I started my first year of University in Hong Kong far away from my cold yet comfortable hometown of Oslo. I was in the School of Engineering orignally planning on studying Electrical Engineering. However, with time and a growing interest for programming encouraged by my computer science Professors I decided to leave my original plan and move towards a mathematics and computer science focused career. Due to my lack of foresight and also knowledge of Hong Kongs particular political situation, I failed to realise the potential disruption to my studies produced by the protests. Although not significantly bothering me in the beginning with every passing week there was a growing tension on campus and in the city. I decided to leave after the death of one of our own students as well as the partial riot/destruction of our campus overlooking the ocean. The reason I chose Hong Kong is due to my desire to explore asia. I am half asian, yet, I have rarely travelled or explored Asia in the slightest and nothing compared to the extent I have travelled around Europe. I plan on returning at some point in the future when circumstance favours it. Despite the tumultous environment, I made friends, clashed with cultures, partied, learnt and grew alongside an array of people from all walks and places in life.
My time there was pivotal to forming my desired future and set me on the track for a more dedicated and focused career.