Student Interview | Jolene Wang: Breaking Boundaries Through Ambition

Student Interview | Jolene Wang: Breaking Boundaries Through Ambition

“Inspire. Empower. Lead.” More than just a slogan, the essence of HKUFBE serves as a guide for students and alumni to grow and achieve their dreams.

In our “LEAD Interview” series, we invited four outstanding students and alumni to explore the various facets of leadership – each based on an anchor word starting with L, E, A, or D.

Jiaying Wang

A is for Ambitious
  • 2022 Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Peking University
  • 2026 Master of Finance, HKU Business School

From Beijing to Hong Kong, from classroom to real-world practice, Jolene prepares one step at a time. To pursue her dreams, she continuously practises, seeks personal growth through financial empowerment, and pioneers new frontiers for the latest generation of finance specialists.

Ambition is Daring to Break New Ground

Jolene began her academic journey at Peking University and is now pursuing a Master’s in Finance at HKU Business School. During an internship at a leading European venture capital firm, she was responsible for AI industry research for an investment opportunity.

She adopted a two-step approach: first, conducting extensive information gathering. Then she refined her insights into a concise, high-impact report. Her work received high praise from the investment team. For her, it was more than just a successful project – it was a reminder of why she loves Finance. “It’s about breaking down complexity and making it accessible,” she said. “Success isn’t just about rational thinking – it’s about thinking differently.”

From Practitioner to Enabler

While information asymmetry in the finance industry can be a barrier to her future career, Jolene refuses to limit herself to the short-term goal of becoming a practitioner. Her true ambition is to empower others with financial literacy so they can make informed decisions. This inspiring vision motivated her to continue her studies at HKU Business School after earning a Bachelor’s degree. “Being ambitious means having a clear vision, a strong purpose, and fierce determination to keep growing,” Jolene said.

Honing through Practice, Growing in Exploration

Ambition is Jolene’s main driver. She crafts detailed plans and skilfully puts them into action, honing her abilities through practice and gradually finding her growth in exploration. When she just moved to Hong Kong, she worked in a bistro in SoHo, viewing it as an opportunity to earn extra money, improve her English, and fully immerse herself in the city’s vibrant, international atmosphere. “Opportunities don’t always come knocking,” she said. “Instead, we should find our own door, step through it, and create a new world.”

To learn more about our Masters Programmes, please visit: https://masters.hkubs.hku.hk/