陳浩芊 (中英翻譯學士學位課程)
Chan Hou Chin (Bachelor of Arts in Chinese-English Translation and Interpretation)


Throwing back to the days I’ve spent in Melbourne, it’s unbelievable that I have come back to Macau for weeks.

First of all, I would like to express my appreciation to Macau Polytechnic Institute, which provides me a great opportunity to take part in the Global Professionals Program (GPP). I really had a good time in Melbourne and have gained a lot, not only the knowledge taught in the class but also the experience getting along with my homestay family and my Japanese friends.

I love the Australian method of taking class. Their way of learning focuses more in group work and interaction. In these few weeks, I noticed that my presentation skills have improved because I could make good use of strategies such as question tags, appropriate voice tone and body language to produce an effective small talk. Also, I have broadened my general business knowledge and enhanced my global perspective and ability to work across different cultures. Moreover, I have understood the importance of a company’s branding.

During this company branding section, we visited a company called Port of Melbourne Corporation (POMC). After this visit, we are capable of discussing branding and marketing effectiveness and its importance as an essential tool for the recognition and promotion in diverse cultural markets. I have improved my cross-cultural capability and have developed an awareness of my Cultural Intelligence (CQ) skills by applying my newly acquired skills to culturally challenging scenarios.

Meanwhile, I also have realized how personal branding is important to us, especially to the fresh graduates. We need to understand what prospective employees they are seeking.

Behind the knowledge learnt in the class, what I gained is the precious friendship with Japanese students. They are very punctual and hard-working, which exactly is the attitude we should possess. They are funny and wacky, who would like to do something funny to lighten the air. They are also sweet and warm that they have made a video to Macao students and played it during the graduation ceremony. All of us were touched. To express our gratitude, we have made a video and introduce our university as well. I will not forget the time having class with them and treasure our friendship.

Moreover, I also have gained the special experience of getting along with homestay family, which is a simple family with parents and two kids. And I am really grateful for the laughter and love they have given me. They always take good care of me, treat me as their family member, and teach me how to live like an Aussie. Their hospitality and consideration made me feel welcome and could let me get used to the new environment in Australia quickly. I will miss the time having dinner with them, chatting with them and playing games with the two little sweethearts. The family is expecting too! I am really looking forward to the baby’s birth.

After this exchange programme, I think I am totally in love with this city. It is multi-cultural, also compatible. No matter which country you are from, the locals are all willing to give you a hand if you need help. They respect and accept different opinions if you work with them. They are optimistic even under pressure. Their lifestyle and attitude do affect me.

Last but not least, my experience would have been totally different if I had not had the help from IPM and Monash. If you want me to describe these three weeks, I would use the slang taught by my host father: it is fully sick!