Alfonso achieved the highest possible score of 45 in the IB Diploma. Having joined Tanglin in Year 9, he will now go on to study Law at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), where he has also been awarded a place on the prestigious HKU President's Scholars Programme. Here is Alfonso's story.  

Did you take IB or A levels?  

I took IB, studying Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, English Language & Literature, Spanish and Geography. I chose IB because I really valued the breadth of the curriculum. It allowed me to explore a wide range of subjects and develop different skills that will equip me well for any major that I would study at university. I particularly enjoyed the Extended Essay, as it gave me the freedom to research the subject and specific topic I was interested in. Another important factor was Spanish. I had really enjoyed the language and wanted to continue improving my proficiency during Sixth Form. 

Why did you choose the University of Hong Kong? What factors influenced that decision? 

After spending several years abroad, I wanted to be closer to my family while attending a globally respectable university. HKU has consistently ranked among the world's top 15 universities, so its strong reputation was certainly a major attraction. I was also impressed by its close connections with other prestigious universities, offering me valuable exchange opportunities in future. Receiving a very decent scholarship as well as being appointed HKU President's Scholar have made me feel valued by the university. In fact, HKU offered me places on three different majors, and I really appreciated the sincerity they showed in me. Finally, Hong Kong is a leading international financial centre, offering excellent opportunities for internships, networking and professional exposure. I look forward to spending a few years in this vibrant and happening city. 

Why did you choose to pursue Law, and what interests you most about the subject? 

Unlike many other people, I was drawn to Law not from watching Suits but from attending a couple of university summer programmes in different subjects, including dentistry, law and architecture, to find out what genuinely suited me. In the end, I realised that I enjoyed Law the most. I found analysing and comparing cases, participating in mooting exercises fascinating. To gain a better understanding of the profession, I also spoke with practising lawyers and took part in job shadowing programmes at both international law firms and local practices. Witnessing the day-to-day work and the workplace environments confirmed that law was the right path for me. 

What surprised you most during the university application process? If you could give one piece of advice to students currently applying to universities, what would it be? 

One thing that surprised me was that interviews didn't always feel as though they'd gone well. Sometimes after an interview, I thought my answers hadn’t been particularly coherent or polished. Looking back though, I realised that interviewers are often more interested in your thought processes than your final answer. They want to see how you approach unfamiliar questions, weigh different perspectives and arrive at a conclusion. In fact, I later found out that my interviewers had liked my answers more than I expected. 

What are you most looking forward to about university life? 

I look forward to joining various student societies and making the most out of my university life. I would like to continue my Spanish journey, so I'll join the Spanish club. I'd also love to try something different like rowing. I'm also excited about having opportunities to explore unfamiliar academic areas through taking electives. As I progress through my degree, I aim to develop an interesting and meaningful law sub-specialty. Additionally, as a President's Scholar, I'm thrilled about the opportunity to represent HKU at conferences, competitions and other international events. I think these experiences will be very memorable and unique.  

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time? 

I will be working at an international law firm, most likely in corporate law. I'd also like to be involved in pro bono cases to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds gain access to legal support. Outside of work, I hope to have started a family, and, if everything goes to plan, own a supercar!