Reflections Down Under

Analysing kangaroo skulls to estimate their age. Examining preserved human organs and tissue samples to study their pathological disease states. Working on protein interaction experiments. These were but some of the many eye-opening experiences that awaited Year 3 College of Humanities and Sciences (CHS) student LEW Bo Cong when he decided to embark on an exchange programme at the University of Sydney.

For Bo Cong, who majors in Life Sciences and minors in Interactive Media Development, these experiences truly brought theories to life. “They helped me to better appreciate the depth and breadth of my major,” he says.  

In the process, he gained exposure to a different academic culture that focuses on independent learning – where he got to learn concepts first before applying them immediately during practical sessions to reinforce the learning outcomes.

Australia is famous for its beaches and he did not hesitate to sign up for the free six-week swimming programme offered for international students. “As someone who struggled with swimming, I managed to pick up some basic swimming skills!”

The experience was not without its challenges, which included adapting to cultural differences and the local culture. “Freedom of speech is valued in Australian society. Learning to respect the views of the locals, especially when protests occur, is crucial to maintaining harmony in the different communities,” he says.

Australians also place a premium on work-life balance, with many places closing early.  And with the high cost of living (“and the absence of cheap hawker food”), he learned how to cook his own meals and plan his grocery shopping. This truly put his time management skills “to the test”, as he had to juggle assignment deadlines, prepare for examinations, manage household chores and plan for road trips and places to visit.

“This experience helped me to hone my foresight so I could plan my time better and be more flexible when plans change,” he says.

As someone who does not travel overseas often, Bo Cong got to pack in a lifetime worth of experiences during his exchange, as he visited Melbourne, Tasmania and Adelaide during his exchange.

These included joining a macaron-making workshop as part of the university’s creative arts festival (“decorating macarons was a fun way to express creativity!”), attending an inter-university basketball match (“it was an exciting afternoon cheering for the home team!”) as well as the Sydney Comedy Festival showcase in school and free lunchtime performances at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. 

He was also “blown away” by talented student band performers at an evening Open Mic performance.