Incoming Exchange Students
Testimonials
Körtélyesi Balázs
John von Neumann University, Hungary
Business Administration | Academic Year 2025/2026
Studying abroad in Macao at the University of Saint Joseph was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. During the programme, I had the opportunity to meet people from many different countries, improve my communication skills, and experience Asian culture from a new perspective. At the beginning, adapting to the different environment was sometimes challenging because of the language differences, cultural changes. However, the university community, professors, and international students were very supportive and welcoming, which helped me feel comfortable far from home. Through this experience, I became more independent, open-minded, and confident in unfamiliar situations. I also learned how important intercultural communication and adaptability are in an international environment. In the future, I would like to use the knowledge and experiences gained during the programme in my professional career and share them with other students who are interested in studying abroad and exploring new cultures.
Isabella Amadio
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
Business Administration | Academic Year 2025/2026
Hello! I am Isabella Amadio, an exchange student for the spring semester 2026. I am Italian though I’m attending the master’s degree in management at the university of Coimbra (Portugal) and I decided to study abroad for a semester. The only challenge I encountered during this semester is the classes at night. For master’s students classes are from 19:00 pm to 22:30 pm. I am used to attend classes in the morning back in Coimbra, or maximum till 20:00 pm. As well in Italy, back in my university, classes are run throughout the day. So, at the beginning it took me a bit to adjust to the schedule. But on the positive note of having class at night, is that you have the whole day free. Other than this, I didn’t encounter any other challenge. Something that I really appreciated and noticed about this experience is that, so far, all the people I met are very nice and kind, from the residence staff to the administrative office, the international affair office, the office for student and alumni affairs personnel. Everyone is welcoming and willing to help you. They have a quick response rate, and they take their time to meet you and get to know you and explain everything you might need. Shortly, there is a comfortable and nice environment. Also, the professors are really nice and competent. I liked all of them. But among all of them I have a few that stand out in my mind. I will not make names but, I noticed that they have rare traits, that are difficult to find in professors nowadays, compared to my previous experiences. Attending their classes was a pleasure. Of course some were more difficult than others, but still the professors make them more enjoyable, you felt involved and that you were actually part of the process of learning something, where your opinion is heard and you can communicate easily one to one with the professors, in short you were going to class happily and excited to learn something new and you did not felt it was a duty. Furthermore, they care about your growth, both academically and personally, that they are constantly motivating, pushing you out of your comfort zone and supporting you, for you to grow because they believe in you. I think this is important in your learning process, and what makes a difference. So, I think, overall, from when you start this experience till the end you will feel supported and loved from the personnel of this university. But this in my personal/subjective experience, how I felt with the good people I met. So, something that I learned from this programme, and it’s not my first experience as an exchange student, since I participate in an exchange programme also during my bachelor, is that it’s important to participate in every activity that the university is offering you, from cultural activities, trips, conferences, I mean everything. Even if it’s an entity outside of the university asking you to participate in an activity, I think it’s important to accept. It is important also for you to search for experiences that are out of your comfort zone and participate in them. Every challenge put in front of you or every possibility just accept it and of course take it with responsibility and conscience and be smart, especially the ones out of your comfort zone, that are the ones that will make you grow and allow you to get to know yourself better. Whether you are alone or with friends, don’t let this stop you from experiencing life, because you will meet people along the way, with some of them you will become friends other you will create network, even if you are tired, scared or sad and unmotivated, or if it requires a lot of effort from you, always say yes. I can ensure you will not regret that. If you participate you can understand if you like a thing or not, whether you are inclined or not to it, but if you never participate you will never know. My life motto is to live life without regrets. Of course it’s not always sunshine and rainbows, there will be a moment you will feel home sick, missing family, friends, food, everything you are attached to back home, and that why it’s important you circle yourself with friends or by yourself and go out, have random conversations with strangers, see the environment around you, try new stuff, new food, experiment everything, this way you will feel better even if it’s hard. I know some friends found it hard to adapt here at the beginning, but they were even more sad when they had to leave, say goodbye to friends and leave everything that they built here behind. So, it might be hard at the beginning, but it will be even harder once you will leave. So, take advantage of everything and built your future, you will not regret it. Especially, take your time and enjoy it and leave in the moment. Ah, don’t forget to travel! Finally, be kind and nice to others. As you are new, they are also experiencing everything for the first time. So, help them, involve them in your plan whether you are going out for a walk, to eat something, make them feel that they are not alone. Grow up together. I think sharing your experience, especially your first times with someone is special. And don’t isolate yourself, whether it’s in your room alone or staying always with the same people you feel comfortable with, don’t stay with the same people of your nationality but go out there and make new friends. Always give back to others. 2 Bonus tips: 1) don’t come with expectation. This is a tip I apply for everything in life always. See the world with your own eyes, and not with the ones of others or through expectations or stereotypes. Don’t let other people experience influence yours. Let it be yours. You will get pleasantly surprised. 2) Participate in the USJ international cultural carnival event! It’s the best. I wish they would organize more events like this. I hope this will help you. I wish you all a great experience.
