UTM strongly supports students in making the most of the overseas exchange opportunities offered by the University. Culinary Arts Management undergraduate Jacob Wong decided to seize the chance during his first year as a UTM student, going to France on a three-week exchange this summer
Jacob Wong Meng Hou, a first-year student in the Culinary Arts Management Bachelor’s Degree Programme at UTM, grasped a unique opportunity this summer for a three-week exchange programme in France. The option, sponsored by the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macao, aimed to immerse students in the French language and in cooking techniques. All expenses were covered – including tuition, transportation and accommodation – and a daily-living allowance was provided.
Reflecting on his time spent in Rouen, capital of the northern French region of Normandy, Jacob describes the experience as “exciting.”
He first learned about the programme from one of his lecturers at UTM. “This was undoubtedly a very valuable opportunity,” says Jacob. “So, I applied immediately.” He admits that the application process was somewhat complicated, but acknowledges the support he received from UTM, which helped him secure his place.
During his stay in France, Jacob attended French-language classes every weekday morning. Initially placed in a beginners’ class, he requested to be transferred to the elementary class by the second week. “Although it was quite challenging at the beginning, thanks to the help of my classmates and teachers, I was able to keep up,” Jacob recalls.
Afternoons were dedicated to cooking classes at the local unit of the Fauchon school of culinary arts. Among other skills, he learned “new ways to handle ingredients,” Jacob says.
The exchange featured tours of local businesses such as wine retailer Caves Pierre Noble, Beyer Artisan Chocolaterie, and the historic Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde. Programme participants also attended a workshop with local professional bakers and cheesemakers, learning the art of appreciation and pairing during tastings.
“In addition, we visited tourist attractions in Normandy to experience the region’s history and culture,” Jacob adds. The cultural immersion was a highlight for him and inspired him to try to return to France for work experience in the future, to deepen his understanding of the philosophy and concepts driving French gastronomy.
Regarding his summer exchange, “I was able to get to know people from different countries, and getting along with them was the most unforgettable experience from the programme,” says Jacob. “Everyone was friendly and tolerant, and each person shared information about their country’s culture and about their experiences, with the others.”
Overall, Jacob says his first year at UTM has been marked by fulfilling long-held aspirations. “Things that I’ve always dreamed of happened in my first year as a student,” he states. “For example, attending a question-and-answer session with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, and going to France for an exchange.”
As UTM continues to forge fresh cooperation agreements with universities and partner institutions globally, students such as Jacob are presented with additional exchange opportunities, including visits to renowned overseas universities, short-term summer exchanges, semester exchanges, and dual degree programmes. “These are opportunities allowing us to be exposed to different educational cultures and to broaden our international horizons,” says Jacob.
“As the university’s global network continues to expand, I believe it will bring more international opportunities and development space for our students,” he concludes, encouraging fellow UTM colleagues to seize these opportunities.
Editor: UTM Public Relations Team
