As a final-year student majoring in Accounting and Finance at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, I can confidently say that my university journey has been both transformative and inspiring. The once-in-a-lifetime exchange will be the most impactful experience that you will have. My exchange semester was in Norway, where I embraced a new culture, broadened my worldview, and gained a global perspective on finance and business. It taught me independence, adaptability, and the importance of cross-cultural communication – skills that will stay with me for life. To those awaiting your admission results: I wish you all the best on this exciting journey, and I hope you will be part of our vibrant AF community, where opportunities to grow and explore are truly limitless.

Studying Accountancy at PolyU provided me with invaluable resources and opportunities that enabled me to achieve my full potential.  Throughout my undergraduate studies, I gained hands-on experience through internships in different industries, including accounting, banking, and finance. The internships allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. I also took on the role of president at AF Tech Lab, where I improved my communication and managerial skills through collaborating with peers and external parties on hosting fintech-related events. These experiences were further supplemented by several overseas exchanges to Canada, France, Korea, and Mainland China.  The opportunities to study in an international environment have broadened my global perspective and deepened my understanding of international business practices.

Each opportunity, whether an internship, leadership position, or exchange programme, helped me grow both professionally and personally. The experience at AF has shaped my career aspirations and prepared me for future challenges. AF's supportive environment and guidance from professors played a crucial role in my development, equipping me with the skills and confidence to pursue my goals.

Looking back at my time at university, I would describe it as challenging yet rewarding. It was not easy to strike a balance between studying and socialising. But PolyU equips students to excel in every way.

Aside from a world-class education, PolyU has given me the opportunities and resources to explore my interests and learn proactively. Working as an assurance intern for the ‘Big 4’ accounting firms opened my eyes to how the concepts of accounting can be applied in a real-world context, and how I might use the knowledge and skills gained in my future career.

PolyU shapes students into well-rounded individuals by unleashing their potential and encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones. During my time at PolyU I participated in case competitions, volunteer services and student societies, all of which helped developed my communication, leadership and social skills.

Now, I feel well prepared for what lies ahead.

When I reflect on my four years of university study, I feel very grateful for the fantastic springboard that PolyU provided me. This is the place where I learnt, grew and made huge progress in both my academic and personal development.

Information-rich lectures, workshops and seminars equipped me with essential academic knowledge. Group projects taught me how to present my ideas clearly and confidently and how to cooperate with others. They made me realise the importance of teamwork and collaboration. The huge variety of student associations and hall activities gave me numerous opportunities to make friends with international students and expose me to the cultures of the world.

I stepped out of my comfort zone and accomplished things I didn't expect. On top of all that, PolyU enlightened me to know more about the world, not only through textbooks, but also through hands-on experiences.