Azénor De Sousa
Sorbonne Nouvelle University, France
Business Administration | Academic Year 2025/2026
My study abroad experience in Macao was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Living and studying in a new environment allowed me to discover a different culture, meet people from all over the world, and become more independent and confident. At first, adjusting to life in Macao was not always easy. Being in a new country on my own, I sometimes felt lonely and missed my family and friends. However, thanks to the welcoming atmosphere on campus, the support of professors and staff, and the friendships I developed throughout the semester, those feelings gradually disappeared. Over time, Macao became a place where I felt comfortable, supported, and truly included. One of the things that impressed me the most was the relationship between professors and students. The professors were very approachable and genuinely cared about their students’ well-being and academic progress. It was easy to ask questions, seek advice, and receive constructive feedback. The university made a great effort to ensure that exchange students were well integrated into campus life. Throughout the semester, many activities and events were organized, giving us countless opportunities to meet new people, learn about local culture, and build friendships. What I appreciated most was how open-minded, welcoming, and friendly everyone was. Local students, professors, and university staff were always willing to help. Their kindness created a supportive environment where I felt valued and encouraged.
Anna Julia Grandchamp Leme
São Paulo University, School of Communications and Arts, São Paulo, Brasil
Audiovisual | Academic Year 2024/2025
My experience in USJ was unique, truly one of a lifetime. Here, not only did I meet and engage with students coming from all over the world, from Angola to Myanmar, South Africa, and France, but I found a well-structured and incredibly open space created by the university—and most especially, by the OSAA—perfect for a feeling of comfort and belonging that permeated my whole semester. USJ offers a good variety of events and individual experiences—mostly, but not only, for the students that also live in the Residential Hall—such as the Moonlight party, the student clubs and their parties and activities, the farewell party for the exchange students, lectures, and many others. Also, as exchange students, we have the opportunity to strengthen the USJ community by becoming student ambassadors, a paid job that mostly is a project promoted by a professor or the university itself. I am truly happy to say I’m leaving Macao with many memories and presents from the university—physical and/or not!
Ekaterina Kabaeva
Saint-Petersburg University of Management Technologies and Economis, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Marketing | Academic Year 2024/2025
This semester at USJ gave me not only a vast experience of living in a foreign country with a different culture, but it also changed my life by 180 degrees. USJ truly provided me with favorable conditions for communicating with all the university students who share the same interests, goals, desires, and mindsets. Here, I found more friends than at my home university! The classes here are also a little different from those at my home university. At USJ, it’s more practical than theoretical, and the assignments I had were really interesting and enjoyable to complete. I don’t think I faced any meaningful difficulties or challenges because every time I needed help or had a problem to solve, the university was open to communication and ready to assist. The professors here also seemed very helpful and friendly, so I never hesitated to ask them questions. I truly love our campus and its faculty, especially the swimming pool. USJ has a lot of clubs, but some of them didn’t seem to be very active. For instance, I really wanted to participate in a beach cleanup with the Green Club, but they never organized it. However, that’s the only disappointing thing I can remember from my entire USJ experience. The music club was the best! I wish I could continue to be a part of it. In general, this semester gave me the best life experience, and I will try to come back here next year as an exchange student again ❤️.
Carolina Carvalhinho
IADE – Faculdade de Design, Tecnologia e Comunicação, Lisbon, Portugal
Marketing and Advertising | Academic Year 2019/2020
My name is Carolina, I am 22 years old and I come from Portugal! I was in Macao from August 2019 to January 2020 on an Exchange Programme. It was the best experience I have had so far, Macao quickly became home, and the people I was lucky to meet, soon became family. This experience was very enriching; it was the first time that I was living alone, away from home, family, and friends; long flights measured the distance. Since day one of my decision to go to Macao, I knew that I had made the right choice: Macao is a box of surprises, and every corner is always surprising. The culture and magic of the city are unforgettable and leave a considerable longing. USJ is an incredible University; the atmosphere and the spirit of unity are magical! The people who work at USJ every day to provide us with the best days of classes are incredible and helpful. For the first time, I wanted to go to classes, which is unusual! All the events they provide inside and outside USJ to promote our inclusion in the University and Macao are very well organised and neat! They get us closer to the culture of Macao and each other! I am very grateful for the opportunity; Macao and USJ will always have a special place in my heart!
