My experience on the WBS Careers Trek to China and Hong Kong 2025

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the WBS Careers Trek to China and Hong Kong 2025, an immersive experience that connects students with some of the world’s leading organisations.

The trek brought together firms such as Procter & Gamble, Tencent, and SHEIN in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, alongside Alpha Sights, Cathay Pacific, Deloitte, and Hang Seng Bank in Hong Kong. Over the course of a week, students were able to select which companies to visit, gaining invaluable exposure to diverse industries while engaging with recruiters and Warwick alumni. The journey culminated in a WBS Talent & Alumni Network Evening at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, providing the perfect platform to connect with industry professionals and reflect on our experiences.

Inside Hang Seng Bank: innovation meets people-centric culture

Among the company visits, I chose to explore the headquarters of Hang Seng Bank in Hong Kong. We were warmly welcomed with an introductory session that outlined the bank’s values, mission, and graduate career opportunities. What stood out most was the commitment to employee well-being and innovation.

During the office tour, I was impressed by the bank’s open, flexible workspace — from hot desk seating that encourages collaboration to relaxation and recreation areas that reflect a culture of balance and inclusivity. The highlight, however, was the newly renovated Hong Kong Main Branch and its innovative “Come to You” Service Concept. Customers can scan a QR code to select a seat in the Smart Teller area, and staff come directly to assist them, demonstrating a seamless blend of technology and service excellence.

Networking and fintech Insights

Following the tour, we attended an alumni panel featuring three Warwick graduates now working at Hang Seng Bank. Their diverse journeys revealed that career paths in banking are far from linear. One alumnus entered through a management trainee route, while another transitioned from IT and consulting before finding his place in finance. This taught me that there is no single formula for success. It is never too late to pivot as long as you stay curious and keep developing relevant skills.

The trek concluded with the WBS Talent & Alumni Network Evening, a highlight that brought together professionals from industries such as aviation, banking, and consulting. A particularly insightful session led by Professor Zhun explored Hong Kong’s new Stablecoin Bill, emphasising the regulatory balance between innovation and financial stability. It deepened my understanding of how fintech continues to transform global financial services.

Personal growth and takeaways

On a personal level, the trek pushed me far beyond my comfort zone. I used to find networking intimidating, often viewing recruiters as authority figures. However, through alumni and recruiter interactions, I learned three lessons that reshaped my mindset and approach to applications and interviews: 

• First, authenticity matters most. Being genuine leaves a stronger impression than rehearsed answers. One recruiter’s advice resonated deeply: “Don’t treat the recruiter as someone who will hire you; treat them as someone you will work with.” 
• Second, I discovered the power of strategic storytelling. Successful candidates craft a cohesive personal narrative that connects passion, values, and experiences, rather than merely listing achievements.
• Finally, the trek reinforced the importance of agility and technological awareness. Even in traditional industries like banking, digital transformation is redefining roles. That is why I continue to enhance my skills through virtual job simulations, data analysis training, and consulting projects, staying ready for a fast-changing job market.

Reflecting on this experience, I am deeply grateful to Warwick Business School for organising such an enriching opportunity. The Careers Trek expanded my global outlook, strengthened my confidence, and clarified my career direction. I still remember my earlier Cathay Pacific Insight Day, which became a key topic in my internship interview and helped me secure my summer intern role at Cathay. It reminded me that grasping opportunities, no matter how small, can open unexpected doors.