The MSc ISTL programme gave me not only in-depth insights into maritime and transport logistics, but also many career development opportunities. The faculty comprises knowledgeable professors and industry leaders. They and their support teams spared no effort to pass on their knowledge to students even during the difficult pandemic period. The extensive alumni networks gather many outstanding senior students, and were places where we were able to obtain career advice and recruitment information. By participating in seminars and forums organised by LMS, we were able to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in shipping, aviation, transport, and logistics, while also cultivating our business sense. Understanding what employers need helped us prepare in advance for future work.

As well as practical knowledge and job opportunities, what impressed me most was the inclusiveness of our programme. My classmates were from a variety of backgrounds: some had extensive experience in logistics-related industries while others were newcomers. The well-designed curriculum offered a lot of flexibility: on the one hand, advanced knowledge; on the other hand, easy-to-understand theory and cornerstone knowledge to meet the needs of all programme participants.

I’m really grateful to have had the opportunity to study this programme, which is taught by distinguished and enthusiastic teaching staff. While teaching staff shared their experience with us, at the same time we were encouraged to critically think about a range of industry topics through group discussion, and by combining academic knowledge with industry practice via simulations and projects. These teaching and learning activities helped me develop my analytical thinking and gain new market insights. I also appreciated the strong bonds that developed during my postgraduate study, both with teachers and with classmates from diverse backgrounds. We often exchanged market updates and news about the latest seminars and career opportunities. The programme has transformed me into a more competent maritime and logistics practitioner, and has given me a boost to climb the corporate ladder with my current employer, who acknowledges the quality education offered by the PolyU Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies.

I was working in the shipping industry before studying this master’s programme, but only in the IT sector. I was just developing and maintaining different systems for a shipping company. But in that position, I developed an interest in the shipping industry. That was when I found the MSc in International Shipping and Transport Logistics and started to study, aiming to enrich my knowledge about the shipping industry.

The programme provided me with specialist knowledge in international shipping and logistics management. I acquired a wide range of knowledge of maritime transport and logistics within a broad framework of international transport and trade. This knowledge can be a significant benefit to my career. For example, by knowing more about the shipping process, I can design more creative and intelligent systems and create more value for my company.

Because the programme is supported by the Hong Kong Maritime and Logistics Scholarship, my financial concerns about studying on the programme were significantly eased.

The MSc ISTL programme at PolyU gave me a bird's-eye view of international logistics and operations. This knowledge helped me understand the essence of profitability in the logistics industry, and enabled me to investigate the effects of supply-chain disruptions. It also helped me understand the traditional nature of the shipping industry and, by reading research papers authored by the department's professors, learn about efforts to develop and modernise it.

Other than the academic knowledge, the programme offered me self-development opportunities through mentorship. Throughout my studies, I had the chance to work closely and learn from several professors, who were close mentors. The background of these professors in the logistics and shipping industry helped me gain a practical perspective.

I think that the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies is one of PolyU’s most efficient and helpful departments. They were very responsive, helping me arrange my visa and documents, and also helping me with other urgent requests.

The department also values its students. For example, I have been called as a student representative to several high level Departmental Advisory Meetings. My opinions were warmly welcomed and appreciated.

All in all, my journey has been very fruitful. I’m glad that I chose this programme for my master’s degree.