HKUST Business Review

55 HKUST Business Review Cover Why Global Exposure Matters More than Ever Global exposure, in Ip’s view, is one of the most powerful ways to broaden that lens. “I always encourage students going on exchange to take advantage of courses not available at HKUST, even if they may not count as credits for graduation. Exposure to different cultures, teaching styles and perspectives is something employers value more than students realize,” he explains. Interdisciplinary Learning for an Interconnected Economy Professor Ip also sees interdisciplinary learning as essential to HKUST’s next chapter. “The value of interdisciplinary studies, a double major or a major with another minor degree is becoming increasingly essential, for example pairing economics with math” he says. “Companies themselves are reorganizing along interdisciplinary lines.” He argues that students should be encouraged to blend fields creatively—finance with data analytics, marketing with psychology, management with social science. “The more perspectives you bring, the more marketable you become. Employers are looking for people who can connect dots across disciplines.” Thinking out of the box, he adds, often leads students to opportunities they never initially imagined. That same ability to “connect the dots,” Professor Ip adds, is transforming philanthropy and corporate engagement. “Cross selling in philanthropy is now the norm,” he says. Another pillar of Professor Ip’s advice is the importance of building a robust network of mentors. Success, he says, is rarely achieved in isolation. Therefore he encourages students to actively connect with teachers, industry leaders and alumni. He has seen time and again how building these relationships can open doors. The 35th anniversary, in his view, is an ideal moment to deepen these partnerships and reinforce the University’s community value. A Mindset for the Next Chapter Passionate about guiding career success, Professor Ip counsels 40 students at the Business School each year, providing career guidance along with recommendations and referrals to companies. His influence now extends beyond the School and HKUST. As the founding chairman of the new Career Development Advisory Board in the School of Humanities and Social Science, he hopes to see more cross school collaboration in both curriculum and career support. In addition, he chairs two career development advisory committees at another university in Hong Kong. He emphasizes that faculty should rethink their role in student development, moving beyond academic teaching to include practical application to foster broader knowledge while also including career advising in their teaching. Reflecting on his ten-year journey at HKUST, which included six years as a Council Member, Professor Ip returns to a message that has become a constant in his counseling: humility, adaptability and curiosity will carry young professionals further than any credential. “Getting an HKUST degree is an important first step,” he says. Looking ahead, Professor Ip envisions an HKUST career that embraces interdisciplinary learning, global exposure, employer partnership and a strong culture of alumni engagement. Holding dual roles as the Foundation Chairman and CDAC Chairman, he strongly believes in and supports student development, career counseling and alumni engagement, which complement each other not only in job referrals but ultimately in building a closely knit university. Leading by example with a generous donation to the University, honored with the Business School’s roof garden bearing his name. HKUST Business School Career Development Advisory Council Objectives • To advise the Dean and Senior Administration of the School in developing the School’s strategic direction relating to students’ career counseling and job placements • To provide insights, advice and counsel on trends, economic changes and cultural shifts that impact career opportunities • To connect the School and its students with the wider business community