Second-year student Chaye Foster had the opportunity to study at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) for a whole month during the summer holidays thanks to the University of Westminster’s Global Experience Bursary.
The Global Experience Bursary, launched in the summer of 2022, was designed to support undergraduate and postgraduate students in undertaking short-term study, research, work, or volunteering opportunities abroad. It was developed to ensure that all students, regardless of their course or personal situation, can receive support to have an international experience.
This year 170 students have received funding to take part in numerous experiences across the globe, including summer school exchanges at some of Westminster’s exchange partners like PolyU. Students have also visited countries such as Nepal, Egypt, Ghana, Sri Lanka, Fiji, Tanzania, Mozambique, Malta, United States, St Lucia, Italy, China, Madagascar, Mexico and Uzbekistan.
As a Computer Games Development BSc Honours student, Chaye was drawn to the subjects of artificial intelligence (AI) and science fiction when choosing what to study at PolyU. During her time there, she wrote a 2,500-word report on a game called Detroit: Become Human. The game is set in 2035 in a world where humanoids have replaced the majority of the workforce and have become the core of society, showing a multitude of social, ethical and philosophical issues. She now hopes to study AI as part of a Masters course when she finishes her undergraduate degree.
Speaking about choosing the course, she said: “I received an email regarding summer opportunities early in the year and came across several universities in Hong Kong. Intrigued, I delved into PolyU. The feedback about their summer school was exceedingly positive, painting it as a remarkable chance. Opting for AI studies, given its captivating criteria, felt like the natural choice, especially since I'm already engaged in computer game development, which encompasses an aspect of game AI. My aim was to see if this could ignite a new interest, considering my uncertainties about post-graduation plans. I wholeheartedly enjoyed the curriculum and aspire to pursue a Master's in AI.
“The experience has been truly exceptional. With three-hour sessions three to four times a week, totalling 12 lectures – equivalent to a semester's load of content. It's been a challenge to absorb so much information in such a brief span. The examination style also differs significantly here – notably more demanding, yet it has motivated me to intensify my studies, yielding improvements with each successive test."
As well as studying, Chaye has made the most of the exciting city. She has explored the urban metropolis, visited Hong Kong Island, hiked up mountains, spent time at the beach, rock climbed and met different people from all around the world.
Speaking about why other students should consider these kinds of experiences, Chaye added: “My advice to fellow students would be to seize every opportunity, even if it doesn't immediately seem suitable. Sometimes, venturing into the unknown helps us uncover our dislikes. My journey to Hong Kong unquestionably ranks among the best yet most demanding undertakings I've ever embraced. It has facilitated my personal growth and fostered independence – a prime example being my solo navigation to the student halls in an unfamiliar country.”
Sarah Hiscock, Student Mobility Officer who manages the scheme, said: “The Global Experience Bursary can help students gain international experience, boost their employability, and develop personally. The bursary is a great way to expand their horizons and build a global network. As students can chose the location and experience, they can take part in opportunities aligned with their own individual interests and development goals, which makes it incredibly appealing for students”.
Learn more about bursaries and awards for current students at the University of Westminster.
