When Andrew Chiu (Full-Time MBA Intake 2025) joined the HKUST MBA, he had a clear objective. He wanted to sharpen his analytical capabilities, strengthen his leadership skills, and prepare for the next stage of his career. What he did not expect was how central the community would become to that journey. 

I know the HKUST MBA is giving me the hard and soft skills I need to step into a leadership role in the next couple of years.

As the program progressed, Andrew found himself not only gaining clarity about his professional direction but also growing alongside people who challenged and supported one another throughout the experience. 

Building on a Hospitality Foundation 

Before the MBA, Andrew built his career in hospitality development, working across market analysis, project execution, and stakeholder engagement. This experience gave him a clear view of how strategic decisions shape hotel projects from concept to delivery.

As the industry evolves, he sees growing potential at the intersection of hospitality and artificial intelligence, particularly in improving decision making and operations. With ambitions to move into senior leadership and lead innovative hotel developments across Asia, Andrew recognized the need to strengthen his strategic and analytical capabilities. 

The program helped me realize there isn’t just one right path forward, it gives you the freedom to explore while keeping you grounded.

When Classmates Become a Community 

What surprised Andrew most was not the academic content, but the community around him. 

The diversity in nationalities and industries has opened my eyes to perspectives I’d never considered before.

With a cohort size that encouraged real connection, relationships formed quickly. Group projects extended into dinners, casual drinks, and weekend hikes. These shared moments built trust and strengthened collaboration.

Every shared experience either sparked new ideas or helped me lift someone else up.

For Andrew, this environment reflected a personal value. He thrives where people inspire one another, and that energy became part of daily life at HKUST. 

Finding Strength in Shared Challenges

Going through the HKUST MBA was both intense and rewarding for Andrew. Living up to its rigorous reputation, the program challenged him to think clearly under pressure and build real resilience. What made the experience even more meaningful was the shared journey—studying alongside equally committed classmates who supported one another through tough weeks. Beyond the cohort, Andrew found professors approachable and alumni genuinely invested in helping students succeed, offering mentorship, advice, and encouragement along the way. 

Becoming the Leader He Aspires to Be  

As Andrew continues his MBA journey, the impact goes beyond career preparation. 

This program isn’t just shaping my career. It’s shaping the leader I want to become.

What began as an academic pursuit has become a foundation built on growth, friendship, and shared momentum.