Alumni Stories - 2024 Yersin awardees

Get inspired

If you want to look at the testimonials from previous years, please refer to:

Finding the application link? You can apply for the France Excellence Yersin scholarship via: https://yersin-hongkong-campusfrance.org/

For details related to the scholarship, please click here.

Melody Lau (CityU Alumna)

Institution: NEOMA Business School

Degree: MSc in Marketing, International Brand Management (Reims Campus)

"Ever since my adolescence, I have cultivated a deep admiration for France, which has served as a profound source of motivation throughout my academic journey. When I was still doing my Bachelor's programme at CityU, I participated in an exchange programme at Sciences Po Paris. Upon my arrival there, I embarked on my first formal French language course (after only informal studies by talking to french students in CityU!) — this immersive experience not only enhanced my linguistic abilities but also provided me with a comprehensive understanding of French customs, history, and geography. My commitment to excel academically was validated when I undertook a language evaluation administered by Sciences Po, revealing that I achieved a remarkable B2 level proficiency!

Apart from interning at several French companies during my Bachelor's programme to contribute my understanding of digital marketing and events management, I joined the Working Holiday Scheme for France in 2024. During my working holiday, I worked in marketing and communication for a camping. I fell in love with the South of France and would like to have my own company in marketing communication or work in the luxury sector for real estate or yacht boats in that region after my studies.

Currently, at NEOMA Business School, we are working with the biggest French retailer, Leclerc, and the world-popular chocolate company Ferrero, including their Kinder brand, to develop their global marketing strategies. I am making the most of my time here, building new connections with aspiring individuals and learning cutting-edge marketing and branding techniques. I hope that my sharing will inspire you!"

Yvonne Lui (CUHK Alumna)

Institution: Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne - UFR 4 Arts plastiques et sciences de l'art

Degree: Master Arts, lettres, langues, mention Cinéma et Audiovisuel

"I have always been intrigued by French culture, such as Molière’s plays, existentialist essays and novels, and New Wave films. These works are manifestations of France’s rich cultural heritage, and inspired my desire to learn the language and study in France. That’s why, now, I am doing a Master’s Degree in the École des Arts de la Sorbonne, with a specialisation in Screenwriting, Directing and Film Production.

Studying in France allows me to see, on a global scale, what my peers in the film industry are doing. Living in the modern global village, I think it is important to make films that go beyond my immediate surroundings and leave a mark on the world. Through encounters and discussions with filmmakers in France, I am absorbing new ideas and expanding my knowledge, which I hope will be incorporated in my future films, contributing to Hong Kong’s cultural industry, while speaking to the world.

My life in Paris has been fruitful. I regularly create short films with my classmates alongside our study in order to practice our film techniques! The photo above was taken during the Production of our short film "Artistes un jour".

Daisy Wong (CityU Alumna)

Institution: Université Côte d'Azur

Degree: Master's Degree in Biobank & Complex Data Management

"In 2023, after my fresh graduation of my Bachelor of Science degree (Biological Sciences Major) from the City University of Hong Kong, I immediately continued my master's studies as an M1 student in Biobank & Complex Data Management in the Université Côte d'Azur, Nice.

My passion for medical biology has been growing since high school, fascinated by the complexity and sophistication of Human Sciences and Biomedical Sciences. As I continued my bachelor's studies at the university, I became increasingly interested in different medical areas, especially scientific research. In my Bachelor's programme, I contributed to two tailor-made practical courses, one about the Expression of Circulating Tumor Cells in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Patients and the other on High Content Screening of Anitviral Library, alongside other work in the laboratories in Hong Kong.

All these experiences drove me to choose Biobank & Complex Data Management as my specialisation. Knowing that France is a pioneer in this field, I am grateful for getting this France Excellence Yersin scholarship to be able to deepen my research pursuit."

Ka Kio

Institution: Sciences Po Paris

Degree: Master Research in Political Science

"Born and raised in Macao, I have had the privilege of exploring diverse academic paths across multiple countries, each shaping my global outlook and career aspirations. After completing high school in Macao, I pursued my Bachelor’s in Applied Foreign Languages at the Catholic University of Portugal, followed by a postgraduate degree in Development Studies at the London of Economics and Political Science.

Moving to France, I continued my academic journey with a Master recherche in Political Science at Sciences Po Paris, a world-renowned institution for political science and international studies. Here, I conducted research on press freedom in Mozambique in collaboration with a PhD student from Tsinghua University. We presented our findings at the “ICA in Africa” Regional Conference in Cape Town—a key milestone that allowed me to gain research experience and share insights with a global academic audience.

Eager to gain practical experience, I interned at the United Nations Trade and Development, where I supported capacity-building initiatives related to international trade and port management. This was my first experience with the UN and allowed me to witness firsthand the critical role this UN agency plays in fostering global partnerships, addressing inequality, and supporting developing countries in building resilient economies. Currently, I am working with UNESCO’s Multi-Donor Programme in Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists at its headquarters in Paris, where I also assist in coordinating the World Press Freedom Day Global Conference 2025.

Studying in France has been a transformative experience. For students passionate about international relations and diplomacy, I highly recommend considering France and its prestigious grandes écoles. These institutions offer exceptional academic environments and countless opportunities to connect with leading experts in global affairs. For those aspiring to intern at the United Nations or other international organisations, do not hesitate to apply. It’s a truly rewarding experience that provides invaluable insights into global challenges and multilateral diplomacy.

Thanks to the Consulate-General of France in Hong Kong and Macao, the France Excellence Yersin Scholarship has opened doors I never imagined and empowered me to pursue a meaningful path in international development. I hope my journey encourages young people from Hong Kong and Macao to explore their passions, broaden their horizons, and make impactful contributions to a better future."

Olga Ng (HKUST Alumna)

Institution: ESSEC Business School & CentraleSupélec

Degree: Master in Data Sciences & Business Analytics

"My journey to a master's program in France began when I was in high school, where I had the opportunity to participate in a 1-week exchange program in Paris. That experience ignited my passion for French culture and education, and I have been fortunate enough to return to France for an exchange semester during my undergraduate studies. Those experiences have been life-changing, and I have developed lifelong friendships that have supported me through my master's application process.

The Alexandre Yersin Excellence Scholarship provides me with the financial support I need to pursue my master's degree in Data Science and Business Analytics at ESSEC and Centrale Supélec. The knowledge and skills I gain from this program, coupled with my undergraduate degree in economics and finance, helps to position me as a strong candidate for a trader position in a financial institution."

Ken Lee (HKBU Alumnus)

Institution: Sciences Po Bordeaux

Degree: Économie Sociale et Solidaire & Innovation Sociale

The France Excellence Yersin Scholarship has enabled me to immerse myself in a vibrant academic and cultural environment, opening my eyes to new ways of thinking and living. My studies in Social and Solidarity Economics have shed light on innovative models for our future economy, which in turn encourages me to embrace and explore forward-thinking ideas.

Additionally, my involvement with associations regarding Asian culture, oenology and outdoor recreation has enriched my understanding of the local culture, all the while empowering me to foster a cultural connection between France and Hong Kong.

Along the way, I've forged meaningful friendships and gained invaluable insights into diverse cultures, ultimately broadening my understanding of the world.