Simay Yuksel
Science Master Class (Major in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology)
HKU Scholarship for Future Leaders Recipient
“As a child, I always tried to understand the world around me. This innate curiosity led me to discover my passion for biology and to obtaining a patent for an AI model for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease during high school.
Now, as an undergraduate student aiming to pursue a research-oriented career in molecular biology, receiving the Scholarship for Future Leaders has shown me what is possible when passion meets opportunity, and I am grateful for the invaluable resources that HKU has provided to help me realise my dream.
Under the Young Scientist Scheme, I had the chance to have an in-person conversation with the 2021 Nobel Prize winner Prof. Benjamin List, just a month after arriving at HKU. This summer, with the Faculty of Science’s Summer Research Fellowship, I will be working on two research projects guided by HKU professors: one on ovarian cancer, and another on stem cell technology for ALS disease. I can hardly imagine the unique opportunities ahead as an SMC student!”
Kyle Hui
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Meet Kyle, a fifth-year MBBS student who, with scholarship support, realized his dream of studying in the US by pursuing a Master of Science in Bioethics at Harvard University. Upon returning to Hong Kong, he put his experiences gained in the US to use by interning at a non-profit medical humanitarian aid organization, where he contributed to a project writing a code of ethics. Kyle shared with us how his study abroad experience has positively impacted both his career and personal development.
“The scholarship provided by HKU allowed me to have a rich and multifaceted learning experience in the US. I met classmates from various nationalities and age groups. Collaborating with them on group projects exposed me to different cultures as well as ways of thinking. These experiences have honed my communication skills and will be beneficial to my future career in medicine as I tend to patients from different backgrounds. Outside of class, I joined the Harvard table tennis team and represented the university in state-wide competitions, winning several awards. I also had the opportunity to travel to Mexico and Europe with my classmates during the holidays, which further broadened my horizons.”
Enoch Kang
Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science
“The University of Hong Kong has provided me with numerous academic and professional development opportunities, particularly in the educational technology (Edtech) sector, a field I am deeply passionate about.
I worked as a part-time research assistant at HKU’s virtual reality (VR) laboratory during my first two years of study. This experience allowed me to meet many like-minded friends. Together with them, I initiated a project last summer at HKU’s makerspace – Tam Wing Fan Innovation Wing – focusing on creating educational materials (Matchbox, FireWorks Studios) using recycled keyboards.
Our project received strong support from the university, and we were given the opportunity to represent HKU at ISAM2024, an international conference held at the University of Sheffield.
Now, as a third-year student, I am collaborating with local NGOs, businesses, and schools in Hong Kong to expand our project and prepare for my summer internship as well as final-year thesis. My learning experiences here have significantly contributed to my growth both professionally and academically, and I am confident that that you will have the same enriching experiences here at HKU!”