Benjamin Arsène Connan
Lille Catholic University, Lille, France
Life Sciences | Academic Year 2019/2020
As a French student from the Lille Catholic University, I had the chance to carry out a semester of studies at the University of Saint Joseph, in Macao SAR. I loved the experience – it was unforgettable. To start, the city of Macao, although quite small has charm and a significant culture. The chaotic every day organisation of the city was a pleasure to discover, going from a narrow pedestrian street surrounded by old buildings to a large paved street in a more Portuguese style, or taking the bus to reach Cotai strip with all the luxurious casinos strewn around a pleasant little neighbourhood. This incoherent succession of architecture gives charm to the city and makes it interesting to experience. Without forgetting obviously, the ease of getting around, the good weather, and typical dishes (I miss cha siu fan!). The University of Saint Joseph, located under a rock full of greenery just on the top north part of the city, is much like this charming city. Teachers and administrative staff, always smiling and caring, will be able to advise you and help you on whatever problem you encounter. This small University is pleasant to live in and also facilitated the friendships I was able to make with people with different backgrounds, broadening my cultural horizons. Thanks to all of them. It is without hesitation that I recommend this University, and the city of Macao, for your studies, because of the incredible memories I created there, friends that I was able to meet and the charm that the city exudes. Thank you PIRO; thank you all!
Maria Castanheira
Universidade Católica Portuguesa – Faculdade de Ciências Humanas, Lisbon, Portugal Communication | Academic Year 2019/2020
Sometimes the best experiences in your life happen when you least expect them. From day one, I knew Macao was the best choice I had made. It was back in February 2019 that it all begun. I decided to take a leap of faith and choose one of the farthest destinations my university had an agreement with, alone, without knowing what would happen, who I would encounter along the way, whom I would befriend. I had the best months of my life, got to know a whole new culture, new places, and new people. Traveled a lot, checked off some of my dream destinations, but, above all, had a fantastic college experience. I got to know people from all around the globe, with different stories and backgrounds, making friends for life. From staff, professors, and PIRO, everyone was super supportive and allowed us to enjoy these months to their fullest. Macao was also a surprise. It is an incredible and beautiful place, full of things to do and perfect to create some memories. I could not have asked for a better experience, so believe me, if you want to learn, engage in new experiences, meet people from all around the world, and get out of your comfort zone, the University of Saint Joseph (in Macao) is undoubtedly your best choice.
Francisco Brás de Almeida
Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics, Lisbon, Portugal
Business Administration | Academic Year 2019/2020
In February 2019, I was in Portugal going about my normal life, when I realised I had 1 week to finalise my Exchange Programme Application. USJ in Macao was my first option out of 10, and luckily I got in. The arrival in Macao was amazing. The flight went from Lisbon to Hong Kong, and then my colleagues and I caught the bus to Macao. It was at night, and in the bridge, the lights from the casinos started to shine brightly as we were closer to Macao. What a vibe! The remaining 4 months were the best in my life. I do not know about you, but for me, I measure the quality of an experience by taking into account the people I find in my path. So, in USJ, it is not the about the amazing infrastructures it has, it is not about the finest quality of education, it is not about the terrific Residential Hall, the safety, the life quality, etc. For me, it was about the people I encountered and got to know. The Professors and Staff are friends, the colleagues are like brothers, and the PIRO is like your parents. I could mention a lot more people who would receive and welcome you as if they had known you for their whole lives, but I do not intend to write a book here lol. If you value relationships, friendship, or creating bonds, you will find your place in Macao, at USJ.
