【Sharing by TANG Shing Lam, Awardee of the UGC Targeted Taught Postgraduate Programmes Fellowships Scheme (2022/23)】
Awardee: TANG Shing Lam (Graduated in Summer 2023)
02 Nov 2023 (Thu)
“I have been studying advertising for four years, and while I have gained valuable lessons, I find myself questioning what I have truly achieved and what lies ahead.” This was the core question that consumed my thoughts as I prepared to apply for the fellowship. To find the answers, I meticulously listed all the courses, activities, and rewards that have shaped my educational journey. I delved into my past study and internship experiences to determine if the path I envision aligns with my true aspirations.
Upon completing my bachelor’s degree, I realized that I had been immersed in the “fantasy” of theoretical knowledge, disconnected from its practical application in the real world. This is not to say that the knowledge from books is useless or inadequate; rather, as a student, I had become accustomed to accepting and regurgitating information without truly understanding its practical implications. Recognizing this discrepancy, I yearned for the next stage of my education to focus more on actual practices, allowing me to break free from being a mere learning machine. I believed that this shift would not only better prepare me for my personal statement and interviews but also enable me to present a deeper understanding of myself to others, showcasing why I am deserving of the opportunities I seek.
When I received the offer from City University and was granted the fellowship, my imagination ran wild with thoughts of the wonderful master’s life that awaited me. Although the program aligned perfectly with my interests and had the support of my family, concerns about tuition fees lingered in my mind. Without the fellowship, I would have needed to apply for a student loan, potentially burdening my learning experience. I might have had to juggle part-time jobs or internships during the semesters, sacrificing opportunities to participate in team documentary shoots or improve my individual Chinese New Year video. These are pursuits that I hold dear, and I refuse to let financial constraints dictate the course of my life.
I am immensely grateful to the fellowship scheme and the professors who have granted me this precious opportunity. This year has been transformative, as I not only achieved a master’s degree but also applied and utilized my knowledge in every aspect of my work. The memories of creating documentaries on Hand-made Wood Carving and Yingge Dance, as well as the unforgettable night spent at the Peak capturing the sunrise with my teammates, will forever be etched in my mind. Through this program, I have not only deepened my understanding of visual media but, more importantly, learned how to transform this knowledge into tangible outcomes.
