Alumni Spotlight

BSocSc offers us a high level of freedom regarding our academic choices and provides us with rich experiential learning opportunities including overseas exchange and internships under the two themes of Social Innovation and Global Citizenship. The flexible programme structure allows us to decide which discipline we wish to major in after we try out different subjects/disciplines during the first year.

Charis TIN

I completed my Social Innovation internship at Inner Edge, a local sports psychology consulting company. It has provided me with a very precious chance to learn practical skills and how to integrate what I've learnt in the classrooms with real-world settings, preparing me for future careers.

LEUNG Yat Sing

The flexibility to choose courses from a variety of topics allows me to understand the impacts of urban growth of contemporary societies from an interdisciplinary perspective. After graduation, I hope to further my studies in urban planning and to implement innovative solutions to transform Hong Kong into a vibrant and livable city, where everyone is happy to reside in.

Kylie Yuet Ning POON

HKU Journalism has provided me with many opportunities during my time as a student, equipping me with the skills needed to capture the first rough draft of history. During my time there, I was given the opportunity to work with the Associated Press and Agence France-Presse, which allowed me to cover the 2019 Hong Kong protests among other stories. Through this baptism by fire, I was given the chance to witness and record history as it unfolded, which would not have been possible without the education and opportunities provided by HKU Journalism. The past few years have been an interesting time to study journalism in Hong Kong, as the city faced protests, pandemic, and political change within the short span of three years. Despite this, I am grateful to my HKU professors, staff and fellow students for equipping me with the necessary skills to forge a career in journalism in these uncertain times. Photo credit: Isaac Wong

Harvey KONG

HKU journalism has prepared me for a career in international media. The four-year undergraduate program, which consists of traditional reporting and writing training, and new digital media courses, has given me the tools I need to be an all-rounded journalist in this rapidly changing new landscape where media is facing unprecedented challenges. My favorite course is Online Journalism, in which students could manage an online news agency and rotate to different roles in the newsroom. By letting students get a touch on various aspects of news operations, this practical exercise helped us explore our interests. The best part of the program lies in the well-connected internship opportunities which push us to put what we learn in the classroom into practice. In JMSC, we have a full-time career counselor who helps linking students with a diversity of media. They have honed my journalistic skills and build up my instinct to find great stories of global importance. I would not have been able to accomplish that without the guidance of my inspiring professors!

Vanesse CHAN

My time at JMSC is filled with too many good memories to count, but the capstone project stands out as the most memorable experience that comes to mind when I look back. Creating my own magazine with classmates as a final-year project was challenging, yet it was incredibly enjoyable due to the high level of autonomy provided by JMSC. This allowed us to unleash the journalistic and storytelling skills I developed over four years, complemented by professional guidance from professors in various fields, who offered valuable insights on writing style, photography, and visual design. The experience of producing an original publication was undeniably invaluable—especially for a journalism student. The flexible, multidisciplinary double-major program enabled me to choose courses that aligned with my interests, which significantly prepared me for my career. I wanted to focus on strategic communications and visual design while also gaining insights from my other major, Japanese Studies. Had I been restricted to a traditional journalistic training path, I may not have been as well-suited for my current position at Nintendo.

Andris HO

The classes are my favourite part of the journalism programme. Nothing can top the feeling of stepping into a classroom with like-minded, journalistic people who are also diversely talented, and getting ready to learn together. The valuable hands-on experience with camerawork from the video news production class helped me to pursue my passion project, Flair Magazine, a fashion magazine that features various ethnic cultures and clothing in Hong Kong. Using the skills from the reporting and writing classes, my groupmate Jimin and I conducted very in-depth interviews. We learnt so much about the technicalities of fabrics, the complex histories of traditional clothes, and why people continue to wear them to this day. It made me realise that the fun part of journalism is the never-ending process of learning just about everything. It also ignited my interest in fashion magazines.

Denise RAMOS

Social workers are change makers in the society. I have learnt how to empower individuals, families and communities to identify and develop strengths and resources to address personal problems and foster changes in the society during my 4-year time in HKU BSW.

