Igniting Dreams Through Diverse Majors

Diversification of Majors - Class of 2025

Amid the sweeping tide of artificial intelligence reshaping our world, the very notion of career security is being redefined. This year, our Class of 2025 students have achieved outstanding admissions results with commendable boldness in departing from convention. In addition to the traditionally popular fields such as Mathematics and Finance, there has been a significant rise in applications for programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Biomedical Sciences, Law, and Zoology. 

This diversification in major choices reflects the personalised development of our students and mirrors a new generation’s profound contemplation of career values. In this special feature, we invite our University and Careers Counsellor, Ms Li Ren, along with four students whose unique journeys reflect this trend, to share their insights and experiences on choosing a major.
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#From the Counsellor  Guiding Multidisciplinary Pathways

Ms Ren has expertly outlined this year’s emerging trend in subject diversification. She explains, “Although the majority of students still opt for traditional subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Finance and Art & Design, in recent years we have seen a marked increase in applications for emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. At the same time, disciplines such as Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Law, Aviation, and Linguistics are gradually gaining traction.”

Regarding support for students venturing into emerging fields, Ms Ren explains that the school has established a variety of co-curricular activities (CCAs) and actively encourages the formation of student interest groups. Through these enriching extracurricular programmes, students can further cultivate their passions.  Regular university fairs also offer opportunities for in-depth, one-on-one discussions with admissions officers from prospective institutions. Furthermore, the school’s robust alumni network offers invaluable insights and career guidance, enabling students to gain a comprehensive understanding of future employment trends and development of various disciplines. 

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Ms Ren further notes that to help students balance their passion for unconventional fields with practical career considerations, the school organises regular career planning lectures, invites industry experts to discuss employment prospects, and arranges hands-on activities that give students firsthand experience in professional environments. Coupled with one-to-one counselling guidance and regular reviews of course selections, this approach enables students to align their personal interests with market demand. She advises aspiring students: “It is essential to have a genuine passion for your chosen field and to conduct thorough research beforehand. Take full advantage of the extensive resources and alumni insights our school provides and face any unknown challenges with courage. 
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#From the Students  Discovering Answers Through Passion

Ava T  - Law

Ava T, applying for a law degree, shared her journey from the initial spark of interest to a resolute decision to apply. Since childhood, she has been captivated by the allure of the legal profession – with the portrayals of lawyers in literature and film planting the seeds of her ambition during her secondary school years. Although she hesitated at one point in high school, her passion was reignited following the broadcast of the second season of The Exciting Offer, ultimately prompting her decision to apply for the LLB (Bachelor of Laws) programme at the University of Hong Kong. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her counsellor, Ms Sophia Chen, who, upon receiving her interview invitation, promptly arranged one-to-one coaching with a practising lawyer. This guidance allowed Ava to approach her interview with calm and confidence after several in-depth discussions. She encourages her peers by saying, “Even a spark of interest is worth pursuing – follow your heart with courage.”
 

Jason N - Zoology

Jason N, who has received the offer to study Zoology at Monash University, recalled how his academic focus began to crystallise in Year 11. Having been passionate about animals from a young age, he deepened his understanding through documentaries and school biology courses, which introduced him to the fundamental physiology and ecological behaviours of animals. Moreover, by participating in biology competitions such as the BBO, he amassed a wealth of practical experience. Reflecting on the support he received, Jason remarked, “My counsellor Ms Serena Shi not only helped me select suitable universities and alternative options, but also assisted me in preparing my personal statement and recommendation letters; additionally, the university fairs organised by the school provided me with a clearer understanding of the application requirements of various institutions.” He emphasises that while niche subjects may attract less competition, “it is imperative to thoroughly review official websites to understand course content, employment rates, and available support – no detail should be overlooked.”

Jesse W - Art(Illustration)

Jesse W, who has received offers from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Parsons School of Design, shared his invaluable experience applying for an illustration programme. He noted that throughout the application process, the support from the school’s teachers was immense. His art teacher, Mr Lee Whitehouse, provided meticulous guidance on his artistic creations and offered professional advice on his portfolio; meanwhile, his counsellor, Mr Steve Hodgkin, gave him substantial support in drafting his application essays. Jesse is convinced that it was this comprehensive assistance from the school’s faculty that paved the way for a smooth application journey. He encourages all art enthusiasts to “continuously explore diverse art styles and the works of various artists, while never neglecting the practice of your fundamental skills – only by building a strong foundation can you create truly exceptional works of art.”
 

Mason G - Biology

Mason G, driven by a passion for Biology, has received offers from several universities, including UBC, the University of Toronto, the University of Glasgow, and the University of Ottawa. He noted that in addition to the school’s robust foundational courses, extracurricular biology competitions such as the BBO and iGEM have provided him with a substantial reservoir of subject knowledge and practical experience. The encouragement and guidance from his teachers have also proven invaluable throughout both competitions and the application process. Mason advises students when choosing major, “Firstly, define your goals and interests clearly; dare to break free from conventional boundaries, and trust that the comprehensive support offered by our school will help you secure a place at your ideal university.”


Whether through deep engagement in traditional fields or bold exploration of unconventional subjects, the diversification of programme choices exemplifies our students’ pursuit of their passions and their distinctive visions for future career paths. Be it Ava’s early inspiration from legal dramas, Jason’s rapt attention before animal specimens, or Mason’s daring strokes on the genetic map – we firmly believe that only through genuine passion and relentless endeavour can one forge a unique path in an increasingly competitive future. With the full support of our diverse school resources, we are confident that every student will go on to create a bright and successful future of their own.