SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE UNDERGRADUATE NEWSLETTER 2025
Good day, ladies and gentlemen. This is your captain speaking – well, sort of! Let’s think of me as your friendly guide on this exciting journey – university life. Welcome aboard GCS 5411 and QSA 54121, taking you straight to the destinations you desire. We’re currently cruising at an altitude just above the stress level of exams and projects. The weather outside is looking as bright as your futures. With a little luck and a strong tailwind (plus plenty of your determination), we’ll be reaching your chosen destinations on schedule, or maybe even earlier – who knows? Just open your eyes and minds to all the stunning views as we approach. Remember, your life is what you design it to be. Our School is here to guide you in making smart and ethical choices along the way. Each class you take and every experience you have is a stepping stone toward crafting your unique path – whether academic or professional. All our crew – i.e., faculty and staff – will take care of you and provide you with the best educational experiences possible. On behalf of the entire crew, thank you for choosing to y with us. Until we arrive, sit back, relax, STUDY, ATTEND CLASSES, and get ready to embrace the excitement of university life. May your revisions be productive, and your deadlines be far away! Once again, welcome aboard. Have a very pleasant ight! 1 For those who did not go through JUPAS, [JS]5411 is the JUPAS code for BSc in Global China Studies (GCS) and [JS]5412 is the JUPAS code for BSc in Quantitative Social Analysis (QSA). 1 WELCOME MESSAGES Professor James WONG Associate Dean (UG) and GCS Program Director
We are living in a world of data, whether you like it or not. Instead of being dictated by data, we should learn to tame data for a better world, just like our ancestors learned how to utilize hydraulic power which would otherwise be devastating to the survival of human society. We shall use big data not only for a more productive economy and more prosperous society, but also for fair and just communities. Data is not derived from a vacuum, but from concrete cultural, social, and political circumstances. Without a deep understanding of society and economy, we would not be able to make full use of data for a better human society. The Quantitative Social Analysis (QSA) program offered by the Division of Social Science is geared toward preparing students for this rapidly changing environment. The interdisciplinary nature of our program, with faculty from a wide range of social science backgrounds all using cutting-edge quantitative analysis technology to investigate important issues of the day, will prepare students for a world in which diverse perspectives are more valuable than ever. The program offers diverse courses which aim to help students learn necessary techniques of quantitative analysis, as well as the social and political world behind data. Our training is intended to provide students with a skill set that will make them leaders in domains of turning quantitative data into useful insights about humanity. We also urge you to explore new domains to apply skills of quantitative analysis, as well as new ways to generate data. This is a challenging journey, but you are not alone. Faculty of QSA and other programs in SHSS are ready to provide advice and suggestions whenever you need them. We take your problems as ours and your achievements as our common pride. As QSA director, I am excited to meet all the new and returning students. Let’s work together to build a true community, a community of knowledge and life. 2 Professor Wenkai HE QSA Program Director
3 ALUMNUS’ STORY Setting Sail: Embarking on His Academic Journey in Hong Kong In his search for a program that integrates academic rigor with an international perspective and addresses the complexities of China, Wenhao selected Global China Studies (GCS) as his primary major, recognizing it as a re ection of Hong Kong’s identity as a bridging harbor that connects China with the world. From his viewpoint, the faculty members of the School of Humanities and Social Science (SHSS) —drawn from top institutions globally—brought international expertise to bear on Chinese issues, and the curriculum consistently emphasized the importance of linking local knowledge to broader transnational debates. Throughout his academic journey, the foundational training in thinking across national and cultural boundaries has continued to shape his intellectual approach. This foundation has fostered a sociological imagination that resists parochialism and emphasizes understanding social phenomena in a broader context. Unforgettable Memories: Pursuing a Dual Degree in Japan As part of the global study opportunity offered by SHSS, Wenhao enrolled in the dual degree program with Waseda University in Tokyo, where he pursued a second degree in Economics. Immersed in Waseda’s distinctive academic culture, which emphasizes formal modeling, quantitative methods, and empirical approaches to social dynamics, Wenhao found a complementary balance to his interdisciplinary education. While Global China Studies provided rich engagement with substantive, cross-disciplinary questions, Waseda equipped him with additional concrete analytical tools for empirical research. This combination continues to inform his scholarly orientation, integrating statistical rigor with theoretically grounded, substantively important questions. JIANG Wenhao (GCS Class of 2020) Wenhao completed the HKUST-Waseda Dual Degree and graduated from the Global China Studies (GCS) program in 2019. He was one of the recipients of the Academic Medal. He then earned his PhD in Sociology in May 2025 and is now an Assistant Professor in Sociology at Duke University, USA.
