In the Moment
By: Sophia Fraga, CAS ’20
Science Workshop – Hong Kong
I’ve never been good at directions– in fact, I still struggle with telling right and left. For most of my life, I’ve relied heavily on google maps to get me from A to B. Before coming to Hong Kong, I decided that I would not activate a phone plan while abroad. I wanted to be sure that I would be living in the moment, rather than living behind a screen. Not having access to a phone without wi-fi comes with some challenges– mainly, no google maps. In all honesty, having to navigate the city without a phone has allowed me to get to know Hong Kong better than I know Philly! I’ve memorized landmarks, and had to stay alert (and off my phone), to pay attention to where I am so that I will know how to get back to where I need to be. Rather than simply memorizing a route to/from work, paying more attentions to my surroundings has allowed me to develop a feel for where I am, and greatly improved my sense of direction.Â
Often, I do get lost. These times getting lost have been some of the most fun I’ve had in Hong Kong. Getting lost has led me to find my favorite coffee shop, as well as parks and street markets I didn’t know existed. It’s helped me to find areas I otherwise wouldn’t have, like the “cooked food market”, a waffle stand run by 84-year-old identical twins, or a park filled with people practicing tai chi in the morning.Â
An unexpected benefit to not having a phone is that it has also served as a great way to interact with the local community. Instead of looking something up, I have to ask people for directions, or where the nearest 7/11 convenient store is. This has served as a segue into other conversations, and has made me feel much more a part of the Hong Kong community.
Not having a phone plan has other benefits as well. When I’m out, I am unable to text or call people without wi-fi. Though this can be frustrating at times, it has all in all been a great thing. Texting can wait, but I will not be in Hong Kong for forever. Being off my phone has been a wonderful way to be in the moment and take in all Hong Kong has to offer.
The Global Research and Internship Program (GRIP) provides outstanding undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to intern or conduct research abroad for 8 to 12 weeks over the summer. Participants gain career-enhancing experience and global exposure that is essential in a global workforce. Placements and funding awards are available.