Yukun Tao, a 20-year-old student at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, undertook an incredible journey. His destination? Durham University in the UK, where he planned to continue his studies. Ignoring his parents’ concerns, he made the trip, driving 6,800 miles through nine countries to start intense studies. Yukun’s harrowing 26-day journey His unyielding spirit of adventure and determination took him from September 1 to September 27.
He chose to go to Durham University because he was interested in its collegiate system. It was like being transported into the magical world of Harry Potter, he said. The biggest challenge came in convincing his parents. For months they worked to discourage him because they thought his plan was “nuts.” Yukun’s determination was unshakeable, and after six months of planning, he set out on the journey.
Yukun’s route passed through China, Kazakhstan, Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, and finally the UK. As he approached China’s border with Kazakhstan, he encountered trouble with his car’s engine. Sure he dealt with a loss of momentum, but he admittedly rallied fast. In two days, he had it fixed—something that would normally take more than a week.
“Usually, fixing it would take over a week,” – Yukun Tao
“But the engineers worked around the clock to help me get it back up and running.” – Yukun Tao
Leaving China especially difficult Considering the inability to leave the country. For Yukun, this meant guaranteeing his departure by 8 September to be able to continue his journey. It was his first foreign trip in almost 10 years.
The expedition withstood several challenges that necessitated precise planning, courage and inner strength.
“For my parents, I think they would worry more than feeling proud,” – Yukun Tao
Since getting settled here at Durham University, Yukun is indeed starting to plan for his return trip in May. This time he plans to return by car through Denmark, Norway and Finland.
“It really needs some spirit, some bravery to set off, because you’re facing a world with everything unknown, everything uncertain.” – Yukun Tao
Now settled at Durham University, Yukun is already planning his return journey slated for May. This time, he hopes to drive back via Denmark, Norway, and Finland.