4 Beyond his academic pursuits, Wenhao participated in various enriching extracurricular activities. Partnering with his Chinese and Japanese friends, Wenhao’s team won the university’s rst data science competition, where they applied machine learning techniques to forecast the outcomes of the 2019 Japanese upper house election. Once-in-a-Lifetime: Outbound Exchange in Europe Through a GCS-sponsored opportunity, Wenhao enrolled in a summer program at Utrecht University in the Netherlands during his second year of study. He studied European history through seminars and faculty-led museum visits while traveling across the region with peers from around the world. This exchange experience created many unforgettable memories beyond the classroom; notably, he even went skydiving over the Swiss countryside. Reminiscing about his exchange journey, Wenhao thought that he could hardly have imagined without the opportunities that GCS made possible. Explore More: Unlock Your Potential to Navigate Your Journey Ahead For students aspiring to thrive in academia, Wenhao suggested that they be intellectually omnivorous during their undergraduate years. The Global China Studies program, with its wide-ranging disciplines across the social sciences and humanities, exempli es an interdisciplinary approach that encourages crossing traditional academic boundaries. More broadly, the university experience provides an invaluable opportunity for students to broaden their academic perspectives before the inevitable specialization that comes with advanced study or professional careers. Embracing diverse elds of knowledge cultivates a versatile and enriched intellectual foundation that bene ts both scholarly and career pursuits. Actively trying different paths before entering the job market is Wenhao’s another piece of advice. He observed that some individuals thrive in environments where they have spent years focusing on one hard question, while others are better suited to fast-paced, collaborative work—whether in administration, business, or industry. There is no superior option here; the important key is to nd a direction that aligns with your interests, personality, and working style. He encouraged students to pursue diverse experiences—such as internships, research projects, student leadership roles—before making any rm decisions. Even if people choose a path that does not t, it is also acceptable. The so-called “social clock” is far more exible than is often imagined.
5 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES HKUST Information Day 2024 The booth attracted many visitors, captivated by a claw machine. On that day, our school also offered consultations, student sharing and thematic talks. Lantern Festival Celebration – Mochi Cookies Giveaway Our Acting Dean, Prof. Cameron Campbell, surprised students with a mochi cookie giveaway in several classes and the UG common area. Interview Skills Workshop SHSS has partnered with the Career Center to offer small-group career workshops each semester, tailored to students’ needs. M+ Visit SHSS students visited the captivating arts exhibitions at the M+ Museum. The immersive tour deepened their understanding of the unique stories behind the artworks. NOV 2 0 2 4 FEB 2 0 2 5 FEB 2 0 2 5 MAR 2 0 2 5 Punch Needle Embroidery Workshop Punch needle embroidery is no easy task! From threading the yarn to mastering tension, each step requires focus and patience. MAR 2 0 2 5
6 Welcome Dinner The Welcome Dinner brought together SHSS year-1 freshers, exchange students, faculty, alumni and staff, celebrating the reunion of the SHSS family. Crochet Workshops The workshops were led by Year 3 GCS student Winky Lee, who organized and facilitated two crochet sessions. Wellness Room Opening Introducing the rst Wellness Room on campus! This chilling zone is exclusively for SHSS students to play games, create handcrafts, and enjoy massages. Farewell Gathering As the Spring Semester came to a close, Year 4 GCS and QSA students gathered at the Dean’s Suite for a farewell lunch with faculty members. APR 2 0 2 5 APR 2 0 2 5 SEP 2 0 2 5 AUG 2 0 2 5 SHSS Wellness Day Before the semester began, freshers participated in academic talks and a campus hunt to connect with peers and explore the school environment. MAR 2 0 2 5
