OUHK graduates for 1999

October 1999, Vol 8, Issue 4

OUHK graduates for 1999

2,000-plus to receive award in December

Some 2,000 students will be conferred degrees at the OUHK's Eighth Congregation in December. About half of them have just finished their degree studies in the first semester of 1999. The following six students have some interesting stories to tell:

Chan Shuk-fong, who works at the Canadian Consulate General and is responsible for approving visa applications, enrolled at the OUHK in 1995. Successful completion of two foundation courses aroused her interest in study. During that time, she had an opportunity to get promotion on condition that she could obtain a degree. She was therefore determined to get a degree in Social Sciences within four years. Despite immense pressure at work and in study, Ms Chan had to look after her two children as a single parent. She commended the OUHK's flexible distance learning and credit system, which allowed her to be trained in analytical and time management skills. The low-interest loans granted by the OUHK have alleviated some of her financial burdens.

Ho Kwok-keung, an Assistant Technical Manager in a chemical company, joined the OUHK in 1990 with his wife to pursue a BBA degree. His wife will also graduate this year. Mr Ho's job requires him to travel between Guangdong and Hong Kong frequently. Sometimes he would rush to the tutorials with his luggage. According to him, pursuing degree study at the OUHK requires strong self-discipline and motivation. From his recent experience of restructuring in his company, he feels that university education has not only enlightened him but also helped his career a lot.

Ho Siu-ling, child education worker, finished an honours degree in Chinese Arts and Humanities in seven years. Now a part-time instructor for the Hong Kong Institute of Education and the School of Continuing Education of a local university, Ms Ho said her degree study had not only enriched her knowledge and trained her in logical thinking, but had also been useful to her career development. Her husband, sons and friends were very supportive of her study. They helped her borrow books and make photocopies when one of her legs was injured at work and she had to undergo three operations and physiotherapy for six months.

Lee Kwok-wah, an administrator in a social service organization, joined the OUHK's BBA programme in 1991. During his study, his wife gave birth to two daughters and he changed jobs three times. Further study in the traditional way would have posed problems for him because he has some physical disabilities. Distance learning has provided him with an opportunity to learn and upgrade himself without these problems. Mr Lee has received bursary assistance during his study.

Lui Koon-wai, a social worker in a voluntary organization, started his degree study in Western Arts and Humanities out of pure interest. The death of his beloved mother and changes at the workplace at one point discouraged him from continuing his study. Nonetheless, he finished his degree with good grades and was awarded a scholarship and several outstanding student prizes. He praised tertiary education for opening his eyes and broadening his horizons.

Yuen Wai-keung, Chief Accountant of a laundry service company, finished his MBA degree within three years. He lives in Tuen Mun and it takes him over 2.5 hours to travel to the University for tutorials. Nevertheless, to him, the three years of hard work have been absolutely worthwhile since the programme of study is practical and relevant to today's business environment. Moreover, through studying at the OUHK, his personal network has been strengthened and his problem-solving skills have improved. He extends thanks to both his wife and his employer for their unreserved support.