Samuel Yip (Class of 2023)
Samuel was attracted to this programme because it was the only one offering a bachelor's degree in finance, and he was particularly captivated by the networking possibilities facilitated by Professor Wong. During his initial year at university, Samuel actively participated in coffee chats, engaging with industry professionals ranging from the mid-level to senior ranks. These interactive discussions provided him with a deeper understanding of their professional journeys and guidance on how to navigate his path as an AMPB student. He found these engaging sessions more enriching than the one-directional communication typical of seminars. Networking with experienced individuals offered him insights that went beyond the information available on company websites, proving invaluable during job interviews. His most influential encounter was with a professional from a hedge fund company, which broadened his understanding of the field.
Besides coffee chats, Samuel also cherishes the ongoing conversations with Professor Wong throughout his time at the university. Professor Wong's mentorship extended beyond academic guidance; he provided Samuel with opportunities to develop various soft skills, such as presentation abilities, which he practised by participating in JUPAS admission talks of HKU and walked through high school students on the highlights of AMPB programme as a class representative, an opportunity given by Prof. Wong. One of Prof. Wong's consistent pieces of advice was the importance of being proactive. He emphasised that unlike childhood, where others often dictate our actions, university life presents the freedom to chart our own paths and careers, requiring self-motivation and discipline.
The most valuable skill Samuel developed during his studies was interpersonal communication. The coffee chats not only allowed him to engage in conversation but also to connect on a personal level, maintain relationships, and learn from shared experiences. He also stressed the importance of humility and open-mindedness, believing that recognizing one's shortcomings is crucial for personal growth. Samuel's parting advice for others is to embrace experiential learning. Real-life experiences often provide lessons that cannot be replicated in a classroom setting. He encourages a constant sense of curiosity, challenging the status quo and not accepting everything as facts. Additionally, he suggests taking the initiative to network, as opportunities often arise from a combination of effort and chance, and it is essential to actively seek them out.