7 MA Chun Kit (GCS) Assistant of Legislative Council Member (Kenneth, Lau Ip-Keung) and District Councilors (Zinnie, Chow Tin-Yi) Chun Kit (right) joined the internship program offered by the Business and Professionals Alliance for Hong Kong (BPA). Working alongside councilors and fellow assistants, he learned the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving common goals. Chun Kit also gained insights into how legislation is proposed, debated, and passed, while observing council meetings enhanced his understanding of the decision-making process. INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES Besty TSOI (GCS) AO Summer Intern, Tourism Commission Besty's nine-week Administrative Service internship at the Tourism Commission under the Culture, Sports, and Tourism Bureau offered her an invaluable opportunity to assist in the development of the “Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0”. It deepened her understanding of policy formulation and the challenges behind turning ideas into actionable plans. She also took part in in-depth site visits across Hong Kong, which fueled her passion for showcasing the city's unique character. This journey was not only professionally rewarding but also personally enriching. Timothy LAM (GCS) General Of ce Management Intern, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Of ce (Singapore) Timothy was delighted to serve as the General Of ce Management Intern at HKETO in Singapore. This unique experience broadened his understanding of public administration and expanded his knowledge in international policy and investment promotion. Andy YAU (GCS) Part-time Intern at MCP Asset Management, Part-time Assistant at BCG & Research Summer Intern at CITIC Group China Securities Andy's (left) internships followed a purposeful path, connecting the knowledge he gained at Global China Studies program with real-world settings. He began on the buy-side at MCP Asset Management, sharpening his analytical skills with hedge funds. He then moved into strategy at The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he tackled market challenges for both large corporations and new Web3 clients. His journey eventually led him to a sell-side research position at CITIC Group China Securities, where he turned exclusive industry intelligence into practical insights on the critical AI sector. This planned progression—from investor to strategist to market analyst—has given him a unique, well-rounded view of how businesses really work.
8 Hazel KONG (GCS) Student Intern, Hong Kong Economic and Trade Of ce (Toronto) & Marketing and PR Associate, CBR Media Hazel completed her internship with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Of ce (HKETO) in Canada, where she gained a deeper understanding of Canadian culture and observed how HKETO works closely to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and Canada. Additionally, Hazel worked at a motorsport's agency, where she joined the Macau Grand Prix and collaborated with Mercedes-AMG to host a VIP car testing event. Working with Google Pixel, Sephora, and Net ix has also broadened her perspectives on the global motorsports market, pursuing her dream as a passionate F1 lover. Chavi MO (GCS) Business Operations Intern, Baidu Inc During her two-month internship in Beijing, Chavi focused on validating and optimizing Large Language Models (LLMs), applying prompt engineering, task decomposition, and cross-model analysis to evaluate AI performance. She examined how different agents were invoked in work ows and re ned prompts to enhance accuracy. These experiences strengthened her con dence in prompt design, structured analysis, and cross-functional collaboration under pressure, while empowering her to integrate humanities and social science knowledge with technology and approach problem-solving with both rigor and creativity. Gordon NG (QSA) Fintech Placement Analyst, Hong Kong Monetary Authority Gordon engaged deeply with nancial technology, focusing on project ensemble and blockchain application in bank settlement and cross-border payment systems. He contributed by analyzing data and generating insights to support the development of Project Ensemble, while collaborating with cross-functional teams to evaluate the potential impact of innovative ntech solutions on the nancial sector. This internship was an excellent t for his Quantitative Social Analysis major at HKUST. The analytical skills he developed assist him in solving complex nancial problems with a data-driven mindset. Meanwhile, his academic background in social dynamics provided a solid foundation for understanding the regulatory and societal implications of ntech advancements. Angela MUI (QSA) Intern, The Hong Kong Jockey Club As a Healthy Community Intern, Angela supported the development and assessment of strategies to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Hong Kong. She conducted operational reviews of local clinics through site visits and condition checkups. Angela further honed her analytical and organisational skills by contributing to the grant-making process. Her research into local and international funding mechanisms informed strategic decisions for community health initiatives. By collaborating with teams and compiling different reports, she gained practical insights into public health programming and philanthropic innovation.
