1) Do you think you will continue to dance or act?
"I hope so. For the moment I’m really enjoying university life and feel that I still have so much to experience and so much to discover. I don’t have any definite plans for the future at the moment and that’s all part of growing up. But, I still love dancing and acting and hope to continue whether it be on stage or in film."
2) Is it true that you never tried smoking or became fully drunk before?
"Yes, never have. I don’t like the taste and I don’t really like what alcohol does to your body… now hot chocolate that’s another matter. Lol"
3) Of all the countries you've been to, why did you choose The University of Hong Kong to complete your masters degree over a U.S. one?
"I was seriously torn as to whether to stay in China or go to the States as let’s face it the U.S. has some of the best universities in the world. But, ultimately, I loved Chinese language and really liked the idea of experiencing a different country and culture – and I must say I’ve never been happier, I absolutely love HKU."
4) What were your first impressions of Hong Kong and China?
"I first came to China as an undergraduate student at Beijing Language and Culture University and was very much impressed by Chinese culture and the hospitality of Chinese people. I came back two years later as a graduate student at Peking University and got the opportunity to explore China further as well as teach English in a rural city in Hunan Province.
Chinese society in general has a very high moral standard and takes pride in respecting individuals and diversity. Moreover, China is at the forefront of research and development, especially in the field of education, which is quickly changing at a rapid pace. I have learned overtime why Hong Kong is renowned for its high standards in education and research. Overall, China is a very upbeat to me, over congested (at times), and a safe country."
5) In what ways was studying in Hong Kong and China different from studying in the United States?
"To be honest, there really isn’t much of a difference. The education in both the United States and Hong Kong allows freedom of thought. I guess the major difference in Hong Kong compared to the United States is the Professors. In the U.S., I met Professors who were not very keen on teaching and would rather spend all their time on their own research. Here at HKU, the Professors are so passionate about their subjects and passing on their knowledge. I really learn how to think critically and analytically. I am very positive about my experience here in Hong Kong, and am very impressed by the Professors."
6) How well did HKU meet your expectations?
"Yes, perfectly. The University of Hong is the top ranked university in Asia and enjoys very high reputation for its leading academic research and for providing an open gate to China's educational system. At HKU, I had the chance to learn from the best in my academic field and to work with the very top Professors in Higher Education, together with a group of highly talented students from many different cultures and backgrounds. Additionally, I had numerous opportunities to network with a number of postgraduate students in my current residence at the HKU Graduate House.
What is great is how the city is well connected to the city life. I am really kept up to date with the Chinese educational system and that is extremely important. In addition, the university is small enough that there is a sense of community with other students, but large enough to offer a lot of opportunities. My advice to other international students coming to HKU is to buy a bike and travel around Asia."
7) How will your education in Hong Kong and China help further your career?
"I see myself doing academia research in the future and I would like take my experience studying at HKU back to the United States when I decide to pursue a doctoral degree in Higher Education with a concentration on Academic Affairs and Student Development."
8) Why did you get involved with WorldTeach?
"I think a lot of young people like me are very concerned about education, specifically of those living in extreme poverty. WorldTeach is all about sending volunteers to teach English in developing countries. The more I can help promote international education and people marginalized societies, the greater chance we have as a generation of changing lives and investing in the future of our planet."
9) Have you ever dated one of your family members?
"Nooo! It would be like dating your brother!"
10) Is it true that you met Shawn Johnson when she competed at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games?
"Oh my God, that is so not true! I only shaked her hand once and we shared a taxi from an event to the after party, but never let truth get in the way of a good story and all that."
