Feature Stories

“It's always been my goal to find a university that can guide me in shaping my career.”

Charlene (GBUS & FINA, Class of 2027) from Indonesia found that guiding light at HKUST Business School. As the global labor market undergoes unprecedented transformation due to rapid technological advancement and evolving public policies, the next generation of professionals needs guidance and determination to stay ahead and navigate these changes. Inspired by her older brother, who thrived during his studies at HKUST and launched a successful career after graduating in 2023, Charlene felt encouraged to explore her own potential and seize future career opportunities with the solid foundation HKUST provides.

A Global View of the Business World

Charlene appreciates the flexible study paths at HKUST Business School, which allows her to align her academic pursuits with her career goals. Initially admitted through school-based admissions with a full tuition scholarship, she explored a broad-based curriculum before joining the Major Selection Exercise to apply for the BBA in Global Business program, where she discovered her passion for case studies and problem-solving. Recognizing Hong Kong’s reputation as a major financial hub in Asia, Charlene decided to pursue a second major in Finance, believing it would further position her for internships that could pave the way for a future career aligned with her interests.

Beyond Hong Kong’s international landscape, Charlene also extended her global exposure by joining the HKUST Business School Exchange Program to study at Seoul National University in South Korea, where she found HKUST’s support reaches far beyond the Clear Water Bay campus. “I expressed my worries about travelling to a new country alone for a semester, and the staff soon connected me with a senior going to the same place. I appreciated how the school cares about my concerns, which really eased my transition,” she reflects.

Another memorable experience was the annual week-long Global Business study trip, where students gain exposure to different careers and business landscapes in other countries. With the support of the HKSAR Scholarship Fund - Reaching Out Award, Charlene joined the trip to Singapore. “As part of the task force team, we created the itinerary for the whole trip. We visited their local institutions, like the National University of Singapore, banks and companies in the financial sector. This experience broadened my understanding of working in Singapore and opened new possibilities for my future.”

A Wealth of Well-Rounded Skills and Career Resources

Charlene actively utilizes HKUST’s extensive career resources, which play a significant role in her academic journey. She frequently checks the Career Centre’s Job Board for internships and job openings both locally and globally. Attending the bi-annual Career Mosaic, where leading companies from diverse industries come to campus to promote their job and internship openings, has further enhanced her career exploration. “These experiences have made me feel well-supported and excited about what lies ahead!”

Aside from career opportunities, Charlene engages in coursework that includes practical projects with real-life companies. Together with the vibrant HKUST alumni network, she can gain insider career insights and refine her career direction. “When I talk to someone in banking or consulting, they always share the real side of the work. I gain more insights on my suitability for different roles and have a better direction on what kind of career I would like to pursue,” she explains. Her participation in SBMT2100, a course that allows students to collaborate with NGOs on community service projects, has allowed her to apply business concepts in real-world settings. “As an international student, it’s fascinating to see how NGOs operate in Hong Kong and how we can apply the theories we’ve learned in creative ways to propose practical solutions.” With this blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, she is well-prepared to jumpstart her future career across various sectors.

Exploration Beyond the Classroom

Charlene’s life in Hong Kong is rich with diverse experiences that enhance her journey as an international student. From hiking scenic trails to crocheting bags and teaching coding to local children, she embraces the vibrant culture around her. To delve deeper into her interest in consulting, she participates in various case competitions, like those hosted by JPMorgan and KPMG, with friends from her cohort.

Throughout this enriching and challenging journey, Charlene values the collaborative atmosphere at HKUST, where talented students from all around the world are well-versed in balancing academic and career pursuits. “Everyone is very hardworking and motivating, which inspires me to study harder. When I'm around my friends, we not only talk about academics but also brainstorm career paths and analyze the Hong Kong job market together.” She also appreciates the incredible support among her professors and advisors. “I feel that they truly care about my future. If I need to make a big decision, I can ask them for detailed advice.”

These vibrant experiences at HKUST have fostered significant personal growth for Charlene, leading her to become a Student Ambassador for both the University and the Business School. She often returns to Indonesia to share her journey and insights during admissions activities. “My high school sometimes reaches out for sharing sessions, and I’m happy to share my experience with juniors and their parents. Some parents who have attended these sessions over the years have remarked on how much I’ve grown since the last time they saw me.”

Future-Proofed in a Dynamic Global Landscape

As she enters her third year, Charlene emphasizes the importance of adapting to changes. "The biggest takeaway from my time at HKUST is understanding the significance of preparing for the future.” She values the university’s strong career support and resources that provide a competitive edge for students transitioning to life beyond graduation. Well-informed by all the career resources at HKUST, Charlene plans to start her career in Hong Kong before returning to her home country to launch her own business, with a vision of making a meaningful impact across the sector she joins.

Reflecting on her journey, Charlene acknowledges that studying in a challenging academic environment at HKUST has pushed her intellectual growth and resilience in the face of obstacles. “Studying at HKUST is not just about earning a degree; it's about personal transformation. For prospective students, this is a chance to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges that will shape a better future.”

>>Join Charlene at HKUST Business School and ignite your own journey towards a successful career!<<

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