9 STUDENTS’ ACCOMPLISHMENTS Bennett WONG (GCS) Bennett (center) is a dedicated Go player who recently rekindled his passion after a long break since university. Motivated by invitations to prestigious events like the Four Seasons Cup, the Hong Kong International University Go Competition 2024, and the Thailand International Go Congress 2024, he dove back into the game with enthusiasm. Despite facing two early setbacks, Bennett's hard work and determination paid off when he secured 2nd place at the 2024 Miaoli Guangxiu National Go Open Tournament. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of pursuing one's passions. Andy YAU (GCS) During his studies at HKUST, Andy has been awarded four prestigious scholarships recognizing his academic achievements and social contributions. Last summer, he received the HSBC Hong Kong Scholarship. This year, he reaches another signi cant milestone by earning the For Our Future Scholarship, HKUST Award for Social Good as well as the HSBC Greater Bay Area (Hong Kong) Scholarship this year. Over the past two years, Andy has been granted a total of HKD 183,000 in scholarships, re ecting his commitment to excellence and cultivating positive impacts within the community. Ashleigh MA (GCS) Ashleigh (left) represented Hong Kong in the Chinese Athletics Championships, held in Quzhou, Zhejiang, where she competed in the 400 metres hurdles event. Finishing the race just half a second behind her personal best, she demonstrated remarkable determination and skills. This competition provided a valuable opportunity for her to go head-to-head with most of the top athletes in China, enriching her experience in high-stakes environments. The challenge of performing under pressure has taught her the importance of maintaining composure and nding effective ways to relax, ultimately enhancing her performance. She views this experience as a signi cant step in her athletic journey, motivating her to strive for excellence in future competitions. This November, she will represent Hong Kong at the 15th National Games, competing in the 400m, 400m hurdles, and 4x400m relay races.
10 Kathy NG (GCS) The Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2024 has been a life-changing experience for Kathy (left), igniting her passion for sustainability and innovation. As the founder of MetaGreenX, she has leveraged overseas study opportunities in Canada and Singapore to deepen her understanding of global environmental challenges. Mentorship from industry leaders and involvement in hands-on AIoT projects have empowered her to develop cutting-edge solutions for greenery conservation. This journey has blended academic rigor, professional growth, and societal impact, inspiring her to transform environmental challenges into opportunities. Through the scholarship, Kathy has gained invaluable insights and networks, strengthening her commitment to drive sustainable change. She is excited to continue this mission, creating a greener future with MetaGreenX. Andy YAU (GCS) and Bennett WONG (GCS) Andy (second right) and Bennett (center) participated in the Hang Seng Bank x HKFYG’s “Seek Our Ways” Ideation Programme (Social Innovation). Competing against nearly 1000 students, their team has won the Grand Award and My Favourite Team Award in the tertiary category. They developed an innovative biomaterial by transforming waste pulp from the juice industry into a durable, eco-friendly material that resembles leather. Their technology boosts the bio-based content in the pulp to more than 85% while cutting carbon emissions by 95% compared to conventional materials. This achievement presents a sustainable alternative to synthetic fabrics and offers a practical solution to the limited food waste recycling facilities.
