“Be agile, courageous and resilient.”
– Phillip Lau, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Specialist in Finance (Co-op) candidate 2025, University of Toronto Scarborough
Congratulations to Phillip, our Management Co-op Student of the Year 2023! We sat down with Phillip to learn more about his university experience.
How would you describe the learning community at U of T Scarborough?
We all feel the spirit of unity and giving back. Our campus is filled with opportunities, providing so many pathways for students to leverage and excel. My experiences with the Department of Management, UTSC Athletics and various student clubs have developed me into the person I am now. I have gained valuable skills outside of the classroom including industry knowledge and leadership abilities. I feel grateful to have experienced U of T Scarborough's dedication to preparing students for both academic and career success.
What are your career aspirations and how will you leverage your degree to achieve them?
Being born and raised in Hong Kong, I have always been exposed to financial markets, which sparked my interest in that dynamic environment. The BBA program at U of T Scarborough has equipped me with fundamental principles, enriched my practical skills with industry resources provided by The BRIDGE, and strengthened my leadership abilities through involvement in student groups. Professionally, I am set to work in the finance industry and further my studies by completing various financial designations.
Favourite Management course?
MGEA06: Introduction to Macroeconomics: A Mathematical Approach, hands down. The course that built my foundation on assessing economic conditions and predicting market trends. Honestly, it set me up for a career in finance!
What are your next steps in terms of academics or co-op?
Building upon my prior co-op experience at CIBC and Citibank, this summer I will enter at co-op work term at HSBC Hong Kong. Academically, I look forward to completing more finance electives prior to my graduation in spring 2025.
Whose support are you most grateful for?
The professors I would like to thank are Bill Chau, Iris Au and Steven Riddiough. I am also grateful to Professor April Franco for including me on the departmental Sports Management Committee. They were not just my professors but also my mentors who have offered me support and insight from their personal experience and expertise. They are inspiring figures who have always empowered me to tackle obstacles and strive for excellence with confidence.
What are you most proud of when you reflect upon your experience at U of T?
Being a Portfolio Manager at the Student Managed Fund and the President of the Hong Kong Student Club. Managing the fund was a remarkable experience which had the most influential impact on my career trajectory, and being a leader of a student group has shaped me to be agile, courageous and resilient.