Trained to learn

The Alumna

Although born and raised in Hong Kong, Salvina Siu lived and studied in the United States for more than 10 years. She started her career in information technology but switched to outdoor education when she returned to Hong Kong in 2002. Siu graduated from the University of Hong Kong (HKU) with an MBA in 2011. She has developed her career in training and has become involved in the learning and development profession.

What prompted you to pursue an MBA?

I actually started studying for an MBA when I lived in the US, but I never completed it due to a change in my employment status. Completing my MBA is a personal goal I established 10 years ago.

How did you balance the demands of your job and your studies?

I set my priorities, stayed focused, affirmed my commitment and utilised teamwork. In addition, I also exercised leadership.

What were the major challenges?

One was squeezing in the time to exercise, staying healthy - and avoiding junk food!

During your studies, what kind of support did you get?

I have to thank my family for bearing with me when I met my MBA teammates more frequently than having family dinners.

I am also grateful to my office colleagues for their support when I needed to leave work on time for school and team meetings. I must also thank my classmates for sharing their expertise and their willingness to take on extra work to back each other up.

How did you expect your MBA to help you with your life or career?

Needless to say, all the technical and academic knowledge we learned in our courses has broadened our horizons, and most can be applied in our daily work.

What's the biggest personal impact of your MBA? What are your plans?

I have adopted a more analytical approach, and I now think more strategically, creating business plans for my projects, for instance. I would like to be an entrepreneur, providing innovative learning and development solutions embracing the future work mode and emerging workforce.