Charis LO (GCS) HKUST – Waseda Dual Degree Program During her studies in the GCS program, Charis developed a strong interest in politics and international relations, which inspired her to pursue a dual-degree program that HKUST partnered — Waseda University’s School of Political Science and Economics. Studying in Japan, Charis was eager to enhance her knowledge of politics and embrace the challenges of independent living in a foreign country. She expressed deep gratitude for the insightful conversations with professors; the friendships formed through student clubs, group projects, competitions, and internships—all of which enriched her learning experience. Yuyu FU (GCS) Semester at Sea Program Yuyu, recipient of the C.Y. Tung Scholarship, was awarded USD 25,000 to participate in the Semester at Sea exchange program. Over the course of more than 100 days, she sailed across three continents and ten countries, studied subjects such as International Relations, US-China Relations, Religions, and Global Studies — aligned with her GCS program and provide fresh perspectives on politics and global issues. Her journey took her to the Netherlands, Morocco, South Africa and more, where she deeply immersed herself in local histories and cultures, and even exploring the wildlife on a safari. Hazel KONG (GCS) Sciences Po, France Hazel spent a semester studying at Sciences Po’s Paris campus, where she took a variety of courses in opera, educational policy and social sciences. Moreover, she joined Vino Veritas, the Sciences Po wine team, and hosted a wine tasting competition at Château Bollinger, a renowned champagne house. It is a great chance for her to meet people from all over the world, enriching her cultural and academic journey. Vennise KU (GCS) Sciences Po, France Vennise took three courses in France such as French Language, Comparative Politics, and the Economy of Wine and Champagne. The immersive French course was enjoyable, enabling her to apply new language skills in daily life. Studying politics during Trump and Macron’s era sparked engaging discussions, while the wine economy course provided unique insights into the Champagne’s region. Living independently in Reims taught her responsibility and enriched her life experiences. She also grew more con dent in French and cherished this memorable exchange. 11 OVERSEAS LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Nicole LAI (GCS) University of Copenhagen, Denmark Nicole ( rst right) con dently described her time in this fascinating Scandinavian city as one of her most incredible experiences. On campus, classes never felt rushed, and professors would encourage thoughtful group discussions for students to form critical opinions among diverse topics. Beyond the classroom, Copenhagen was lled with the laid-back vibe and “hygge” lifestyle. She spent weekends exploring local shops, visiting ea markets, and enjoying brunch at cozy cafes. The most priceless souvenir, aside from the amazing sights and cultural encounters, was the close friendships she formed with her fellow exchange students. LAM Man Kong (QSA) Utrecht University, Netherlands Studying at Utrecht University was an unforgettable opportunity for Man Kong. Upon his arrival in the Netherlands, he experienced the warmth of the local people, who are approachable and often greet him with a genuine smile. He made new friends and formed deep and close connections with them. He also enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere there, which made him feel truly seen and valued. This refreshing change from the fast-paced environment of Hong Kong has left him with a newfound gratitude for small and meaningful interactions that brighten each day. Katie LAM (QSA) The University of British Columbia, Canada This summer, Katie studied in Vancouver through a four-week academic program. It marked her rst time traveling outside of Asia, offering her a fresh perspective on classroom atmosphere, learning styles, and cultural environments. Alongside a packed and enriching course schedule, Katie explored numerous natural, cultural and modern landmarks across British Columbia. She visited Victoria, the capital of British Columbia known for its historical architecture, exploring stunning natural sites like Whistler and Squamish, and meeting many locals and tourists along the way. This unforgettable journey not only deepened her self-understanding but also fostered greater independence and resilience to failure. SHI Boqing (QSA) University of California, Los Angeles, United States Boqing (left) felt a mix of exhilaration and nerves when he rst arrived. He then overcame academic hurdles and homesickness with the support of his roommates and advisors. Immersed in a vibrant and diverse community, he engaged with classmates around the world and embraced new cultural perspectives that broadened his understanding of anthropology. Looking back, the positives — new friendships, intellectual growth, and the electric energy of such a lively place — outweighed all his struggles. He left LA with a suitcase full of books, a head full of ideas, and a sense that he had become braver than the person who had arrived. 12
