Studying abroad was an exciting yet terrifying idea for me at one point. Yet what pushed me through was one motto line that I still keep very close to my heart these days: “If you never try, you will never know.” I think that mentality encouraged me to explore my interests and my potential to the fullest. As a result, I participated in an international research competition, leading one of the sub-teams, and brought back the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Gold Medal in 2024. Because of that, I also had the opportunity to deliver my own TEDx talk at TEDxCUHK the year after, which, to me, is an incredible achievement on its own.
Yet, what I am most proud of being at CUHK and at Shaw College was the variety of experiences I was able to live through; from being a student ambassador, a master of ceremonies in multiple events, being part of the Shaw College International Student Society, to participating in the student exchange program. I think it was amazing to have the college’s support as part of every journey. Apart from Shaw College’s support through multiple scholarships, I felt that Shaw College had become a safe space for me; a place where I slowly turned my fear of living abroad into pieces of independence that I actually enjoyed.
Thus, what I would suggest to freshmen and other Shaw students is to embrace unfamiliarities and explore as many experiences as you can expose yourself to during your undergraduate life, especially since CUHK and Shaw College are now part of your support system. I think those experiences are invaluable, and they will turn into amazing stories you will be proud of in the future. Remember, if you never try, you will never know.
My interest in archaeology first developed during my undergraduate studies. Through my coursework, I was introduced to archaeological sites and collections both locally and globally. Analysing archaeological material from different periods and regions sparked my curiosity about how even the smallest fragments of objects can carry rich information, revealing insights into power relationships, religious beliefs, and human experiences. My subsequent internships at museums and cultural institutions enabled me to observe how artifacts serve as important mediums to connect diverse communities. These experiences have inspired me to reflect on how innovative narrative approaches can be used to effectively convey relevant knowledge to the public within the local culture and heritage sectors.
In the coming year, I will pursue the MA in Archaeology at University College London (UCL). Through its rigorous and interdisciplinary training, I aim to develop a more systematic approach to interpreting archaeological artefacts and the social and cultural contexts from which they emerge. I seek to strengthen my knowledge in three key areas: research methods, theoretical foundations, and practical skills. I hope to bring the archaeological theories and curatorial strategies I have learned abroad back to Hong Kong, striving not only for academic advancement but also to transform knowledge into public contributions with empathy and care, thereby making tangible heritage more accessible and relevant to local communities.
Ultimately, I endeavour to translate the expertise I acquire into more inclusive and creative exhibitions and public education programmes, reflecting the College’s founding aspiration of “Learning, innovation, and benefitting humankind.”
I am going to pursue a master’s degree in Applied Biological Chemistry in the University of Tokyo. My research will be focused on the behavioral effect of pheromones and its molecular rationale.
My personal experience has taught me that hormones exert extensive affect physiologically and neurology. Since secondary school, I suffered from severe acne, and with the help of a gynecologist, I discovered the root cause was irregular hormonal fluctuation, particularly involving estrogen. Similarly, my mother's menopausal symptoms have also been linked to a drastic drop in estrogen levels. These experiences have showed me the possible impact hormones have on the body, igniting my interest in endocrinology and motivating me to pursue further studies in this field.
During my time in University of California, Berkeley, a course called Hormones and Behavior, taught by Professor Lance Kriegsfeld, opened my eyes to the intimate interplay between female gonads, hormones, and neurons. It was the first time I saw the profound influence that endocrine signals can have on our brain function. Throughout my undergraduate years, my three research internships have taught me that I know just enough to realize how much I do not know, and this realization motivates me to pursue research and deepen my understanding of this field.
Ultimately, I hope to continue research in female behavioral neuroendocrinology, advancing both women's brain health and public understanding of neuroscience, and highlighting how physiology and emotion are intimately linked.
I will be pursuing an MPhil in Biological Science (Developmental Biology) at the University of Cambridge, where I hope to study the developmental mechanisms that govern how human organs and tissues form throughout different stages of life. By understanding the principles underlying these developmental processes, we can gain deeper insights into disease development, tissue damage and repair, laying the foundation for more effective therapeutic approaches in the future, including regenerative and tissue repair strategies.
During my four years at CUHK, I was fortunate to participate in a wide range of community service activities, which strengthened my commitment to serving others. After graduation, I worked in research at the CUHK Faculty of Medicine for over a year, while also volunteering for nearly two years at Tseung Kwan O Hospital and Cheshire Home, Shatin. My research experience allowed me to appreciate the value of scientific discovery, while my volunteer work gave me first-hand insight into the impact of illness on patients and their families. Together, these experiences reinforced my aspiration to pursue biomedical research and to improve patients' quality of life through scientific research.
Looking ahead, I hope to continue my academic journey by combining my passion for scientific discovery with the goal of advancing medical treatments. I aspire to apply my knowledge to contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches, improve patients' quality of life, give back to society, and uphold Shaw College's motto of "Learning, innovation and benefitting humankind"
I will be pursuing Biomedical Informatics at the National University of Singapore because this field brings together two things I care deeply about: people and problem-solving. My interest in it became more personal when I was taking care of a family member and saw how stressful it can be to manage medical reports, discharge notes, and scattered information that do not always come together clearly. That experience made me realise that healthcare is not only about treatment: it is also about how information is organised, communicated, and used.
