News & Stories

Life’s hardships come much early for HKUST’s third-year Data Science and Technology (DSCT) student Kevin LEUNG, who, despite coming from an underprivileged background, has not sold himself short. Recognized by numerous scholarships at HKUST, Kevin stands out from his fellows not only with his excellent grades, entrepreneurship spirit, and a caring heart for others, but, above all, a zest to turn adversity into opportunity. A dashing runnerRaised in a single-parent family, he has had a lot to shoulder since his youth. “I have helped with household chores since primary grade one, in addition to taking care of my ill father’s daily life,” says Kevin, whose father is diagnosed with kidney failure and is unable to work due to his health condition.

From a terminal heart failure patient to a university student, mentor, and public speaker, HKUST’s third-year business management student Krishna JHANGIANI (KJ) has hardly had a conventional study journey. Recently recognized by the Dean of Students’ Office for his community service, KJ is the embodiment of resilience, and determined to innovate to give himself and others a new lease of life. “It was like living in a bubble for 16 years and the bubble just popped,” KJ describes his near-death experience. From the massive smile that he is wearing, you would struggle to believe what he has been through.

Dr. Sabrina Lin, the Vice-President for Institutional Advancement shared her thoughts and experiences on making choices in personal and professional life.