En Yu Yap
Faculty of Science
BSc 2025
En Yu Yap (BSc 2025), a Chemistry graduate from Malaysia who grew up in Switzerland, embodies a unique blend of scientific passion and global perspective. Throughout her studies, she demonstrated a deep commitment to scientific innovation and problem-solving, aspiring to drive operational transformation in the pharmaceutical industry with a focus on competitive intelligence and process optimization. Beyond the lab, En Yu is a well-rounded individual who balances academic rigor with creative pursuits, like playing the guitar and staying active through sports. A natural bridge builder, she connects people across cultures and disciplines, truly embodying the spirit of a Class Connector. From Malaysian roots to Swiss influences, and from laboratory bwenches to softball diamonds, En Yu represents the globally-minded, multifaceted graduate that HKU is proud to send into the world.
Most valuable lesson from uni?
Being Chairperson of SJC Students' Association taught me that real leadership isn't about being the loudest voice in the room - it's about creating space for others to shine. I remember when we were organizing the 111th anniversary dinner, I initially wanted to handle everything myself, but I discovered that when I stepped back and let more students take ownership, the event became far more successful. That 1000+ person dinner wouldn't have happened without trusting the committee and all the student helpers. Now I know that the best student leaders are often the ones working quietly behind the scenes, making sure everyone else succeeds.
Quote that helped you persevere through challenges?
"Setbacks are often just setups for second chances" - something my mentor says. Life loves throwing curveballs (literally and figuratively in my case), but those unexpected detours often lead to better destinations. When I thought my plans were completely derailed, they actually just got redirected toward something I never knew I needed.
One item to represent your time at HKU?
My softball glove and bat represent my 4 years of transformation, resilience, and unexpected triumph. When I first arrived at HKU, my hall didn't even have a softball team. By my final year, I was the key player leading us all the way to the championship finals. My glove caught everything from easy fly balls to game-winning hits, but more importantly, it caught my tears the day I sprained my ankle and thought my season was over. My bat delivered the victory we'd dreamed of for years. These aren't just pieces of sports equipment - they are symbols of the spirit of "strive for the best" and proof that sometimes the most beautiful stories come from refusing to give up when everyone expects you to.