Uthra, Exchange to City University Hong Kong (CityUHK)

2025/04/25 Fri

Uthra (India)

Uthra joined the Global BBA Program at NUCB in 2022 after graduating from MCTM Chidambaram Chettiyar International School, Chennai, India. During her exchange semester at City University Hong Kong, she embraced cultural exploration, deepened her academic insights, and gained invaluable personal growth. In this blog, Uthra shares some of her most memorable experiences and the lessons she’s learned while studying abroad.

Why did you want to study abroad on exchange?

I wanted to study abroad to immerse myself in a new culture and expand my horizons both academically and personally. Hong Kong, with its rich blend of tradition and modernity, offered the perfect environment for me to explore diverse perspectives and gain practical experience in global business practices.

What is life like at CityUHK?

Life at CityUHK has been dynamic and exciting. The university's modern campus provides a collaborative atmosphere, fostering learning and innovation. There are always events happening, from cultural festivals to sustainability talks, and the diverse student body brings a range of perspectives to both academic and social activities. I love the balance between busy study days and relaxed weekends spent exploring the city and hanging out with friends at the shopping mall just outside campus.

Can you tell us about one of your classes?

One of the most engaging classes I've taken is Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The course involves interactive projects aimed at developing sustainable business solutions for local communities. It's a highly collaborative course that encourages creativity and problem-solving, and it has given me the opportunity to work with local NGOs, making the learning experience both practical and rewarding.

What are some of the most memorable experiences you had while studying abroad?

Celebrating my birthday on the Aqualuna boat while cruising through Victoria Harbour is one of the most magical experiences I’ve had. The breathtaking skyline and delicious Cantonese dinner made it unforgettable. Another highlight was my trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, where I explored beautiful temples and vibrant markets. I also attended events like the AIA Carnival and the Spring Festival at CityU, which gave me a deeper appreciation for local culture and traditions.

How did the experience help you grow personally or academically? Any message to students who are considering studying abroad?

Living abroad has helped me become more adaptable and open-minded. I’ve gained confidence in navigating urban environments, embraced new cultures, and learned to communicate better with people from diverse backgrounds. Academically, the courses at CityU have challenged me to think critically, especially with the exams and quizzes, which are quite different from my experience at NUCB. This exchange has broadened my global perspective, both personally and professionally.

Studying abroad is an incredibly enriching experience that will push you out of your comfort zone in the best possible way. It's an opportunity to learn not just from textbooks but from real-world cultural and academic exchanges. I encourage students to embrace every aspect of this journey—whether it’s exploring new cultures, tackling challenges, or building connections with people from around the world. The experience will shape you in ways you can’t even imagine!

NUCB's Exchange Program

At NUCB, students can choose from 187 partner schools in 63 countries for study abroad opportunities. They have the chance to learn business in English at top international business schools accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. In this prestigious academic environment, students can develop into global professionals through friendly competition and collaboration with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.