LAM Tsz-wing

HKU BSW was very structured as it enabled me to comprehend essential theory, policy and research knowledge. Practice laboratory and placement successfully blended a wealth of academic learning and practical components with guidance. Students were always well supported when facing challenges in the workplace. HKU BSW is not only a place for knowledge acquisition and career development, but also for personal growth and reflection.

TSUI Long-ying

The BSW programme has provided me with knowledge of theories, practical learning experiences, inspiring insights shared by guest speakers, and two placement opportunities as a student worker in the field. Apart from core courses, we also selected electives based on our interests to delve deeply into specific approaches, therapies, and settings. I am glad to have had the opportunity to participate in a one-semester exchange in Sweden, where I gained international exposure. These four years not only equipped me with knowledge and skills to be a social worker but also were a journey of self-exploration and reflection.

CHOI Hiu Lam

BSW curriculum offers professional training that enables students to explore various disciplines, including social work theory and practice, social welfare, social policy, and human behavior and social development. In the third and fourth years, students are assigned to local and international agencies for practical placements under professional supervision. Upon graduation, students are eligible for registration with the Hong Kong Social Worker Registration Board as registered social workers.

TANG Choi Lei

I am grateful to join the HKU SWSAS family on this remarkable journey. The university curriculum and the opportunities offered have given me the chance to transform my dreams into actions. By studying courses like Creative Art and Adventure-Based Counseling, I have been equipped with the necessary skills to empower others. These skills have served as the foundation for my future professional development and innovative therapeutic approaches. I am deeply passionate about taking on the role of a social worker to provide the meaningful support I once received to those in need.

Jiang Ying Sum

I always thoroughly enjoyed studying about culinary cultures from an interdisciplinary perspective. My academic and extra-curricular journey at the BASc made me realise how I can utilise design thinking concepts to create models for people to engage with food cultures.

Aastha GAUR

The best thing about BASc is the close-knit community where I feel included and supported. I can always talk to my classmates and professors in our common room and Discord channel. Many of my classmates are my best friends at HKU who I can depend on. Also, when I encounter difficulties in my research projects, BASc professors are always willing to provide me with detailed and practical advice.

Henry POON

BASc is a degree perfect for people who constantly seek new challenges and vigorously want to explore the world. Back in secondary school, I was interested in both arts and social sciences. Though it was hard to study new subjects every semester, I enjoyed discovering interesting topics and relating them to my area of interest.

William YEUNG

The MAChDS program is not easy, but neither is it overwhelming. The program and the Department of Geography provide you with all the tools and guidance you need for success, although that is all for nothing if you do not bring yourself.

Mr. Joshua WHELLER

After having worked for a number of years, I found the MAChDS programme a thoroughly enjoyable and intellectually stimulating experience as a part-time mature student. The programme was well structured with a range of elective courses depending on student interests. I personally particularly appreciated the opportunity to join the first fieldtrip since Covid, as well as fairly independently undertake primary research to complete a dissertation, using methods and knowledge obtained over the programme. The overall experience of being a student again was important to me, including meeting interesting fellow classmates and academic staff over this time at HKU.

David James Sam BONSOR

The MAChDS program has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding. Being a local student with business and logistics backgrounds, I enjoyed the time immersing myself in learning China throughout the year. From public policies to international trade, this programme offered students with a broad spectrum of assignments such as debating and designing a poster – you would never get bored! The way of thinking acquired could always be applicable regardless of careers. Currently working in a global logistics company, I appreciate how this learning journey at HKU has brought positive impacts on my ability to communicate and work with people of different nationalities. I highly recommend the MAChDS programme to all students who are passionate about sharpening one’s analytical thinking and would like to understand China in various perspectives, e.g. the current development of China, including regional differences, development disparities, and its role in a globalised world. This course is beyond merely an encyclopedia. All contents were expressed under a rigorous academic foundation, and the assignment design has greatly improved my academic capability, especially my ability to conduct independent research projects and group assignments. Moreover, this one-year study has improved my problem-solving ability and laid a solid foundation for my subsequent development, whether for my future career or doctoral research. More importantly, I become friends with a group of excellent classmates. I really enjoy this one year of learning.

