My name is Hu Jiayi. I am from Shenzhen, Guangdong, and enrolled at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong in 2023. I am currently a Year 3 student majoring in Cultural and Creative Industries.

As the Gaokao approached, I, like most candidates, was under great pressure and anxiety during the preparation period. As a media student, I had not studied systematically on campus for a long time and was unfamiliar with the school’s examination pace and class arrangements. As a result, I once felt confused and even helpless.

When I first learned about the programme “Cultural and Creative Industries,” I found it highly aligned with my future plans and was immediately attracted by the campus environment. The University is located next to the Tate’s Cairn Tunnel, and my mother once described it as having a scholarly atmosphere similar to the “academies” in Chinese Mainland — a place suitable for calming the mind and focusing on learning. Perhaps this was my connection with The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, and eventually I was able to study here as I had hoped.

During my studies, whenever I encountered difficulties, teachers patiently provided guidance. When I missed classes due to personal reasons, they proactively invited me to their offices for make-up lessons to help me catch up with the progress. They always prioritised encouragement, respected the effort every student put in, and regardless of results, they would first affirm our efforts and then guide us on how to improve. They never easily dismissed us or undermined our confidence.

In addition, I joined the volunteer team of my residential college, which allowed me to gain deeper insights into the situations of different underprivileged groups in society, such as left-behind elderly people, the hearing-impaired, and elderly individuals living alone. This experience gave me opportunities to lend a helping hand and give back to society within my capabilities.

Every year, I participate in the University’s High Table Dinner, which adds a strong sense of ceremony to campus life. Interacting with classmates and teachers during the dinner helped narrow the distance between us. It also allowed me to progress from being hesitant to speak at first to being able to initiate conversations confidently. Each participation brings me a great sense of fulfilment and helps me build confidence and lasting memories.

On campus, I am also able to take up part-time jobs to accumulate practical experience and make friends from different countries. At the same time, the University sets an upper limit on weekly working hours, enabling us to balance academics and work while gradually developing independence and self-management skills.
The University has also organised Talent Show events, during which I sang on stage and immersed myself in performing for a moment, receiving much encouragement and applause. I am grateful to the University for providing such a platform and opportunities, allowing me to bravely showcase myself.

Overall, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong is an institution full of humanistic care. I truly cherish my time at HSUHK — receiving support in my studies, broadening my horizons in life, and gradually growing through various activities and attempts. I believe studying at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong is a very worthwhile choice.