Highlights

Studying in Hong Kong — A life-changing experience

In Fall 2006, Eric Bennett, a fourth year student in Mount Royal's Bachelor of Applied Financial Services program, wanted to differentiate his skills and knowledge from the 46 classmates who soon would be competing against him for jobs.

He found his competitive advantage — and more - in Asia.

"It was a real resume builder," says Bennett of the four months of study he and fellow student Jonathon Dallaire completed at Lingnan University in Hong Kong. The two lived and studied alongside Chinese students, as well as 40 other international students on site at the same time.

In one semester, Bennett not only got the economics and Manadrin language lessons he was seeking, he also had a life-changing experience.

"I changed. I'm still the same me, but my ideas have changed," he explains. "When you're there to study, it throws a different spin on things. It's not like travelling around. It has affected my own personal goals.

"Now I ask myself: What do I want to do with my life going forward? I certainly want to have a more global influence."

Bennett is already reaping the rewards of his decision to study in Hong Kong.

In March, 2007, Mount Royal International nominated both him and Dallaire for a Hong Kong Canada Business Association (HKCBA) Award. The two agreed to split the award regardless of who won, but it was an "unbelievable surpirse" when the HKCBA decided to give both students awards because of their impressive achievements.

Living and studying abroad "totally exceeded my expectations," Bennett concludes. "Going to Hong Kong changed everything for me. Anyone and everyone I talk to, I strongly promote getting a semester abroad wherever they can."

Photo: Eric Bennett (Left) and Jonathon Dallaire hanging out at the Great Wall of China.

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