Edith Rachel LUI

MATPP program not only allowed me to gain professional knowledge, but also provided a very good experience to attend. Based in Hong Kong, it has been very beneficial for me to learn a lot about shipping, aviation, rail and road transportation.

Xu Xiaoyu

I chose the MATPP programme for my postgraduate study as I am passionate about the transport industry. The programme provides valuable information related to transport research, transport project appraisal, as well as different issues related to transportation, such as engineering, GIS, public transport, and more. The academics and professionals enthusiastically shared their valuable knowledge and experience, which made the learning process very enjoyable. I was also able to establish friendships with people from different positions in the transport industry. I believe that the MATPP programme is the key to exploring the future developments of global transport.

Tommy LAM

Before joining the MATPP programme, I never realised how much transport is linked to our daily lives and society in general. Studying different theories, policies, research methods, and case studies deepened my understanding of transport and broadened my horizons. After our field trip to Singapore and writing my dissertation, I now understand the great importance of transport: from the wellbeing of citizens, to the economic and social development of a city. The programme also provided a precious chance to meet like-minded people who are also interested in transport—I have many unforgettable experiences. The programme was extremely inspiring, and I look forward to utilising my knowledge and experience in the near future.

Cindy YEUNG

This programme is where you can meet artists, performers, business people, educators and even scientists from different cultures, and go through a journey together to become therapists. Healing, in the modern world, is both art and science. Being a therapist requires both a kind heart with the capacity to accept differences and a creative mind with textbook and real-world knowledge. It was from the exchanges with my fellow classmates and teachers that I began to find the balance.

Charity FOK

The master’s programme at HKU Journalism has been instrumental in my experience in starting out as an early-career journalist. As someone with very minimal experience in journalism before I started the programme, I was glad to be exposed to a broad range of skills which are increasingly important for reporters today – including video, digital, and data journalism.

Amy Sood

HKU Journalism taught me how to be a force for good in a professional way. As an emerging young journalist passionate about social justice and public service, journalistic professionalism is crucial to report compelling stories with strict ethics and integrity in the chaotic and controversial world.

Zixu WANG

It is a very enjoyable programme. You meet students from different professions and there is magical chemistry arises from the group work. The programme not only enlightens me on the integrative approach but also the new appreciation of Chinese culture. I look forward to more BMS projects contributing by the students of coming years.

Agnes LOO

The best part of this programme was the inspiring and wholesome environment provided by a team of dedicated faculty for students to learn and grow… the innovative curriculum aligned with my academic goals and career development of becoming a therapist. This is a place that allows you to express your thoughts, enhance creativity within intellectual discourses, and seek empowerment.

Angel CHAN

I came to the MNPM program with almost a decade of non-profit experience, in India, with a focus on talent acquisition and fundraising. The University of Hong Kong helped connect me with relevant scholarship opportunities that enabled me to confirm my admission. While I greatly enjoyed gaining context about the nonprofit sector in Hong Kong, China, Taiwan and Macau, perhaps what I learnt most from was the electives. The structure allowed us to pick the direction of our learning and I spent the year engaging with strategy, branding, board management, impact evaluation and fund development. While the learnings from the program were significant, the 2019-2020 academic year was challenging for all of us, first with the civic protests and then with the pandemic. The professors did their best to adapt to this environment and ensure our academics were uninterrupted. They were approachable, flexible and proactive with their help. Learnings from the MNPM degree helped increase my potential for impact within an organisation and I hope to leverage my enhanced knowledge and skill to influence social impact in the APAC region.

Nandini SETHI

Before I enrolled in this course, I had been working as a social worker for 4.5 years in Singapore. Coming into this course was a great decision for me, as I was exposed to the management side of the nonprofit sector, such as governance issues, strategic planning and management, performance measurement and assessment, among others. In particular, I appreciated the lecturers’ experience and expertise in their various domains, and their openness in sharing their insights about nonprofit management with us. We also had many guest speakers and site visits across the different modules, which further grounded our learning in the real world.

