My last two weeks in Hong Kong have certainly been an experience!

I’d just like to begin this update with a quick statement regarding the recent developments within Hong Kong – I know that some of you might be concerned with the current situation and my placement. Despite the current climate in Hong Kong, I still feel very safe and everyone has continued to make me feel welcomed and at home. Furthermore, my commute, accommodation and workplace are still perfectly safe, with no demonstrations, and I feel sufficiently distanced from the unrest to feel a world away from it all.

 

Week two and three of the exchange have proved to be very exciting. I have found that with each passing day my professional knowledge and ability has continued to grow, especially with the help of the expert guidance I receive here at Hutchison. Whilst I’m definitely not anywhere near their level of competency and skill, and I’m certain I must have made a lot of mistakes along the way, they’ve continued to be excellent teachers and treat me like a valued member of the team. In doing so they have constantly provided me with new and exciting tasks – no two of which are the same. Furthermore, I find that no matter how big or small the job is it provides me with such valuable experience and helps me to contextualise a lot of the content I learned during my studies. A particular favourite task of mine so far, saw me working alongside some of the senior members of the department and providing input, alongside my thoughts and opinions, regarding the application of the Wates Principles in light of new requirements.

Additionally, weeks two and three have been exciting for other reasons.

It seems to be a little tradition here that, upon travelling abroad, you return with lots of snacks and treats for the office to enjoy. I can say that I have been spoiled rotten with the amount of food I have been given. It feels like every day I walk into the office and someone has something new and exciting they want me to try. Similarly, at lunch, I find myself frequently asked “do you have any lunch appointments?” and I know, from that point onwards, I’m about to experience some delightful food nearby. One particularly memorable day saw me turn up to work only to be whisked away immediately to a very grand 7-course luncheon hosted by the HKICS.

Now, I wouldn’t want you all to think I’ve just been a glutton during my time here and I’ve made sure that every weekend I visit something interesting or go on an adventure. During these two weeks, I’ve visited the giant Buddha statue and the famous Tai O floating village. The following weekend I was treated to a lovely tour around Hong Kong Island by one of my colleagues and, finally, I joined Ms Suen on an insightful historical tour around central Hong Kong.

Well, that’s my update for the last two weeks, I’m off to bed – ready to start my final week at the company!

Rory Herbert
WCCSA 2019 Hong Kong Intern.