Feeling thankful

“Before my departure, I was busy packing my luggage and didn’t check my email in time. My mentor, Mr TC Kwan, took the initiative to contact me first, and gave me some pre-departure advice including the current weather conditions in Canada. We then stayed in touch regularly via WhatsApp.

Truthfully speaking, I was a little bit nervous about the exchange to Canada. Moreover, my flight from Shanghai to Toronto turned out to be not that smooth, which made me even more anxious about this trip. Due to severe turbulence during the flight, the plane was forced to land in Calgary, causing an eight-hour delay. I stayed at a hotel near the airport for one night and my mentor kindly came to my hotel, picked me up and drove me to my accommodation in Waterloo. His wife came together with him and they both gave me a warm welcome. We talked all the way; I told them about my studies and expectations there, and they told me about their family and life. After arriving in Waterloo, they helped me pick up my keys and take my luggage to my room. Then, they treated me to a delicious meal and took me have a look around the University of Waterloo campus. I was deeply moved by their warmth, and felt that I was not alone in a new country, which greatly eased my anxiety. I was ready to start a new life and study experience at University of Waterloo with their guidance.

Also, knowing that the weather on the first day of teaching would be around -16°C, my mentor was worried I might not be able to cope with the cold weather, and he lent me a thick coat and a kettle so that I could have hot water whenever I wanted it. These kind acts of generosity and care really helped me with the life there. Throughout the whole semester, we contacted each other frequently. My mentor constantly asked me to update him on my life there and gave me advice when necessary. I always told him about my life and feelings, and asked him about the local entertainment or something else. One thing I’d like to mention is that I lost my glasses when traveling during reading week. I was a little bit worried because I had never had bought a pair of glasses by myself and was concerned that the price of glasses in Canada might be expensive. When I was buying a new pair, I sought my mentor’s advice on brands and prices so that I could make a wise decision. I believe, without his timely feedback and help, I would have had a lot of trouble dealing with daily issues.

Final exams were held a few days before I went home and my mentor and his wife came again to meet me as well as drive their daughter home. The four of us had a dinner at the same restaurant as we had on the night of my arrival. All the memories flooded back. Four months had passed and I really had a lot to say. My mentor did view me as his child and took good care of me. After four months there, I become used to living independently. Also, I became more mature. My mentor also appreciated my progress!

Before leaving, I gave my mentor a gift, a postcard with my words on it, as well as the souvenir provided by the HKU Mentorship Programme. This is not an end. I will stay in touch with my mentor and look forward to seeing him again if I have a chance. Again, I really thank the Mentorship Programme for introducing me to such a nice mentor, who left an everlasting impression on my exchange life!”

In the photos: Kevin first met his mentor Mr Kwan Tak Ching (in the first photo), and after four months (in the second photo), it was time to say farewell; Kevin and Mr Kwan’s family shared many happy memories.

Mentor in Ontario, Canada since 2010: Mr Kwan Tak Ching
Outgoing Exchange Mentee (2015-16): Kevin Huang Kai, BEng(CompSc) Year 3