wide range of engaging activities, helping them integrate into campus life and fostering a strong sense of belonging.
Among these activities, CityUHK Global Festival Night left her with unforgettable memories. She recalled how students from various backgrounds showcased their unique cultures through music, dance and food, creating an atmosphere of mutual exchange and respect that exemplified CityUHK’s harmony and inclusiveness.
Phantita also reflected on how her years at CityUHK have been pivotal to her development in table tennis. With the University’s support, she honed her skills while cultivating leadership abilities and a passion for sports. These experiences have inspired her to pursue a career in promoting sports development and to spread the spirit of athletics within the community.
CityUHK will continue to provide students with diverse global learning experiences by establishing partnerships with world-renowned universities. These collaborations create opportunities for students to join exchange programmes at overseas partner institutions, immersing themselves in different cultures and inspiring innovative thinking.