UCL Arts & Humanities forges links with City University of Hong Kong

My year began with an exciting visit to City University of Hong Kong as Distinguished Visiting Professor in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) and the School of Creative Media (SCM). I spent a week at the University getting to know CLASS and SCM in more depth and building links for staff, students and alumni of UCL to benefit from. Having been an external assessor for CLASS, it was great to see colleagues again and hear the great work they are doing.

My week started by giving a lecture to students and staff on one of my research areas – cinema and fashion. I was then hosted by colleagues in CLASS and SCM, gaining a richer understanding of their courses, research and exchange opportunities (for instance, around summer schools). I met with College leadership, associate deans and heads of department, all of whom were excited at the prospect of collaborating with us. I’m thrilled that, with the support of Global Engagement, we are moving swiftly towards a Memorandum of Understanding between our two institutions. We look forward to hosting CityU colleagues on a return visit to UCL very soon.

Hong Kong is also the home to a sizeable and enthusiastic UCL alumni community. My week was crowned by a wonderful dinner hosted by prominent members of the UCL Hong Kong alumni community at the spectacular Dynasty Club on Hong Kong Island, with incredible views across the harbour. The alumni in attendance spanned across UCL’s faculties including a recent graduate of our Arts & Sciences BASc programme!

I am looking forward to seeing a partnership with CityU develop over the next two years and growing the connection between our universities.