13 Charisse LO (GCS) Charisse ( rst on the left) has been actively involved in voluntary activities since COVID, and she is honored to receive the Roy To Community Service Award and the Award of the Social Good Builder for the 2024-2025 academic year. She rmly believes in the power of community engagement and peer advocacy to drive positive change, bringing people together to create a better world. This year, Charisse participated in a service-learning trip to Vietnam, where she taught STEM and soft skills to underprivileged youth and conducted home visits, aiming to extend her impact beyond Hong Kong. Additionally, she is volunteering with Open Up, providing text-based emotional support to young people through counseling services to help them navigate life's challenges and negative emotions. Winky LEE (GCS) The 2024/25 academic year marked the third year of Winky’s inspiring journey with AIESEC, the world’s largest youth-run organization dedicated to developing leadership through overseas exchanges. During her rst two years, Winky ( rst on the right, front row) engaged with AIESEC at HKUST as part of the campus community. In 2024/25, she took on a leadership role by establishing a new AIESEC branch at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSU), representing AIESEC Hong Kong while collaborating remotely with peers in Mainland China. These experiences have been truly unique and valuable for Winky. The expansion at HSU required extensive communication with campus stakeholders and students, testing and deepening Winky’s passion for and understanding of AIESEC’s mission as she introduced it to a new audience. Meanwhile, working with peers from Mainland China provided her with a rewarding and enriching experience. The differences in working styles and communication served as valuable lessons, and she forged lasting friendships with like-minded friends. As Winky concludes her AIESEC journey, her experience stands as a powerful testament to the growth, connections, and leadership skills cultivated through youth empowerment opportunities. This extraordinary chapter has truly enriched her university life. YOUTH EMPOWERMENT EXPERIENCES
14 Marcus WONG (GCS) Marcus (third from the right) is thrilled to share his journey as a volunteer with St John Ambulance Brigade. Serving as an Of cer Cadet has been incredibly ful lling, allowing him to contribute to youth service and deliver essential rst aid support alongside his dedicated frontline colleagues. Leading a cadet unit for secondary students is just the beginning. Marcus and his teammates receive hands-on training with ambulance equipment, and some of them even have the chance to serve on an active ambulance. It’s a high-pressure environment where every moment counts, but the thrill of making a difference keeps him motivated. He has participated in fantastic events, such as activities at Kai Tak Sports Park and the upcoming National Games. Each experience reinforces the impact they can have on the community and the joy of uniting for a greater cause. While the volunteer work can be intense and exhausting, the most rewarding moments come from witnessing the smiles that his team creates and hearing heartfelt “thank you” from those they serve. Those moments inspire him to keep going. This journey is about passion, connection, and making a difference, and he wouldn’t trade it for anything. Sophie WONG (GCS) This February, Sophie ( rst on the right) participated in the Asian Youth Leaders Travel and Learning Camp at the National University of Singapore. She attended a series of insightful lectures on topics such as public health, AI x psychological development, and sustainable urban planning, while visiting the Public Utilities Board - Marina Barrage, Urban Redevelopment Authority, and other famous sites. Sophie also collaborated with youth leaders from Singapore, Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia and India to deliver a group presentation on drug distribution and poverty in underdeveloped countries. With their seamless teamwork, her team was awarded Team of the Year, and Sophie received the Outstanding Youth Leader Award for her individual contributions. One of her most cherished memories was a surprise birthday celebration organized by the camp hosts. Rayne CHAO (GCS) Rayne, a third-year student, had the opportunity to serve as an International United Nations (UN) Volunteer with UN Women in Bangkok. In this role, he was deeply involved in a multinational work environment focused on human resources, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He played a key role in supporting the Asia-Paci c Beijing+30 conference, where he connected with youth, civil society organizations, and delegates from various countries. Together, they worked to advance gender equality while addressing diverse and emerging challenges. Rayne also initiated the rst-ever learning journey in the regional of ce, engaging with leaders at the Beijing+30 conference who shared various perspectives on gender equality. This experience not only provided him with valuable hands-on work experience but also enriched his understanding of the gender movement. Following his time with UN Women, he became more attuned to gender issues within his own community.
