From Jakarta to Hong Kong, Clarrence Mae Sets Her Sights on a Global Business Career at CUHK

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Indonesian Student Clarrence Mae Charts Her Future at CUHK Integrated BBA

HONG KONG SAR — Driven by ambitions to build a career in global business, Jakarta-born student Clarrence Mae has chosen The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) as the next step in her journey. Now in her first year, the graduate of SMAK 1 BPK Penabur Jakarta has already set clear goals, from securing an internship at a Big Four firm to building professional experience in Hong Kong before eventually returning to Indonesia.

Clarrence is currently pursuing the Integrated Bachelor of Business Administration (IBBA) programme at CUHK. Her decision to study in Hong Kong was a strategic one. She sees the city as a major global financial centre and an important bridge connecting countries and international markets.

“I think of Hong Kong as a financial hub, a bridge between countries. For someone who wants to study international business or finance, Hong Kong is the answer,” Clarrence said.

Drawn to CUHK Since a School Education Fair

Clarrence first discovered CUHK at an education fair held at her secondary school. Her interest grew after learning more about the university's academic reputation and experiencing an environment that she felt aligned with her future ambitions.

The campus environment, diversity, natural surroundings, and wide range of student organisations and activities all played a role in her decision.

“I fell in love with CUHK's environment, the buildings, the nature and all the diversity. The various organisations and events sealed it. For me, CUHK is just right,” she said.

Her academic commitment has also been supported by several scholarships. In addition to the University Admission Scholarship and a top-up scholarship from CUHK Business School, Clarrence received two additional scholarships upon admission: the Shum Wai Yau and Kong Fook To Belt and Road First-in-the-Family Tertiary Education Admission Scholarship and the United College CUHK Golden Jubilee First-in-the-Family Tertiary Education Admission Scholarship.

CUHK's standing also contributed to her decision, with the university ranked second in Hong Kong and 18th globally in the ranking she considered when choosing where to study.

Overcoming the Language Barrier

Adjusting to life in a new country has not been entirely without challenges. During her early days on campus, language barriers meant Clarrence occasionally missed important updates and information about university activities.

However, CUHK's support network for international students helped her adapt and build connections with students from different countries. She also joined a mentorship programme that provided an early introduction to Hong Kong's professional environment.

“It really opened my eyes to the real job market here,” she said.

Today, Clarrence has a clear picture of where she wants her journey to lead. Her goals include gaining internship experience at one of the Big Four firms, participating in an exchange programme, and developing her career in Hong Kong before eventually returning to Indonesia.

“For business, Hong Kong is the answer, and CUHK's reputation as one of the top universities in the world says it all. With the scholarship opportunities on top of that, it's truly a win-win,” she said. (*).