Alumni Stories | Rossetti Ung: Courageous Exploration of the Unknown, Self-discipline Leading to Self-fulfillment
Alumni Stories | Rossetti Ung: Courageous Exploration of the Unknown, Self-discipline Leading to Self-fulfillment
02
Dec
02/12/2024
Kei Ieng Ung (Rossetti), a graduate of the Bachelor of Architectural Studies programme in 2023, talks about the opportunity to study at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities of USJ.
Bravely seeking the unknown often brings about innovation, inspiration, and self-discovery. However, in new environments, one is faced not only with opportunities but also with various challenges and uncertainties. Only by self-breakthroughs can one reach higher goals. How did Rossetti, who bravely ventured to study in Europe, achieve all this? What drove her personal growth and academic pursuits, daring to dream and courageously pursue those dreams?
Exploration Begins with Curiosity
Kei Ieng Ung (Rossetti), a graduate of the Bachelor of Architectural Studies programme in 2023, talks about the opportunity to study at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities (FAH) of the University of Saint Joseph (USJ). She expressed that interest was both the motive for learning and the driving force for exploring the unknown. “Back in high school, majoring in science, I participated in a robotics club in my spare time. During this time, I gradually discovered my curiosity and interest in designing brochures and team uniforms within the group. Therefore, upon graduation, when choosing a study programme, I leaned towards exploring the field of design to expand my perspective and leverage my strengths.”
Based on recommendations from peers and teachers, she learned that USJ offered a realm of architectural research. After visiting the graduation exhibition of the architecture programme students of USJ and comparing it with other universities, she believed that the former’s style aligned more with her ideals, thus sparking the initial decision to enrol.
Internationalised Teaching Environment Promotes Learning Experience and Growth
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) programme of USJ covers teaching content such as physical model making, design history and theory, and computer-aided design modeling. Regarding the English-language teaching mode in classes, Rossetti believes that learning in English allows for communication with students and lecturers of different nationalities on campus, providing her with a unique international perspective and a good learning experience. “During my freshman and sophomore years, one of the architecture subjects required hands-on model making. Professors often encouraged various attempts, allowing me to understand the complexity and detail requirements of architectural design. Making models may lead you to new ideas while emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes, unintentionally gaining new insights and creating new possibilities. Looking back now while studying in Europe, I am more convinced of the importance of learning to make models, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications at USJ, which has been invaluable.”
Reflecting on her educational journey, Rossetti highlights a memorable mentor on campus, Professor Manuel Lam, who inspired her to explore and visit different places. “Studying at USJ, where most faculty members come from different countries and regions, including Portuguese and Italians, their international backgrounds in teaching methods and philosophies are close to what I am experiencing now while pursuing my master’s degree in the Netherlands or my earlier studies in Milan, Italy. Therefore, in terms of course content, I found it relatively easier to assimilate.” She jokingly mentions that due to the influence of the learning environment, she has become accustomed to conversing with foreigners after studying abroad. “When I studied in high school, communication was mainly conducted in Chinese. Initially, it was inevitable to spend time adapting to the USJ campus environment and using English to communicate with professors on a daily basis. However, the Western education system encourages questioning, and the university provides courses for new students to strengthen their English skills, as well as workshops on how to write literature reviews in English. These practical knowledge and skills, even now while pursuing a master’s degree abroad, have been immensely helpful to me.”
USJ Mentorship Programme Helps Expand Horizons
Recalling her participation in the USJ Mentorship Porgramme in 2022, Rossetti considers it a significantly meaningful learning experience. “I believe the biggest gain was getting to know many local professionals working in this field. As a student, I usually spend most of my time on campus, with relatively little contact with industry professionals. However, this programme not only gave me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of industry development but also allowed me to interact with people from different backgrounds.” She mentioned that if it weren’t for alumni mentors introducing industry professionals to her, she might not have had the chance or been fully aware of the existence of these professionals. Therefore, these learning experiences are invaluable, helping to inspire her to think about the future and further reflect on how to plan her path.
The USJ Mentorship Programme aims to provide students and alumni with opportunities for interaction while enabling students to seek career advice and guidance from alumni mentors in various industries. Reflecting on past learning experiences, Rossetti also expresses gratitude to her former mentor, Mr. Michael Choi, “Apart from allowing me to gain insights into the practical aspects of the architecture industry and clarifying my views on future career paths, he also took me to visit an interior design architecture project in its semi-finished stage that was under construction at the time, something students generally do not have the opportunity to experience.” She candidly admits that the programme greatly inspired her and had caused a profound impact.
Participation in Exchange Programme Enhances Cross-cultural Skills
As a university with international characteristics, USJ is dedicated to promoting academic and talent exchange with overseas institutions. In addition to organising various exchange activities annually, it also offers exchange programmes for students from partner universities.
“Through the exchange programme, I found that learning knows no bounds because the architecture industry requires exposure to different design concepts from various places, enabling a deeper appreciation of spatial diversity. Broadening horizons in different locations brings about unique fusion and inspiration, which holds significant influence for envisioning one’s design works or career in the future,” expressed Rossetti. Contrasting with studying solely in Asia, she emphasized how this cross-cultural learning experience has enriched her understanding of the architectural academic field. By engaging with diverse cultural design concepts and practices, she has expanded her knowledge base, granting her a more comprehensive comprehension of architectural diversity.
Interestingly, during her study journey in Europe, Rossetti highlighted how her exchange time in Milan provided her with knowledge that couldn’t be acquired from books. As the saying goes, “Traveling ten thousand miles is better than reading ten thousand books,” a sentiment that resonated with her deeply. “When I was at the Polytechnic University of Milan for about six months, aside from regular classes, I also utilized my free time to tour different places in Europe. Visiting cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, and Rome allowed me to experience the local customs, culture, and architectural features.”
Daring to Dream, Courageously Pursuing Dreams
Regarding her post-graduate plans after obtaining her master’s degree, Rossetti indicated that she will not confine herself to working in Macau. “Because the knowledge we acquire is universally applicable. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in the Netherlands, this period of learning is not only to gain deeper professional expertise but also to broaden my perspectives and opportunities for future employment.”
Message to Current USJ Students
“Reflecting on my years at USJ, I encountered many mentors, from initially lacking self-confidence to venturing out boldly. If I were in my freshman year now, I would never believe I could achieve what I did. For younger students aspiring to study architecture, I want to encourage you not to fear; believe in your potential; do not restrict your horizons and thoughts; rely on your efforts without complaining about the environment.” Simultaneously, she advises younger students that in pursuing their dreams, they should maintain curiosity and a spirit of adventure while also valuing self-management and discipline, which is crucial for achieving a better version of oneself.
