PolyU is a place for students to discover their interests and develop their strengths. Four years ago, when I joined the PolyU Education Info event, I had two burning questions: What could I gain? And what would I become?

I have gained much during the course of my studies. I have learned a great deal about chemistry – not only theoretical knowledge and practical lab skills, but also how to approach challenges in a logical way. Developing critical thinking skills has been important in other aspects of my life, too. During my work experience at McGill University in Canada, I made friends from other countries, and I communicated in English. I became independent.

Life at university is totally different from life at high school. Yes, you have to study hard, sometimes late into the night, because of the workload of assignments, tests, examinations and presentations; however, there is also much more freedom at university, so it is important to foster time management skills to balance your academic and social lives. In this way, you can fully enjoy all of the valuable experiences that the university has to offer.

The Chemical Technology programme includes a lot of practical lab work. This experience has helped me acquire the technical skills and preparation for my future path. Within the scope of the many hands-on opportunities provided by PolyU, I studied at the Georgia Institute of Technology (USA) and worked as an intern at Tokyo City University (Japan). These experiences helped me to become more independent and will certainly make me a more desirable candidate for future jobs.

Chemistry was my favourite subject at school, and majoring in it has deepened my appreciation for how chemical innovation drives advances that improve human well‑being. As a Chemistry Major, I learned that chemistry underpins many of the technologies shaping modern life. I aspire to become a professional chemist who can develop innovative pharmaceutical technologies and create sustainable, affordable medicines for underprivileged families. This goal motivates me to continue building the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society through science.

For now, I have chosen to pursue a higher degree. To gain more research experience in organic synthesis, I have joined Prof. Wing-yiu Yu’s research team as a Student Assistant. Working closely with the research students, I helped develop a research platform for compounds with significant medicinal uses. The guidance and inspiration I have received from Prof. Yu and the team have further deepened my appreciation for the power of chemistry and strengthened my commitment to advancing innovative synthetic research.

My time in the Chemical Technology programme at PolyU has been incredibly rewarding and has provided me with an excellent learning experience. The curriculum goes beyond teaching theoretical chemistry and practical laboratory skills; it also trains students to approach complex scientific challenges logically and confidently. Through lectures, laboratory sessions, projects, and discussions, I have developed strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which have been invaluable to both my academic journey and personal growth.

The programme also offers outstanding global learning opportunities. My exchange semester at the National University of Singapore (NUS) broadened my horizons and allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture and learning environment. This experience enriched my studies and helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident in unfamiliar settings.

While the transition to university requires independence and good time management, you are never alone at PolyU. The Department of Chemistry is exceptionally supportive and plays an important role in creating a positive and encouraging learning environment. The professors, staff, and peers are always approachable and ready to offer guidance whenever challenges arise. Their support has made my university experience both fulfilling and enjoyable.

By joining this programme, you gain not only a strong science education, but also a supportive community that helps you make the most of the valuable learning experiences PolyU provides.