Ashleigh MA (GCS) Ashleigh is pursuing a Master of International and Public Affairs at The University of Hong Kong. During her undergraduate studies in the Global China Studies program, she engaged deeply with the historical and contemporary developments of international and domestic political and socio-economic issues. The courses offered by the program enriched her understanding of China’s unique position in the global landscape and ignited her passion for independent research. FRESH GRADUATES’ UPDATES Bennett WONG (GCS) Bennett has accepted an offer to pursue a Master of Public Administration at the University College London, which builds on and continue his undergraduate nal year project, "Evaluating the Effectiveness of Government Policies on the Circular Economy Transition for Fashion Industries in Hong Kong." LIU Xuzhuoyan (GCS) Rebecca’s four years at HKUST have been incredibly rewarding, providing her with valuable knowledge and experiences for which she is deeply grateful. She is thrilled to share that she has received offers from two graduate programs: the Master of Science in Comparative Social Policy at the University of Oxford and the MPhil in Sociology (Political Economy) at the University of Cambridge. After careful consideration, Rebecca has chosen to continue her academic journey at Oxford. Nicole LAI (GCS) Nicole is pursuing a master's degree in International Organization and International Public Policy at Peking University. She has been awarded a graduate scholarship from The Hong Kong Jockey Club and The Institute of Philanthropy. 15
PENG Wanwen (GCS) Wanwen has received postgraduate offers from HKU, Columbia, UCL, and NTU, and has chosen to pursue a master’s degree in Museum Studies at HKU. Through the multidisciplinary training in the Global China Studies program, she developed her interest in museum artefacts and interactive exhibits. During her studies, Wanwen participated in the museum talent program and conducted individual research on museum visitors. Hailey CHOW (GCS) Four years of study at HKUST have fostered Hailey’s development into an individual equipped with critical thinking skills and a strong foundation of workplace knowledge. Hailey believes that her learning journey in the Global China Studies program has been immensely rewarding. She has successfully landed a position at the Sino Group as a management trainee. It is a two-year program designed to cultivate future management talent in the areas of sales, leasing, property management, and nance. She has chosen to focus on leasing as her primary area of interest. Jodie WANG (GCS) Jodie is thrilled to announce that she is currently a management trainee at ZIM (Zim Integrated Shipping Services Ltd). Throughout her rotations, she will explore the intricacies of global shipping and logistics, as well as honing her skills in strategic planning and nancial acumen. Her journey at GCS has equipped her with knowledge and an agile mindset to tackle challenges. 16
ALUMNI’S UPDATES Charity CHEUNG (GCS Class of 2017) As a graduate of the Global China Studies program, Charity greatly valued the diverse experiences that shaped her academic and personal growth. It was in the SOSC 3600 Public Policy course that she ignited her academic interest in this eld, inspiring her to pursue a master’s degree in Public Policy after graduation. While working part-time at Starbucks, Charity unexpectedly developed a passion for coffee-making, ultimately launching her own roasting business in Champagne, France. Building something new is often challenging, especially in a foreign country. However, driven by her passion and determination, Charity succeeded in winning several coffee competitions and represented France on the world stage. During her time in France, she also connected with other GCS exchange students, bringing back her good memories at HKUST. Currently, Charity has returned to Hong Kong to pursue her dreams. She believes that embracing every step with an open mind and heart is of utmost importance and wishes the best of luck to our SHSS community. CHAN Sze Yuen (QSA Class of 2022) This year marks Sze Yuen’s third year working at Lee Hysan Foundation, and he has been promoted to Project Of cer. He expresses that he has demonstrated signi cant professional growth, taking charge of projects independently, collaborating closely with grantee NGOs, social enterprises, and universities, and overseeing project implementation. Alongside his career growth, Sze Yuen is a keen traveller who has explored many cities across England, Scotland, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, and China in recent years. He is also excited to share that he has passed the JLPT N1 Test and recently completed his MSc in Digital and Social Media Marketing. 17
WANG Yiwei (QSA Class of 2023) Yiwei graduated from HKUST as a QSA student in 2023 and embarked on a new journey as a master’s student at the Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania, United States. Last December, she completed her master’s program in Education Technology and Applied Learning Science and began her professional career as a Learning Experience Designer at a technology company in Salt Lake City. This year, Yiwei embraced another signi cant milestone in her life by celebrating her wedding in Chengdu, China, after marrying her husband last August. SZE Chun Yu Bryan (GCS Class of 2024) Bryan is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Urban Design and International Planning at the University of Manchester. His long-term plan is to build a career in the UK, where he aims to contribute to the development of more inclusive and sustainable urban environments. Bryan's passion for living in the UK began during an exchange program at the University of Warwick during his undergraduate studies at HKUST. This experience allowed him to immerse himself in British academic and cultural life, which eventually inspired him to return to the UK to further his studies and professional journey. 18
Program Enquiries Global China Studies (JS5411) gcspgm@ust.hk Quantitative Social Analysis (JS5412) qsapgm@ust.hk Explore more on www.shss.hkust.edu.hk @hkust.shssug @hkust shss undergraduate Published by the School of Humanities and Social Science © 2025
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