The Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science at the University of Hong Kong was a truly ideal and unique place for me to pursue my doctorate degree. The helpful attention and the professional training offered by the faculty and staff prepared me for a career in academic research. Throughout my journey at HKU, I interacted with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and academic interests, and built a support network outside of my research group and department that I know will be essential to my success over the next several years. As a research student, I had been amazingly fortunate to have an advisor (Professor Guosheng Yin) who gave me the freedom to explore on my own, and at the same time, the guidance to recover when my steps faltered. His patience and support helped me overcome many crisis situations and finish my dissertation. My journey in Biostatistics and Clinical Trials would not have been possible without him. Besides my primary advisor, other faculties/instructors in the department also helped and supported me a lot, through mentoring/consulting activities or daily communications.
At HKU, not only can you learn how to question thoughts and express ideas but also how to think deeply and develop innovative yet decent methodologies independently. The diverse and inclusive environment around the University also facilitates the cultivation of communication skills and civic responsibility. I feel proud to be an alumnus of HKU and I express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the wonderful training and opportunities offered by the department.