Undergraduate Student Embarks on a Transformative Learning Journey with the Study Abroad Program at McGill University

7 Feb 2023
Safin Tang Yin Man explored in McGill University
Safin Tang Yin Man spent a festival season in Canada


The Department is dedicated to providing undergraduate students with diverse international learning experiences, in line with the University's Go Global initiative. Studying at McGill University, Canada's top-ranked institution, for a semester provides a unique opportunity to broaden students' horizons and gain new experiences across borders.

Safin Tang Yin Man, a third-year Computer Science student, was selected to participate in the program last semester and was deeply impacted by his time in Canada. "Studying abroad was a life-changing experience for me, both in and outside of the classroom," said Safin. "In the classroom, I was exposed to Canadian teaching methods and culture, and outside of it, I travelled throughout the US and Canada, immersing myself in the local culture and having a great time."

Safin found that studying at McGill was academically more demanding than HKBU. The pace of instruction was faster, the coursework covered a wider range of material, and the exams and assignments were more challenging. It took him approximately a month to adjust to the demands of studying at McGill, but he is grateful for the experience as it improved his ability to comprehend and retain information and taught him to tackle challenges more efficiently. These skills will be of great benefit to him in future studies.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Safin explored North America through travels to cities such as Toronto, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Cancun in Mexico, with friends he made in Canada. These trips gave him a deeper appreciation for the region's culture.

Through the study abroad program, students have the opportunity to develop their self-care skills, personal growth, and expand their global network. They also have the chance to learn from renowned faculty and mentors from around the world.