Twinkle Lok came to Skyline during the Spring semester of 2012 at the age of 18 to study cell and molecular biology. Lok is from Hong Kong and was anxious to study overseas for she was not satisfied with China’s educational system. She found Skyline through a friend from Hong Kong who highly advised that anyone interested in pursuing the study of science to go to Skyline.

“I don’t like the education system in Hong Kong. I don’t understand why the government requires students to do 40 book reports a semester or how you are allowed to work in the lab only once a month even if you are in an advanced school,” Lok said. “Teachers put a lot of pressure on students and the way they grade make[s] students very competitive against one another.”

She does, however, agree with Hong Kong’s motives and student’s learning outcomes as teachers challenge students to complete assignments that are very difficult but are up to the students’ level to finish these assignments successfully. Students in Hong Kong learn to take these challenges as a good thing, whereas students in the US get frustrated and intimidated by the challenge, according to her observations.

Since attending Skyline, Lok has been working at the Chemistry Stock Room, is a tutor at the MESA Center and is the President of the International Affairs Student Club. As you can tell, she is very involved with our community and enjoys helping those who have a hard time, especially those having a hard time understanding math and science material. Lok is very satisfied with Skyline’s science department and has been learning a lot since she now has the opportunity for plenty of hands-on experience.

Although Lok has enjoyed her experience at Skyline, let alone experiencing the true American culture, she has dealt with some cultural differences.

“Hong Kong is crazy. People are walking really fast, as if they’re running. Everyone is in a rush and have places to go but only because people are prompt. Here, on the other hand, people are too relaxing,” Lok said. “They make plans, claim it as urgent but they’re never on time! In my culture, it’s disrespectful and seen as a big deal if you’re not on time.”

She manages to be on time with whatever commitment she makes to show her willingness and respect.Lok has only been here for one year and plans to finish Skyline within four semesters. She has been working on a transfer program to continue her education in a university here in the US with hopes to pursue her career in America as well.