How inspired was I after meeting HKU MBA Alumni?
31st Aug, the last day of the month, just became memorable as I decided to attend the HKU MBA Alumni panel discussion after work. We had amazing panelists sharing with us their MBA journey experience, who came from different batches. Joining us where:
From left to right
Anson Lee: Co-Founder, Evelele Technology
Samson Poon: Vice President, Private Banking, Credit Suisse
Lisa Sha: Head of Digital Innovation and Communications Operations at Fidelity International
Samantha Pei: Director at MUFG Bank, Ltd
Martin Newell: General Manager at Accolade Wines
Mindy Li: Senior Manager, Brand Marketing-Asia Pacific at Marriott International
Pakki Chan: Founder, Learn More Co-Op
We can learn so much when we listen to people’s experiences and journeys. Of course, we got some guidelines & tips regarding how to choose our electives, how to handle core subjects, be a good team player, and excel in projects. In addition, these were some key takeaways for me:
1. Listen and learn from each other.
2. Don’t try to fit in; be you; bring yourself to the table
3. Challenge yourself
4. Expand your interest and try new subjects
5. Commit to learning with a deliberate purpose.
6. Don’t be the smartest person in the room, be that person who leads the team and helps others to achieve.
7. If you are not learning new things, you stop doing important and valuable things.
8. Always have a growth mindset, keep learning, and unlearning.
9. Be open to possibilities
10. Take up challenging projects and engage in subjects that you would have no idea about.
11. Be curious and have fun on your way.
12. If you are feeling anxious, take time out for your mental health
13. Work hard and also play hard!
14. Find your passion and do what you love.
15. Never stop exploring
When asked what they would do differently if they have to do MBA all over again: — Most of them said they would take some time to get to know their classmates personally and engage more with their professors.
It was a valuable and insightful sharing session with a group of amazing alumni and I am grateful that I got to spend my evening with them. What is great about an alumni network is that you have people around you who not only can guide, share insights, but also make last long friendships with you.
I left the room after the session feeling so motivated and inspired by each one of them. They were a great example and I hope to have such alumni status after I graduate :)
