Student Profile:

Major: Data Science and Big Data Technology

Field of Study: Quantitative Finance

Awards and Honours:

• 2024 Presidential Award for Outstanding Graduates
• 2021-2022 & 2022-2023 Tier One Scholarship
• 2021-2022 & 2022-2023 Keenstar Scholarship

Enrolled Programme:

• M.Sc. in Financial Engineering at Baruch College, City University of New York

Other Offers:

• M.Sc. in Financial Mathematics at the University of Chicago
• M.Sc. in Statistics at the University of California, Los Angeles

Q&A

Q: How would you describe your experience at the School of Data Science in one word and why?

A: My keyword is "freedom."

One reason is that the School of Data Science offers a variety of courses across different levels and disciplines, allowing me to choose courses based on my interests and career goals. I took courses in CS, STA, DS, and MAT, benefiting greatly from the flexibility provided by SDS's study scheme.

Additionally, the professors have diverse research interests and ample resources. Most of them are very supportive and encouraging of students' explorations. They not only provide strong academic support but also share valuable advice and experiences to help guide my career choices.

Q: Students are very busy with their studies, and it can be challenging to coordinate their studies and other aspects of life. How do you adapt and strike a balance?

A: I seldom use the term "balance" as it seems too difficult in a high-pressure environment.

For me, managing study and life is like solving an optimisation problem. Once I identify my objective function, I ensure my actions align closely with achieving the optimal solution. At the beginning of each term, I understand the workload and grading criteria of my courses. I strive to maximise my workload while ensuring good academic performance, as I tend to work best under pressure and deadlines. My study rhythm follows the deadlines, and my study hours are determined by the course load. I play during free times and focus on assignments when deadlines approach. If I'm feeling particularly stressed or overwhelmed, I take half a day or a full day off. During lectures, I might relax if the material is simple or not essential (laughs).

Q: What do you consider the most beneficial aspect of your time at CUHK-Shenzhen's School of Data Science?

A: My experience at the School of Data Science has significantly boosted my confidence.

Most of the professors I encountered were approachable and supportive. They encouraged classroom participation, patiently answering questions that might seem "stupid" or thoughtless. In research or project discussions, they seriously considered my "ordinary" or seemingly impractical ideas. In casual conversations about life, they shared their experiences, guiding my often whimsical thoughts.

As a freshman, I was hesitant to raise my hand in class and doubted my ability to excel in maths and science due to fixed mindsets. Now, I ask questions without hesitation and confidently share my thoughts with industry professionals. Special thanks to Professors Jianfeng Mao and Ruimao Zhang for their guidance in both research and my personal development.

Q: Which habits developed during your studies at SDS have been most beneficial to your growth?

A: Firstly, dare to ask questions and seek help. It's okay not to know something; admitting it and then learning is key.

Secondly, communicate often with peers and mentors. Networking can lead to surprising discoveries through diverse perspectives.

Lastly, trust that the process of hard work is often tedious, but it's essential to stay focused and persistent through challenges. 

Q: Could you share a person, event, or experience that had a significant impact on you during your undergraduate studies?

A: Special thanks to Yueming Hong from the Class of 2018 in Supply Chain Management. While I believe in self-reliance, his support over the past three years has been invaluable. He provided new perspectives, helped me realize that solutions are always available, and offered immense care and encouragement during tough times. His support has helped me become the independent and confident person I am today.

Q: Did you have any internships or practical experiences during your undergraduate studies (including student club activities)? Could you share some insights?

A: I had three internships during my undergraduate years, all as a quantitative research intern at quantitative private equity firms. My main responsibilities included researching financial data, identifying potential market rules, and using statistical knowledge for backtesting and validation. These experiences allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world data and develop market insights. I advise fellow students to take advantage of the valuable data and computing resources during their quantitative internships, think critically, validate their ideas, and learn from experienced professionals in the company because there are many things we can learn from them.

Q: Now that you have graduated and are continuing your studies, could you share your experience or any tips on applying for further studies?

A: The application season was so stressful that I have forgotten many of the emotions I experienced.

From my experience:

1. Don’t overload yourself in the first term of your final year. For example, I took 18 credits, including two demanding maths courses, audited two postgraduate courses, and applied to 15 programmes. This workload meant I slept barely five hours a night until December. A heavier workload is not advisable. Towards the end of the term, you’ll be juggling applications, maintaining a good GPA (as some deadlines are after term results), and dealing with rejections, which can be overwhelming.

2. Recognise that applications are influenced by many factors beyond your control, such as the preferences of the institutions for certain schools, majors, or internship experiences. You can apply to many top programmes, like gambling, but if you’re rejected, remember it’s often not a reflection of your abilities and do not feel frustrated. When looking at previous application cases, focus on overall trends rather than outliers, as admissions may seem random on an individual level but follow patterns on a larger scale.

3. Your personal statement doesn't need to be perfect in terms of wording and syntax. It’s more important to convey your ideas, experiences, and thoughts clearly.

Q: What is your major in your further studies, and why did you choose it?

A: I am pursuing a degree in Quantitative Finance, aiming to become a quantitative researcher or trader.

I want a future career that is cooperative, inspiring, risky, challenging, and research-valued. I don't want a monotonous job, and I hope to earn a decent income. The Quantitative Finance programme exposes me to a broad range of knowledge, and the challenges from the market are very appealing to me.

Q: Do you have any advice for students feeling lost or pressured by their peers? 

A: This seems like an unsolvable issue, but I can share my experience and thoughts.