Alumni Profiles

Looking back, HKUST MScECON was an important step in shaping my decision to pursue a PhD in Economics. I did not major in economics as an undergraduate, so I initially had a great deal to learn. What made a real difference was the combination of a rigorous curriculum and highly supportive professors, which gradually helped me build confidence and develop a genuine interest in economic research. Whenever I became interested in a particular research question, I could usually find a faculty member whose work was related to it and who was willing to discuss it with me. I also greatly valued the opportunity to take PhD-level courses and join the Research Preparation Concentration. These experiences prepared me well for PhD applications and helped me develop research skills that I still use today as a PhD student.

With the goal of pursuing an academic career in economics, I found HKUST’s MScECON program exceptionally rewarding. Through the Research Preparation Concentration, I developed my project paper under the supervision of Professor Junlong Feng and benefited greatly from his rigorous guidance, systematic training and warm encouragement. The department’s seminars exposed me to cutting-edge research, while the interaction with supportive faculties allowed me to receive thoughtful advice. The flexible curriculum enabled me to take PhD-level economics courses as well as courses outside the department, broadening my perspective on interdisciplinary research. In addition, I was honored to receive the Baden-Württemberg-STIPENDIUM, which supported my exchange at the University of Mannheim. This experience enriched my academic journey with distinct cultural insights and research perspectives. As I prepare to begin my PhD in Economics at HKUST in September 2026, I am grateful for the program’s flexibility, inspiring faculty, research environment, exchange opportunities, and dedicated support from the program office.

The HKUST MScECON program provided me with rigorous training in economics and valuable research experience through the Research Preparation Concentration (RPC). This concentration involves writing a dissertation under the guidance of a world-class faculty member which allows me to understand how academic research is conducted and to develop essential research skills for further studies. The program also offers flexibility to take PhD-level courses to encourage self-initiative in shaping one’s academic path. Through this experience, I gained doctoral-level training and hands-on research exposure, which prepared me well for PhD applications. I particularly benefited from working closely with my advisor, Professor Yuk-fai Fong, whose guidance helped me develop my first working paper. With diverse courses and a supportive environment, MScECON program greatly shaped my academic journey. I will begin my PhD in Economics at the National University of Singapore this August, and I am confident that the skills and experience I gained at HKUST will support my future success.