University societies exist not only for students to develop their interests, but also to provide possible career paths for them in the future.

Miss Leang Po Ting, more commonly known as Siu Po, is a computer science
student at the Hong Kong University of
Science and Technology. Her major will
give her a competitive edge that will
guarantee success in a technological
world.

However, Siu Po finds the dance society
more meaningful.

“I learned modern dance in secondary school, but the classes were not regular or organized,” she said.

“I became a dance maniac only after joining the dance society,” said Siu Po.

She used to have great ambition in pursuing her studies. Now, however, dancing is her top priority.

“I have thought of applying for an exchange programme, but I finally gave up because I did not want to stop dancing with my friends,” said she.

“I admit that I have spent less time studying since joining the dance team.

“This is because it requires teamwork and I cannot demand others to adjust their time according to my will,” she said.

Although it is difficult to strike a balance between dancing and studying, Siu Po manages her time well and has maintained grades at the top of her class.

She was on the dean’s list during the second semester of Year 1 and her overall results were at an A-minus level.

“I think studying and dancing are equally important,” she said.

“I will finish all my tasks even if it means sacrificing my sleep,” she said.

Although there are many hardships, dancing provides Siu Po with unexpected and unforgettable experiences.

“Last summer my friends and I performed in a hair style show.

“I was shocked when they cut my hair like Cleopatra’s, the Egyptian Queen’s, and some hair at the back was dyed white,” she said.

People on the street stared at her and her parents were very upset.

“But it was worthwhile because our performance was good,” she said with a nice smile.

Family support is something that Siu Po treasures as she pursues her interests at the university.

“My family put me under lots of pressure at the beginning because I was occupied by dance.

“I could not always go back home or meet my friends on weekends.

“However, they realized that they could not change my mind, so they set me free,” said she.

In return for all of her sacrifices, she has gained a lot.

As a dance team member, she has performed in many commercial shows and dance performances.

As a Year 3 student, she now has to plan her future, however.

“I am not going to work as a dancer because I cannot neglect my parents.

“They think that dancers do not have a bright future and they want me to have a stable career,” Siu Po said.

“But I will continue to be a part-time dancer if I can.

“Dancing is not simply an interest that I pursue in my leisure time: It is part of my life,” said she.