William Yam

Our fourth featured alum is William Yam, Class of 2016. Below, he shares his college life experience at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

“I currently study at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and major in Physics and Mathematics. “

What are you doing now at university?

“Studying, of course. Other than that, I participate in some extracurriculars, such as student mentoring, a cappella, and community service. I’m also doing some undergraduate research related to statistical physics and particle physics. I think university life is very fruitful, and there are many opportunities to join activities alongside academics.”

Are you enjoying college life so far? Why or why not? What do you like best about the university?

“I am definitely enjoying college life so far. Studying at HKUST has been an exciting experience. I got to make new friends, learn new things, and develop new interests. It is not to say that university is without challenges, but the inevitable hardship perhaps makes this journey all the more unforgettable. The best part about university is the amount of freedom it entails. In university, you can choose the courses to take, join a variety of activities, and just do your own thing. You can pretty much do everything at your own pace, and hopefully get to do some things that you enjoy. It’s quite exhilarating, really, most of the time.”

What’s your least favorite part about university?

“Maybe a little ironically, the most difficult part about university might be the amount of freedom there is. It’s a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of responsibility. Fool around too much, and the time just wastes away. No one’s there to stop you. In general. I think it is important to have a clear direction and strong motivation, so as to get a fulfilling university experience. I like the university I’m going to now. I guess it’s also kind of late to change anyway. But in all honesty, Hong Kong is a vibrant city and HKUST has a beautiful campus. There are so many opportunities provided by the university and the city to explore. To dwell on regret may just be counterproductive.”

How is university similar/different than what you thought?

“It’s been a little while since I graduated, so I don’t quite recall my expectations for university. I think it is similar in that university feels a lot bigger than high school, in terms of people and in terms of opportunities. It is different in that I didn’t really expect to focus so deeply into one field of study; for me, that is physics and mathematics. I think the biggest difference between high school and college is the amount of control. Sure there are guidelines on academics and behavior in university, but it’s more like for reference only. In some ways, I suppose it will work to prepare us for society. It is kind of delightful, but also kind of frightening.”

How did the international school experience help or make it more difficult for you to blend in? Did you have any trouble adapting to the new environment?

“Well it took time to adapt to the new environment, but I wouldn’t say it was trouble. I had to get used to the new geography, make new friends, and understand the system at HKUST. It’s quite fun to have a change once in a while. I think I adapted well enough, and now have evolved into a full university student.”

If you are, or know, an AISG alum who you think we should feature here, please contact Amanda D. and Antonette L. (07cavalcantaa@aisgz.org / 07liaoa@aisgz.org).