Alicia Destiny

I was timid and just a tad excited as a freshman stepping foot in Hong Kong. This was a world-renowned institute known for its intensity, and I wondered how I would balance demanding studies with a worthwhile life off-campus. I was greeted by brilliant minds left and right—students who made complex concepts appear so effortless; I often felt like I could never compete with how intelligent my peers were.

However, interacting with various people from diverse walks of life eventually exposed me to a myriad of perspectives that enriched my mindset in many ways. I learned that being in engineering is not all about building bridges and machines; it's about building lifelong relationships with friends and faculty. Many nights of studying were accompanied by shared meals and meaningful conversations. This balance between study and leisure has become a cornerstone of my journey thus far.

One thing I really like about HKUST is the flexibility it offers. The elective system allowed me to explore other engineering streams, enabling me to verify that the path I have taken is, in fact, the right one for me. Even at this moment, as I delve deeper into the study of chemical engineering, HKUST offers different pathways for my future—whether that involves delving into industry, pursuing research, or following a teaching path.

Although I cannot be certain where my path in life will lead me, I believe the skills and mindset I am developing here at HKUST will guide me through whatever twists and turns lie ahead. If you have any questions about HKUST, engineering school, or just want to have a chat, feel free to reach out! I'd love to share my experiences. :)