CW Chu College The Chinese University of Hong Kong eNewsletter

As part of the celebration of the College Founders' Day, this High Table Dinner was attended by members of the Committee of Overseers and other College guests, in addition to more than 200 students. Professor Frederick Ma, Former Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, shared with participants the three stages of his life; he lived with no regrets, and would do it all over again.

Growing up in a small public housing unit, Fred Ma and his family members had to share facilities the washroom and the kitchen with neighbours. Because of the poor living condition, he learnt interpersonal skills, and how to be disciplined. More importantly, he learnt how to appreciate life, 'When I achieved something, I said to myself, what a wonderful world we are living in, because I have gone through some tough time.'

In 1976, Fred Ma was offered a job in the headquarters of Chase Manhattan Bank in New York. He had a very tough boss who gave him a hard time. He had to work every weekend, and this kind of life lasted a year or so. But he was willing to face the challenges; he impressed his boss by his efforts and outstanding performance, and eventually won a promotion.

In 2002, Professor Ma gave up his very well paid job and joined the Hong Kong Government as Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury. As he was not a seasoned politician, he encountered many problems. However, he determined to repay the society and stayed in public service for six years. Some of the policies he put in place during that period have made Hong Kong better. He encouraged students of CW Chu College, 'Life is all about challenges. Your willingness to overcome all these challenges will be part of your precious experience. '

The Third High Table Dinner 2014–15

The College held its third High Table Dinner of the academic year on 7 January 2015. The guest of honour on the occasion was Professor Adrian Dixon, Master of Peterhouse, University of Cambridge, and he spoke on 'Aspects of Peterhouse: The oldest College in Cambridge'.

Founded in 1284, Peterhouse, the oldest college in Cambridge, houses an intellectual community of some 45 Fellows, 260 undergraduates and 110 graduate students. Apart from the graduate students, the profile is very similar to CW Chu College. Professor Dixon introduced the features of Peterhouse, including its architecture features, its distinguished members and alumni through the ages, as well as dinner gatherings at the College. Through the communal life at College, students are able to mix socially and academically, and make close friends with fellow students from different majors, thereby broadening their minds and knowledge. Students are also enthusiastic about representing the College in intercollegiate competitions. Professor Dixon appreciated generous support from Peterhouse alumni, such as their contributions to the construction of new buildings, and mentoring students. He encouraged students of CW Chu College to contribute to the College and CUHK in the future.