Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) has proudly nurtured a diverse community of over 150,000 students since its inception in 1989. These students come from different backgrounds, pursue different professions and possess diverse interests, but they all share a common bond of learning and growing at HKMU.

In this article, we invite you to explore the extraordinary journeys of two HKMUers, who have achieved remarkable accomplishments in their respective fields and made positive contributions to society. To explore more inspiring HKMU student and alumni stories, visit HKMU’s website.

Wong Long Hin

Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports and eSports Management
Local amateur American football team member
Dean’s List in 2021 and 2022

Wong Long Hin, currently a member of the local amateur American football team, is a Year 3 student pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports and eSports Management at Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU). One of Wong’s most memorable experiences was participating in a friendly match in Japan, where he faced an offensive player who had previously played in the NCAA Division I league in the United States. Despite the evident gap in their abilities, Wong may not have defeated the giant Goliath like David, but he gained invaluable experience from the game, further fueling his passion for the world of American football.

Sports and Learning

Wong discovered that his sports experience has benefited his academics. “One of the courses I am taking is “Athlete Development” which uses case studies from the NFL to analyse how different methods can motivate players to enhance their psychological qualities and performance. I felt a strong resonance when I read about these topics,” Wong explains. He further emphasises the unique positioning of the course, combining elements of both sports and esports, which are his areas of interest. Wong adds, “The course also includes overseas exchanges, where students get the opportunity to visit football clubs and attend classes at football academies in Spain or the United Kingdom, sparking my interest in the operational management of football clubs.”

Collaborative Learning

When it comes to his life as a student at HKMU, Wong describes a vibrant learning atmosphere, with students actively participating in class discussions. He particularly enjoys collaborating with his classmates on group research projects, leveraging the spirit of teamwork he’s developed through his American football training.

Looking ahead, Wong plans to continue balancing his studies, training, and competitions, savouring the enjoyment of American football and introducing it to his fellow students. After graduation, he aspires to join the disciplined forces and serve as a fire captain, utilising his leadership abilities to lead and guide teams while serving the community.

Saloni Anandpara

Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Intelligence & Analytics (graduated in 2020)
Member of A-Team Student Development Programme

Saloni Anandpara, along with her family members, had a background in science. However, she chose a different path and ventured into the field of business intelligence and analytics. In this domain, she nurtured her ambition and network, eventually establishing her own startup called MicroCent Limited. The company specializes in decentralized microcredit trading and has received accolades as an award-winning project in regional and international blockchain competitions. Additionally, Saloni’s passion for chess has propelled her to achieve the title of Woman Candidate Master, bestowed upon her by the International Chess Federation.

The first start-up

“I was looking for a bachelor’s degree which could allow me to pursue my interests in both business and technology,” Saloni said. At that time, the Bachelor of Business Intelligence and Analytics programme offered by HKMU covered several disciplines, including business, psychology and coding, which was right up her alley.

During her studies, she practised a lot of presentation and communication skills in class, which gave her the upper hand in all the case competitions she entered. After graduation, Saloni started her first start-up company with a team that was still studying at HKMU in 2020.

Spread your wings, dare to dream

Saloni values every opportunity to learn outside of the classroom, and she has been actively involved in competitions and networking events throughout her time at HKMU.

Competitions

Saloni said, “My university school life would not be so fruitful without joining various competitions, ranging from blockchain to chess. In a case competition, I met my friend who has later become my partner in our start-up company. Our business model, which was recognised by the judges of the “Greater Bay Area” and “International Blockchain Olympiad,” won the Best Fin-tech Award. We later applied for the HKSTP’s Incubation Programme and Cyberport Programme, and started bringing our idea to life. Our team has grown to 20 people, and I enjoy doing what I like – providing personal financial solutions, technology directions, and strategic planning.”

The scholarship Saloni had received from HKMU helped her achieve her goals as a chess player. She had represented Hong Kong and had participated in various tournaments, including the Asian Games, the World Junior Chess Championship, and the World Chess Olympiad. “When I was away for tournaments, the teachers had offered me assistance to keep my learning on track,” Saloni mentioned.

A-Team Student Development Programme

Saloni added, “Being in A-Team, I could make friends with like-minded peers, and most importantly, I could meet my mentor Dr Rocky TUNG, who guided me on the areas that I should focus on. In 2019, I took his advice and applied for an internship in Holiday-Inn Finance. I have become clearer since then on what I’m truly interested in – the technology aspect – data analysis, coding and financial strategies.”

Message to freshmen

“Be active and make friends who may also be your business partner in the future.”

We hope you enjoyed reading these HKMUer stories and learned more about the diverse and supportive community at Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU). HKMU initially established in 1989 by the Hong Kong SAR Government as the Open Learning Institute of Hong Kong, HKMU changed its name in 2021 to accurately reflect its close ties with the wider community, with a clear focus on serving the practical and social needs of Hong Kong and the region in its teaching and research. These days, the university houses seven schools offering over 160 academic programmes and seven institutes with millions in research funding.

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Kay Marlowe

Kay is a marketing assistant at China Admissions. A "third-culture kid" based in Thailand, she has had lifelong exposure to international communities and has worked with top global brands. Having studied abroad herself, she encourages young minds to invest in their self-development and foster an appreciation for new countries and cultures.