Alvin MAK Hoi-kit

I have been working as a frontline social worker for years, and I begin taking up a middle-management role. Yet, I have never been equipped with comprehensive management knowledge. This program has enabled me to network with other students from different professional backgrounds. With the sharing from and discussion with peers, I could grasp a holistic picture in the social service industry. This program design is very holistic.

Colin LEUNG

The programme not only equip me with the knowledge and acquire skills, but also brings me new insights, sharpen my analytical skills and broaden my vision through communicating with professionals from the NGO sector, all these are important elements for my career development to be a more professional and up-to-the-time CSR practitioner.

Karen LAU

I wanted to understand and explore the role that I could play in the corporate setting regarding sustainability, and this programme provided a very comprehensive range of topics that really helped me understand the corporate sustainability landscape.

Erica CHAN

As a member of the financial services industry, I have observed growing expectations from financial market operators, regulators, and other stakeholders in recent years with regard to the ESG performance of banks. The SLG (previously known as CEG) Programme equipped me with an understanding of the terminology used in the sustainability field as well as the issues facing businesses today. The Programme also provided me with the analytical skills and critical thinking needed to work effectively and confidently as a sustainability practitioner in the banking field.

David KIM

Sustainability has emerged as a key business priority to all industries and sectors. The SLG (previously known as CEG) programme is an interdisciplinary programme that offered me the exposure and opportunity to work with experts from various backgrounds and professions. I improved my business decision-making skills through the integration of sustainability principles and problem solving. The Programme has equipped me with knowledge of risk management strategies in sustainable finance and investment, which is advantageous for my career.

Sunny WONG Tsz-long

The HKU MSW programme significantly enhanced my reflective skills and understanding of social work, particularly through valuable placements. Guided supervision and self-analysis honed my ability to assess and refine my practice. Real-world challenges fostered my personal and professional growth also expanded the knowledge base and support network for my future career.

Jeffery TANG

Fruitful, inspiring, and meaningful are the three adjectives I used to describe the MSW programme. Not only did the teachers equip me with useful theoretical frameworks and practical techniques in the workplace, they also offered me many opportunities to reflect on my personal values and beliefs. Equally important, with great support and guidance from my supervisors, the placement experiences enriched my practice wisdom. Overall, the comprehensive learning experience and all-round exposure enhanced my overall competence as a social worker.

Mavis LO

The MSW programme was the cornerstone of my career. It equipped me with a stronger foundation in social services by developing a solid knowledge base in human behaviour, social environment, and public policy. It helped me to identify and analyze issues from new perspectives. Participating in such an unforgettable journey, I also gained invaluable and supportive friendships.

Cyrstal LEUNG

I am studying towards my PhD at the Department of Social Work and Social Administration, where I found it an exceptionally good fit to pursue my research interests in ageing and health. Currently, my research lies in the field of environmental gerontology. I am fascinated by the complex interplay between individual and environment in everyday life praxis. Through the lens of healthy ageing, I am seeking a deeper understanding of the meaning of age-friendly city by investigating how our physical and social environment can be shaped to promote health and well-being in old age.

Peichao Liang

I am interested in exploring how people experience embitterment in their suffering, how people can embrace life amid adversity, and transform suffering into resilience, wisdom, and growth. By researching on these shared, yet unique, human experiences of vulnerability and resilience, I wish to be a part of the collective effort in supporting and empowering people who suffer. My experience with the department of SWSA at HKU has been fruitful and insightful. I am encouraged to pursue my passion and interest, and to ponder on how I could contribute to people and society. Comprehensive support, guidance and resources are provided for us to foster our growth, improve our capability, and actualize our potential. In our department, students are inspired to continuously strive for research excellence, have deep compassion for people, and be motivated to translate research into social practices; and this is the kind of researcher I aspire to be!

Janelle