Studying in the Metropolis of the Future: A Semester in Hong Kong Through the Eyes of an GSB Student
In the spring semester of 2024, Maria Somova, a third-year student of the Digital Product Management program, spent her semester in one of the most dynamic cities in the world — Hong Kong. Studying at a top Asian university, immersing herself in the local culture, and experiencing life in an international environment became a true revelation for her. How can you combine education at a prestigious business school with a vibrant life in a bustling metropolis? We’re sharing her inspiring story!
Why Hong Kong?
Last semester, in spring 2024, I studied in Germany. I wanted to compare education in Europe, Russia, and Asia, and it’s amazing that I managed to do so while pursuing my bachelor’s degree at the Higher School of Business. I chose Hong Kong because it’s a city that attracts people from all over the world for study and work, and it is one of Asia’s financial hubs, hosting numerous fascinating exhibitions and forums.
Studying in Hong Kong
I studied at the City University of Hong Kong (CityU), which is ranked among the top 100 business schools in the world.
The academic process is quite similar to what we have in HSE, but there are some differences. At the beginning of the semester, students select the courses they will take. There are mandatory courses for majors and elective courses. Registration for all courses must be completed before the start of classes, and some courses even require a competitive selection process. Students can take up to six courses, with each course worth three credits. In Hong Kong, three credits are equivalent to six HSE credits, as classes in Hong Kong last three hours instead of the usual 1.5 hours we’re used to.
All courses have an assessment formula that typically includes a project (worth 20% to 70% of the grade depending on the subject), in-class participation, a midterm, and a final exam. Some courses also include homework assignments or quizzes. In this regard, the academic process is similar to what we have at HSE. Exams take place from mid- to late December, with one week allocated for exam preparation. All other projects and assignments must be completed by then.
I selected five courses that matched my academic plan: Management, Information Management, Advertising and Marketing Communication, Business Case Analysis, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The most exciting course was Innovation and Entrepreneurship, taught by the founder of an environmental startup. He had extensive experience working with small businesses and venture funds, and it was incredibly inspiring to learn from him.
Life in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis. It’s now a Special Administrative Region of China, but it used to be a British colony. That’s why you’ll still find left-hand driving and double-decker buses. Hong Kong has its own currency (the Hong Kong dollar), its own laws, and customs that differ from mainland China.
To study in Hong Kong, you need to obtain a student visa. CityU and its coordinators assist with this process. You need to send all the required documents by mail and pay a visa fee. The university then applies for the visa on your behalf as your guarantor.
Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world due to its housing shortage. Renting an apartment is very challenging, but the university provided us with accommodation. We lived in a dormitory built in 2024 specifically for international students. It’s located in a pleasant area near the sea, about 50 minutes from the city center. Almost every weekend, while the weather allowed, we went to the beach!
Finding familiar food in Hong Kong can be difficult, but it’s a great chance to try new things. You’ll need some time to adapt to the food, but if you’re determined, you can find familiar options in stores — there are even Russian stores. My top dishes to try:
- Dim sum – steamed buns with various fillings, available in many places. My favorite spot was Dim Dim Sum, which has several locations in Hong Kong, including one near the university.
- Pineapple bun – a sweet bun with cheese, best paired with coffee at Milk Caffee.
- Hot pot – a broth where vegetables and meat are added, a popular dish that you can try in the CityU cafeteria.
Beyond Studies
Life in Hong Kong is incredibly dynamic! The city offers a variety of must-visit spots, including picturesque islands and bays, museums, historic streets, European neighborhoods, the financial district, and even Disneyland. Hiking is also a must-try activity. At the beginning of the semester, the university organized many free excursions, which are a great way to explore the city from different perspectives.
Studying in Hong Kong is a unique opportunity to experience life in Asia, immerse yourself in a new culture, gain practical knowledge, and build friendships with people from all over the world.
You can learn more about my semester in Hong Kong through the videos I recorded, which are available on the Mobility Center’s YouTube channel.
