APSS outstanding student-athletes exchange ideas on their colourful university life
To connect with our undergraduate students, several student-athletes were invited to share their experiences and reflections on sportsmanship and university life with Prof. Eric CHUI, Professor and Head of APSS, Dr Kong YAM, Dr Rita CHEUNG, Dr Raymond TAM and Dr Yanto CHANDRA on 23 June 2022.
Seven APSS student-athletes, who were encouraged to exchange ideas on how to achieve optimum performance in both the classroom and the field of play, are:
CHAN Ching Him, Matthew (SPE year 2) – Soccer
CHAN Yik Chung, Philip (SPE year 3) – Karatedo
LAM Chun Ngai Sunny (SW year 4) –Taekwondo
NG Wai Lam, Richard (SW year 1) – Handball
NG Yuen Ying, Kitty (SW year 1) – Korfball
TANG In Chim, James (SPE year 1) – Soccer
SO Cheuk Lam, Theodora (SW year 3) – Indoor Cycling
The student-athletes began the conversation by sharing ways to maintain being race-fit amid the pandemic, followed by a casual discussion on learning experiences and challenges. The importance of self-discipline was emphasised to maintain a good balance between study and sports.
Matthew CHAN said: “To balance between soccer and academic study, good time management is absolutely important. Early in the morning I need to practise for several hours and then follow it up with a nap. In the afternoon, I attend lectures and seminars ….”
They appreciated APSS for providing them with an opportunity to pursue their undergraduate degree in an area of their passion, and to participate in various social and educational activities that promoted better communication between students and faculty staff. Both Richard NG and Philip CHAN expressed their gratitude to PolyU for covering their medical expenses and offering physiotherapy treatment for injuries.
Richard NG said: “I’m very pleased with my social work studies here, and am very much looking forward to having my first social work field placement. … I’m also indebted to the physiotherapist from PolyU for helping me to recover from my sports injuries.”
Prof. Eric CHUI concluded, “APSS aims to nurture leaders in human services with compassion and a heart to serve the underprivileged and the vulnerable. It requires not only the cultivation of skills, but also best practices and the right attitude. Active interactions with students are crucial for preparing them to be reflective and competent practitioners in response to evolving practices and policy contexts. Young people, including our APSS students, are encouraged to give constructive feedback on programmes and job placements. This would be useful for making improvements to the learning experience and teaching effectiveness, which ultimately reinforces the competitiveness of APSS programmes among other universities.”
More sharing events will be held from time to time to enhance interactions between students and faculty staff.
