Uncovering Forgotten Histories:
Yuk Hei’s Journey of Curiosity, Courage and Connection
In a world where academic success is often measured by grades and achievements, Yuk Hei, Dean’s List awardee of the Faculty of Arts, offers a refreshing perspective—one rooted in curiosity, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of meaning. Her story is about living, uncovering, and using knowledge to connect with the world. Yuk Hei’s journey is a powerful reminder that excellence begins with asking the right questions and daring to explore the unknown.
Value That Guide the Journey
At New Asia College, Yuk Hei found inspiration in the college motto: “Cheng (Sincerity)” and “Ming (Intelligence).” These values became her compass, reminding her to engage with others genuinely and pursue knowledge with depth and integrity. “Academic success isn’t about transcripts,” she explains. “It’s about discovering the joy of learning and maintaining a mindset of lifelong curiosity.”
Whenever Yuk Hei has faced moments of doubt and difficulty, she reframes the challenge: “What kind of growth experience will I gain if I push through?” This mindset has helped her tackle everything from complex papers to physical education tests. When obstacles feel insurmountable, she turns to trusted friends, professionals, or even writes letters to her future self. While these strategies may not solve the problem directly, they help her find the courage to keep going.
Lessons for Every Student
Yuk Hei tailors her study style to the demands of each course. For exam-heavy subjects, she collaborates with peers—sharing notes, organizing group studies, and motivating one another. But when it comes to term papers, she values solitude, allowing space for deep thought and focused research. “Group reports are a joy. We exchange ideas, challenge each other, and create a vibrant learning atmosphere.”
Yuk Hei’s calendar is her academic compass. As soon as deadlines are announced, she logs them into her phone and estimates the time needed for each task. She schedules solo study sessions and group meetings. “A great final paper isn’t written in a week. It’s built over time,” she emphasises.” Her final paper strategy is a masterclass in long-term planning. After midterms, she drafts an outline and sticks to a weekly schedule, avoiding the last-minute panic.
At the start of each academic year, Yuk Hei sets clear goals. Her weekly schedule includes study time, tutoring sessions, extracurriculars, and social activities. She avoids daily to-do lists, which she finds stressful, and instead plans her week every Sunday. Her golden rule? “Prioritise wisely and learn to multitask when needed.” When deadlines pile up, she tackles the most urgent task first while mentally preparing for the next. It’s a system that keeps her calm and productive.
Wisdom for Fellow Junior Students
Yuk Hei’s advice to juniors is heartfelt and practical:
- Find a study environment that suits you.
- Know your interests and weaknesses.
- Stay humble and seek help when needed.
