Aggie Cheng, a Year 3 student in the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Heritage Education and Arts Management programme, enrolled in the HC because she believes it can help expand her professional network. “As a student in arts management, networking is essential,” she explains. “I believe the Honours College provides opportunities to connect with industry professionals and peers, which is why I applied. So far, it has broadened my horizons and helped me prepare for a future career in heritage and arts management,” says Aggie, who aspires to become a museum curator.

For Monica Hsaung Hnin Htwe, a Year 3 student studying for a Bachelor of Education (Honours) in English Language (Primary), joining the HC has been a chance to push her academic boundaries and develop holistically. “I was drawn to the programme because it allows me to go beyond regular coursework and challenge myself academically,” Monica says. “I’m also passionate about mentorship and interdisciplinary learning, both of which are key components of the Honours College experience.”

The HC aims to teach students skills beyond the classroom and textbook. It equips them with soft skills and training that extend beyond the regular curriculum. Both Aggie and Monica expressed particular excitement about the opportunity to learn business etiquette. “We went to a restaurant and learned about business etiquette in a professional setting,” said Aggie. “This included communication skills and table manners - things that are definitely not part of the regular curriculum. I found it very useful.”

Monica also reflects on her experience learning photography and videography skills, which she found both exciting and valuable. “A photo or video can convey credibility and trustworthiness even before you speak. Whether you’re the photographer or the person being photographed, you have to think about the lighting and how you present yourself. It was entirely new to me, but very interesting,” she says.

In addition to acquiring soft skills, HC students gain invaluable mentorship opportunities. Aggie and Monica have both met with HC Supervisors who provided guidance on their research goals and directions. As part of their PRIDE pathway, the two are keen to delve into research. Although it is still early to begin their projects, their supervisors have already helped them refine their objectives.

“My supervisor helped me think clearly about my goals, the challenges ahead, and gave me guidance on how to adopt a researcher’s mindset and approach a project,” says Monica. For Aggie, her academic supervisor helped her identify the direction for her capstone project, which will serve as her final year project. She also had the opportunity to meet her HC Professional Mentor, The Honourable Bernard Chan, who shared his personal story and offered valuable advice to her and her peers. “You will never know what’s in store for you when opportunities arise; it’s important that you grab them.”

Attending HC courses alongside their undergraduate studies can be demanding, but Aggie and Monica are grateful to the HC for effectively managing timetables to help avoid overwhelming commitments. For Monica, prioritisation is key to striking a balance between regular coursework and HC training. “Everyone at the HC is highly motivated, and that makes me work even harder,” she adds. Both students emphasised that they do not feel overwhelmed by their commitments thanks to the HC's supportive structure.

Being part of the first cohort of the Honours College has instilled a deep sense of pride and responsibility in both students. “The Honours College gives me a clear sense of purpose,” explains Monica. For Aggie, “It’s important for me to do the best I can and to be proactive.”

For students considering applying to the HC, Aggie offers words of encouragement. “If you have a goal or a task you want to achieve, and if you are proactive, the HC is for you.” Monica echoed her sentiments, adding: “If you are curious and eager to learn, go for it!”