Joana Dâmaso
Universidade Católica Portuguesa – Faculdade de Ciências Humanas, Lisbon, Portugal
Communication | Academic Year 2018/2019
Sometimes you just know. You have this feeling that something truly amazing is about to happen. And I knew it. Since the first day I put my feet in Macao I knew that this experience would change my life. Guess what? I was not wrong at all. My months living in Macao and studying at USJ were a rollercoaster of emotions, challenges and discoveries. In Macao, this little piece of magic land, I learned that life is truly amazing when you have the audacity to challenge yourself and go beyond your comfort zone. I did that and, 10 thousand kilometres later, I found a wonderful group of people and together we made a home. I also found myself. I discovered more about myself in those months than I had discovered in the past couple of years. And I believe that happened because of the atmosphere that was created, the opportunities that I had and, most importantly, the people that I met, who made me want more and to be more. In those months, I took different classes on diverse subjects. I worked in some University events. I had the opportunity to do amazing projects that I would not be able to do in any other place. I found new passions and unraveled new skills. I tried and failed. But, most of all, I challenged myself and I learned. I learned that we can be whatever we want. I learned that time is relative. That, if you let it, life is a constant surprise. That there are no possible expectations when everything is too good. That the biggest improbabilities become the best surprises. That you can find family wherever you go. When I left Lisbon, one of my best friends told me: “Get ready to be the happiest you have ever been. There is nothing like Erasmus. Enjoy it!” and I thought to myself: “I am so happy in Lisbon. Here I have everyone that I love and everything that I need. It is not possible to be happier.” However, the truth is, within all the improbabilities, I found my happiest side in Macao. It took half a world to get there, but I made it. To that side of the world, that became my world. Macao of stories, Macao of memories, Macao of me, Macao of us. See you soon, dear Macao!
Raquel Jorge
Universidade Católica Portuguesa – Faculdade de Ciências Humanas, Lisbon, Portugal
Communication | Academic Year 2018/2019
Macao… oh Macao! Macao is the perfect collision between East and West. Macao is unique, Macao is special, Macao is my second home. I arrived in Macao, alone, without any idea of what was going to happen. Remembering the moment I landed in Hong Kong and everything was different, English is no longer heard and Cantonese becomes the predominant language. The question that I could not help but think, “Did I make the right decision?!”. On the way to the transfer from Hong Kong to Macao, I felt the weather for the first time, it was September and there was a mass of hot, humid air that made it hard to breathe. We have 45 minutes to an hour to reflect on what is to come, lost between the lights of Hong Kong and the casinos of Macao. “Where am I?!”, the question was still in my head. While waiting to disembark, “Bem Vindos a Macao” (Welcome to Macao in Portuguese) appears on the wall in front of me. How wonderful it was, it felt like home again, after more than 24 hours of travel. The welcome at USJ… oh USJ! The best University I have been to so far! The conditions are fantastic, the staff is second to none, the ambience and University atmosphere is amazing! Macao was unforgettable, I lived on the other side of the world with a group of people who became my second family. The homesickness was attenuated by my environment. If someone asked me if I would drop everything and go to Macao? THE ANSWER WOULD BE: OF COURSE! Choose Macao, choose USJ, there is no better place to feel at home.
Ellen Novida
LSPR Communication and Business Institute, Jakarta, Indonesia
Communication | Academic Year 2018/2019
Hello! Olá! 你好! In 2018, I got the opportunity to go to Macao to do a 6-month exchange programme. It was so thrilling to go alone to somewhere outside my country. It was an awkward hello at first but I never imagined I would feel a little bit sad (actually I was crying for days!) for leaving Macao. USJ is a big part of my story and gave me the best time of my life. I got to meet a lot of wonderful people from across the globe, to introduce my country and a little bit of my Indonesian culture to others, making new friends along the way. Not only that, educationally-speaking I got to experience new methods of learning in USJ/Macao that are so different to those in my country. Meeting new people as well as their culture was one of the many perks I experienced since USJ has lots of international students. I could tell you for days about how beautiful my Macao experience was, starting from the food, the never-ending festivals, the fancy malls, hotels and casinos, the beautiful people, the languages and cultures, and the list goes on… Going to Macao and being a part of the USJ exchange programme was one of the greatest choices I made. Now all I can do is reminisce about the beautiful days in Macao and hope to go for a visit soon!
Marianna Sciarra de Sousa
University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal Architecture
Academic Year 2018/2019
In September 2018, I flew to Macao so I could study a year abroad. I decided to go there because a girl from my University also completed an exchange programme in USJ and she did an amazing job promoting it – she made it seem truly amazing! It was my first time living alone and the fact that I was in a completely new place with new people and endless possibilities for new things to happen was an equation that resulted in a whole new person at the end. I made amazing friends from all over the world and had the possibility of making some of my most precious memories with them. Just ask the CPRO team, they know a few of them. For me, Macao is a little box that you will not regret opening and once it is open you will never want to close it back.
