MBA Life
Building Bridges: From Engineering to Finance Through HKUST MBA
Daryl Chan
Full-Time MBA
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CHARTING A NEW COURSE 

For Daryl, a civil engineer from Singapore, the path to an MBA at HKUST represents more than just a career transition—it's an architectural blueprint for his future in finance. With an international background and years of infrastructure experience, he's now constructing a different kind of foundation at one of Asia's most dynamic business schools. 

THE INNOVATION FACTOR 

"HKUST's relative youth is actually its strength," Daryl explains with enthusiasm. "Being unencumbered by tradition means greater flexibility to innovate and adapt to evolving demands. The school's commitment to cutting-edge research and its integration of technology into the curriculum resonate with my own desire to embody this innovative spirit as I progress in my career and personal life." 

ASIAN DYNAMICS, GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE 

The decision to pursue his MBA in Hong Kong was strategic. Having grown up in Singapore, Daryl recognizes the unique position Hong Kong holds as a global financial hub. "It's not just about the location," he notes. "It's about building an Asian-centric network with professionals who understand the nuances of doing business in this region." The program's strong ties to local industries and its emphasis on case studies from Asian markets provide invaluable insights. 

ENGINEERING A CAREER SHIFT 

The transition from civil engineering to finance might seem like a leap, but Daryl sees clear parallels. "As a civil engineer, I've constructed bridges and infrastructure, but finance beckons with its intricate architecture," he reflects. He views the HKUST MBA as his blueprint for this transition, offering both theoretical knowledge and practical applications through real-world consulting projects and industry immersions. The program's unique focus on experiential learning, including courses like ELP and other real business case Project, allows students to tackle real business challenges in diverse environments. 

PERSONAL GROWTH AND DISCOVERY 

Beyond professional advancement, Daryl's MBA journey is deeply personal. "This is about self-discovery and passion," he shares. "I want to explore my interests, uncover hidden talents, and gain a deeper understanding of what truly drives me." The program's structure, with 50% of credits dedicated to electives, allows him to tailor his learning journey to his aspirations. Additionally, the opportunity to participate in leadership workshops and personal development programs ensures he grows not only as a professional but as an individual. 

BUILDING LASTING CONNECTIONS 

The diverse, international cohort at HKUST plays a crucial role in Daryl's development. "Learning extends beyond the classroom," he emphasizes. "The connections we're building here will enrich our lives in countless ways. It's like a symphony of cultures, blending Asian insights with global wisdom." 

LOOKING AHEAD 

As Daryl navigates this transformative journey, his goals are clear: to become a confident and effective leader, master technical proficiency in finance, and develop keen business acumen. With HKUST's innovative approach and strong network, he's well-positioned to construct his bridge to success in the financial sector. 

The Hong Kong University of Science
and Technology
Clear Water Bay, Kowloon Hong Kong
(852) 2358 7533
Copyright © HKUST. All rights reserved. Designed by MTPC.
Prof. Xuan Wang
PhD, New York University
Research focus:
  • Operations Management
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Operations/manufacturing Flexibility Design and Analysis
  • Revenue Management and Online Marketplaces