From our families: Helena Hu and Robert Wong
Helena Hu and Robert Wong became members of the University’s Family Programme when their son matriculated three years ago. Here, Helena discusses falling in love with St Andrews, hosting a Bejant Reception in Hong Kong, and her growing connection to the wider University community.
When our son was in high school, his university counsellor, Ms Ugolini, suggested he consider St Andrews because of the unique Scottish-Canadian medical programme (A990) offered. This began our family’s connection to the University of St Andrews, and, for that, we will always be so grateful to her.
The more we researched the University, its stellar reputation, beautiful traditions and the programme itself, the more excited we became. As a family, we agreed that St Andrews would be our son’s first choice for university. The University consistently holding the top spot in the student satisfaction ratings was one of the winning factors for us.
A major typhoon hit Hong Kong on the day our son was supposed to collect his student visa, and we were absolutely amazed that the visa office opened – all businesses usually close during typhoons – and he was able to collect his documents on time. Our flights were then delayed because of the weather, but we managed to arrive in St Andrews on the morning that orientation began, and our son had to hit the ground running.
In the meantime, my husband and I headed straight for the first cafe we found – Taste, on North Street. I had the most sublime latte I have ever had in my life. It was creamy, very rich in caffeine without being bitter and even had the faintest aroma of whisky. We have been back to Taste many times since, and although the lattes have been excellent, there has never been one quite like that very magical first one. Afterwards, we walked around North Street and were completely entranced by our surroundings. We ended up strolling along The Scores, marvelling at the world-renowned Old Course and soaking in the scenery at West Sands. I remember thinking that St Andrews must be the perfect university town.
My husband and I graduated from McGill University in Canada and had previously supported their send-off events, where new students and parents are introduced to one another before they head off to university. We felt that we could host a similar event for St Andrews students and their families, especially since Pamela Stephenson, Head of Development (London and International), advised us that there had not been a Bejant Reception held in Hong Kong since before the Covid-19 pandemic.
We planned the evening with Pamela and had a fabulous time. We believe that all attendees, parents and freshers, enjoyed themselves. It’s always fun to chat with fellow parents! I’ve even set up a Hong Kong St Andrews parents WhatsApp group to keep us all connected.
Everyone we’ve met from the University has been very warm and authentic. The Principal, Dame Sally Mapstone, spoke to new parents at Younger Hall during the Family Programme reception in our son’s first year. We felt so reassured by her warm and sincere words of welcome. When she came to visit Hong Kong, she was just as warm in person and even showed a gentle sense of humour. The principal inspired us to welcome and support new students, which has been a pleasure.
Having attended several St Andrews events in Hong Kong, I have now had the privilege of meeting several young St Andrews graduates. I have informally mentored a few, including a young graduate now pursuing law, and have been very happy to see her career flourishing.
Pamela introduced us to a St Andrews Chinese Language student – a fine Scottish lad – who was passing through Hong Kong, and he has become our son’s friend, and ours. We see him whenever we get the chance, whether in Hong Kong or St Andrews.
St Andrews is a truly magical place where dreams come true. Our son is living his best life and getting the finest education we could have ever imagined. We are truly grateful for him being part of such a welcoming university with the highest academic reputation, nestled in such a safe and beautiful town. We look forward, with mixed feelings, to graduation. It will definitely be one of the highlights of our lives, but it will also mean our time at St Andrews will come to an end.