At the same time, my academic background has shown me how much potential there is in biomedical data. Through my studies in biomedical sciences, bioinformatics, microbiome analysis, and clinical research, I became increasingly interested in how data can support earlier diagnosis, clearer follow-up, and better decision-making. I have also seen, through research and public health work, that scientific knowledge becomes truly valuable only when it can be translated into something practical and useful for patients and clinicians.
That is why I want to train in biomedical informatics. I hope to strengthen my skills in data analysis, digital health, and healthcare innovation, while learning how to build solutions that are both technically sound and easy to use in real settings. Professionally, I want to contribute to tools and systems that make healthcare more efficient and more humane. Looking further ahead, I can also see myself pursuing a PhD in this field, especially if it allows me to explore the biological information behind neurodegenerative diseases more deeply and turn that understanding into better support for patients and families.
Personally, I hope to bring that learning back to Hong Kong and use it to support families who need clearer and kinder care pathways. For me, this is what “Learning, innovation and benefitting humankind” means learning something new, and turning it into something that genuinely helps others.
As a recipient of the Student Exemplary Award of Shaw College, I am honored to share my growth over the past four years. I study Data Science and Policy Studies, an interdisciplinary and distinctive programme. At the age of eighteen, feeling lost and confused about the future, I chose this major with uncertainty and curiosity.
Throughout my undergraduate journey, I have built solid foundations in data science by mastering programming skills and learned how to coexist harmoniously with AI amid this era of rapid technological advancement. Meanwhile, modules in policy studies have deepened my understanding of Hong Kong’s local policy frameworks and the operational workflows of government bodies. This learning journey has also cultivated my ambition to contribute to the progress of society. Hence, I discover a strong passion for SDGs and environmental protection. After obtaining a professional certification in ESG Investment to deepen my expertise in sustainable development, I will also continue my postgraduate studies at CUHK, pursuing a Master Degree in GeoInformation Science and Smart Cities.
Outside academics, sports have always been an indispensable part of my life. As a member of the CUHK women’s basketball team and Shaw College badminton team, I have gained unparalleled joy and sincere friendships. Moreover, I am deeply enthusiastic about public speaking. As an outgoing person, I thrive on connecting with others and was honored to win the CUHK Public Speaking Competition Championship. Through a wide array of college activities, I have honed my interpersonal and communication abilities. I firmly believe that we should never shy away from voicing our thoughts by embracing every opportunity to express ourselves with confidence and conviction.
Guided by my favourite motto “Get busy living, or get busy dying” from movie The Shawshank Redemption, I hope all freshmen from Shaw College dare to explore boldly.
Embrace uncertainty, keep exploring, and always stay passionate about the world ahead.
As a student majoring in Computational Data Science, I have developed a profound passion for Artificial Intelligence and data science. I love using the professional knowledge I have acquired to create things that can truly help people. For me, nothing brings greater joy than turning abstract code and theories into tangible, useful tools that everyone can easily access and benefit from in daily life.
"Persistence in action bridges the gap between vision and reality." I firmly believe that the key to success lies not in a single moment of brilliance, but in continuous, incremental growth and adjustment.
Lastly, I believe university life offers an unparalleled canvas for exploration. In this rapidly evolving AI era, do not confine yourselves within traditional boundaries. Pay attention to the needs around you, and be brave enough to build and create. When you treat every challenge as an iterative process to upgrade your capabilities, you will surely discover your limitless potential.
It is truly an honour to be recognized as a recipient of the Student Exemplary Award for 2025/26.
Throughout my studies, I have discovered that real knowledge exists beyond textbooks and classrooms. Experiential learning leaves the deepest mark. I will never forget the class about the “growth mindset,” and how I practised it during my internship in Year 2. Equally invaluable are the people I met along the way — classmates, professors, and mentors — whose support and wisdom became indispensable assets in my journey. Extending this learning abroad through an exchange programme has been transformative. Immersing myself in another culture challenged me to adapt independently, reminding me that growth often comes when we step outside the familiar.
My motto for success is from Steve Jobs: “You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.” I strive to live in the present and focus on current challenges, even when the future feels uncertain. At times, I have felt lost, unsure of where my journey might lead. Yet I believe that every lesson, every experience, is a stepping stone that prepares me for opportunities ahead.
I still recall a quote from a lecturer in my first year: “Seek out at least one place where your heart truly belongs. Do not wait until graduation to realize you have walked the journey without finding a home for your spirit in CUHK.” At a time when I felt directionless, those words inspired me to join societies, organize voluntary events, and dedicate my time to meaningful service. Now, I would like to pass this message on to newcomers. I hope each of you will discover a community, an activity, or a cause where you feel a genuine sense of belonging. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to Shaw College, especially its staff, for their kindness and for providing opportunities that allowed me to test my limits and create unforgettable memories at CUHK.