Hong Kong University Summer Institute Report

Jack Francis Kelly – Accounting and Finance BSc

“Entrepreneurship In Creative Industries with a focus on China”

1. Why Did you choose to apply for this U21 Event?

I have had a long standing curiosity about China, fuelled by detailed analysis from an academic

perspective. Having not had the opportunity to Study abroad within my academic discipline I was over the

moon when the chance to experience an alternative University lifestyle particularly in an area of study

which I have followed for many years. I was also able to meet 2 of my Mentors who I was in contact with

thanks to the UoB Alumni Mentorship Scheme.

2. What was the best thing about your experience?

The best thing about my time at the Hong Kong University Summer Institute was meeting students from

around the world; I was one of 5 British in my course with the other 25 from Mainland China, Hong Kong,

Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Australia. This melting pot of culture and language resulted in a real variety

and depth of views on issues we at UoB may take for granted e.g. attitudes to the role of Government. This

allowed my fellow British students to challenge their views but also for us to revaluate our own which was

tremendously valuable.

3. What benefits do you think you gained in relation to your personal development e.g. your

confidence, competence, knowledge, future employability?

One could prepare for the imminent culture shock so much; whether that be the humidity, language barrier

(living with 10 boys from across Asia) or the feeling of loneliness you experience arriving alone to a city of 7

million. From the get go one had to be flexible and adapt in order to maximise the opportunity of being at a

world class institution in such an exciting country. I was able to stay in HK for a week longer which allowed

me to complete a short Internship within the Department of International Trade (British Consulate-General)

which, combined with the experience of living abroad, has become a point of significant value and interest

to employers. I feel that the world is becoming more globalised by the day, the ability to understand and

genuinely care about culture and language can be a real asset in the future of employment.

4. How did your U21 Bursary help you?

Without a doubt I would not have been able to have this experience without the bursary. The generous

bursary covered all of my tuition and accommodation in addition to my transport and living costs. I was able

to focus on my course and didn’t have to worry about costs when taking a field trip to exploring with

classmates.

5. What did you think were the most attractive things about The University of Birmingham

when promoting it to other international students?

Birmingham (Or “Bómínghàn” in Mandarin) was already well known amongst students from Hong Kong and Mainland China. The apparent juxtaposition of a beautiful campus, particularly the green areas and Redbrick building, and access to a major British city was a massive pull for students. Furthermore the University ranking as a world top 100 with a focus on developing an international community on campus made it an attractive prospect.

6. Is there anything you would have changed about your visit?

No, I enjoyed all the experience of my trip even the humidity.

7. What advice would you give to students thinking of applying for a U21 Award in the future? The best of advice is naturally “apply!” – Such an opportunity may seem out of reach but you will never know unless you apply. I think you need to consider your reasons for applying; the destination itself is one aspect but not the entirety of the award. Many factors including your desired course and future ambitions are important so be honest about your reasons to apply. Take hold the opportunity in two hands, say “yes” to every opportunity (no matter how small) and be proactive from day 1 and consider linking up with some alumni whilst you’re there. The role of ambassador is enjoyable and means you always have an Icebreaker wherever you go – I recommend trying to include a picture of Old Joe in all presentations when possible!

Figure 1The View from Jack's Dorm room on Hong Kong Island

Figure 2 Jack and classmates before a "HKU High Table Dinner". HKU Tradition modelled on Oxford Colleges

Figure 3 An example of a group meal one may share when dining out (which is more common than cooking at home)

Figure 4 Picture from a UoB Alumni Reunion attended by Jack

Figure 5 A class photo upon finishing the course

Figure 6 "Graduation Day" with peers froh Sheffield University and The University of Queensland Australia

Figure 7 Photo outside the British Consulate-General Hong Kong on Jacks' final day of his internship

Figure 8 Photo on the first day of Jack's course at a HKU Campus Centre Monument

Figure 9 View from Dorm Room - perhaps better than Selly Oak?

Figure 10 Jack's Final Essay

Figure 11 View from the 'best viewpoint in town' - Victoria's Peak

Figure 12 Hong Kong by night