Talent, persistence and compassion rewarded - meet the Link University Scholarship awardees
Success takes many forms, and each person shines in their own way. This year's Lingnan recipients of the Link University Scholarship exemplify this diversity: a tenacious dancer whose dedication sets her apart, an avid learner who has embraced English as a lifelong pursuit, and a compassionate student committed to serving both community and society at large.
Listen to what they have to say about receiving the awards.
The spirit of never giving up — Chan Lok-yee (Chinese, Year 1)
Lok-yee describes herself as "a person of resilience, who never easily gives up on anything." She began learning Chinese dance when she was three years old. "There were moments of sheer agony, numerous occasions when I felt like giving up, but I chose to persevere and strive continuously to improve myself. Now, I have successfully mastered many dance moves that once seemed impossible."
The challenges she faced did not hinder her progress, and now receiving the scholarship is an unexpected affirmation of her efforts, encouraging her to step out of her comfort zone. "I used to be shy about expressing myself, but since starting university, I've become bolder. The supportive learning environment at Lingnan allows my thoughts to be respected and my voice to be heard," she says.
"Even though there are differing opinions, we consider each other's perspectives and come to understand one another; this is the most wonderful aspect of my experience at university," she says.
Chan Lok-yee
Lok-yee is currently preparing for the Beijing Dance Academy Chinese Dance Grade Examination Level 9, aiming later to tackle the highest level of difficulty at level 13 and achieve certification.
"I've only completed about 20 percent of my life's journey, and failure is a normal part of it. Taking that brave first step makes today better than yesterday—just do it!’’ She says.
Lam Chun-yu
Navigating towards goals — Lam Chun-yu (Contemporary English Studies, Year 1)
Being the first university student in his family, and winning this scholarship fills Chun-yu with pride and gratitude, especially for the unconditional support from his family, which deeply moves him. "When I felt discouraged, they were there to encourage and comfort me. Receiving this scholarship not only brings a sense of achievement but also alleviates some of my family's burden."
He believes that the key to learning is to be courageous and concentrate on one's strengths, and that this confidence helped him stand out from the other scholarship candidates.
“Life without goals is like sailing without a compass.” Chun-yu is planning a career in education, and is particularly interested in English history and literature. Excited about the many exchange opportunities at Lingnan, Chun-yu hopes to study abroad on an exchange programme in Europe, preferably in the United Kingdom. "I want to immerse myself in the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the similarities and differences between the UK and Hong Kong."
"No journey is wasted" — Su Jiawen (Translation, Cross-cultural Studies, and Corporate Communication, Year 1)
"Life is an exam without right or wrong answers; there are no wasted paths as long as you have no regrets about your decisions," Jiawen says about her immense joy upon learning of her scholarship, which she sees as proof that her hard work has paid off.
Beyond studying, she volunteers with the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association and the Shamshuipo Central Happy Teens Club. "Helping people as much as I can is truly meaningful," she says.
Jiawen also volunteered at an event organised by Lingnan and the Tuen Mun District Office of Home Affairs Department, where she gained valuable experience in event planning. "Although I'm unsure of what career I will pursue, I will continue to contribute to society in my own small way. I plan to do more volunteer work focused on environmental issues, as this is a crucial matter that deserves our attention and care," she says.
"In future, I will study even more diligently and never take this prize for granted." Jiawen encourages modesty in everyone: "I often think about my shortcomings, and welcome every opportunity to participate in activities and spend time with other people. I learn a lot from the people around me."
Su Jiawen
Chan Lok-yee, Lam Chun-yu, Su Jiawen and Lee Sum-yuet (Business Administration, Year 1) received The Link University Scholarship 2024/25 in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements and contributions to community service.
The Link University Scholarship, established in 2015, aims to reduce barriers to education by providing non-means-tested scholarships to outstanding local Hong Kong students who are the first in the three generations within their families to attend universities in Hong Kong. Each awardee receives a non-means tested scholarship of HK$20,000, and is invited to networking events and have opportunities to participate in community services and on-the-job training that will broaden their university experience.