Mentor I can call on

 
“Stepping off the plane on arrival, I was hit with a feeling of ‘coming home’ and that feeling has largely remained with me throughout my time here. Hong Kong can be a cruel place as much as it is comfortable and convenient and beautiful; the prices are high, the working hours are long and the city takes its toll emotionally; a unique political and economic milieu, people here deal with a special set of issues that can be incredibly taxing. However, when the protests peaked in November and my home university asked me to pick up a ticket home, it wasn’t that I needed to consider my choices. I just felt so desperately unhappy at the idea of leaving, that my only option was to find a way to stay. I got HUGELY lucky and I am supremely grateful to everyone who helped me along the way as it is predominantly due to them that I have been able to remain here.

The HKU mentorship programme played an important part in this and I am so glad to have been placed with such a brilliant, calm and kind mentor. When life seemed to be falling apart around me, it has been incredibly comforting to know that there is someone in the city that I can call on should the need arise and Dr Nic never fails to impart new wisdom every time I see him. I would urge absolutely everyone to join the programme as it really will have a positive #impact on your life. I feel supremely honoured to be able to experience life in Hong Kong for as long as I have and at such a time – this place is very, very special.” Anna Krafft (left), exchange student from UK, will continue her adventure in Hong Kong with mentor Dr Nicolas Yeung (right) and fellow mentee Patrick (LLB, centre)