The Division of Science and Technology (DST) held a High Table Dinner on 2 November, with guest speaker Prof Jacky So speaking of financial independence.
President Prof Ng Ching-Fai with guest speaker Prof Jacky So
Dean of DST, Prof Stephen Chung started the evening by introducing UIC’s guest speaker, Prof Jacky So, who is Chair Professor of Finance at Beijing Normal University, Dean of Faculty of Business Administration at University of Macau, as well as Director of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Economics and Management.
Dean of DST, Prof Stephen Chung
Before Prof So began his speech, he told the audience how he used the fable of ‘The tortoise and the hare’, which is a tale about two animals competing in a race, as an example to teach his grandchildren about patience, humility, and using the resources around you. These concepts can be applied to real life situations as well, with his opening speech regarding common financial mistakes.
The failure to save money, create a sustainable (or affordable) life style, or to seek financial advice, are damaging mistakes that people, especially students, could make. “My generation is the same as you”, Prof So said. “The key is when and how.” Prof So encouraged students to self-reflect and learn “When and how” when determining what is most beneficial for them.
Prof Jacky So, guest speaker at the DST High Table Dinner
He continued the discussion by talking about the “Chinese Dream”: financial independence. He explains this can be accomplished with the concept of buying low and selling high.
Financial decisions come with multiple risks, various benefits, but also possible consequences. As Prof So stated, “Money is the mean, not the objective”, reminding students to focus on making responsible financial decisions, but to not obsess over making money.
Prof Jacky So speaks to the attentive audience
After his speech, Year 1 CDS student Yang Jingxuan performed a beautiful Guzheng song for the guests. The dinner concluded with a toast and a farewell to everyone that attended the High Table Dinner.
Yang Jingxuan performing Spring of Snow Mountain on the Guzheng
(From left) Mr Nelson Chan, Prof Lilian Kwan, Prof Stephen Chung, Prof Jacky So, President Prof Ng Ching-Fai, Prof Zhang Cong, Prof Li Jianhui, Dr Ricky Hou
A toast to conclude the evening of the High Table Dinner
Reporter: Marissa Furney
Photographer: Ben Wen
Editors: Samuel Burgess, Deen He, Étienne Fermie
(from MPRO)
