Damon NG: Freedom to Explore Builds a Versatile Future

Mr Damon NG, a 2014 graduate of the Department of English Language and Literature, has carved out a successful career in banking and currently serves as a Client Account Manager.

Reflecting on his four years at Hong Kong Shue Yan University, he emphasised that the Department provided students with the freedom to explore language, literature, culture, and translation, which laid a solid foundation for both personal and professional development.

One of his most memorable experiences was a compulsory drama course he took in his third year, in which students organised and staged their own production. Damon took on a female role for this project. To prepare, he grew his hair, wore stage makeup, and extensively practised his voice. He found the experience both enjoyable and valuable, as it helped him develop performance skills, teamwork, and confidence in communication.

Additionally, Damon enjoyed cultural studies and science fiction literature. Writing a science fiction story required students to create coherent worlds and plots, which strengthened their creativity, logical thinking, and writing skills. He believes that an English education fosters more than just language proficiency; it equips students with essential reading, communication, and cultural understanding skills, as well as the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations.

These skills have proven useful in his banking career, where effective communication with clients is essential, whether through emails, phone calls, or meetings. Exposure to films, literature, philosophy, and diverse cultures has broadened his perspective and helped him build trust with people from various backgrounds.

For Damon, the most valuable aspect of Shue Yan is its respect for students’ choices. Teachers provided guidance on coursework, careers, and personal goals without limiting students’ aspirations. He believes this supportive culture embodies the human- centred spirit of the university’s motto: “Cultivating virtues of benevolence; broadening horizons and knowledge.”