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FOR STUDENTS
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FOR STUDENTS
"One of the best decisions I made at the beginning of my university life"
Andy Chan
Team Peace, Cohort 2023
"A deeper understanding of what it means to live a fulfilling life"
Dicky Wong
Team Integrity, Cohort 2022
Hear Our Student Stories
One of the best decisions I made at the beginning of my university life
Joining Lead for Life was one of the best decisions I made at the beginning of my university life. Transitioning into university can be intimidating but Lead for Life provided me with a supportive and harmonious environment, complete with mentors and friends who made the transition feel safe and helped me prepare for the journey ahead.
Helped me step out of my comfort zone to foster new relationships
Lead for Life has helped me improve myself significantly. As a shy and introverted person, the program has helped me step out of my comfort zone and seize opportunities to foster new relationships. I have grown in confidence and can now seamlessly converse during interviews and with new people in internships without the jitters I used to get. I hope to continue growing and experiencing self-improvement in the coming years.
Got to know more friends, who I really like and can get along with sincerely
In the past I cared a lot about career and academic results, treating these as my only pursuits in university life. After joining Lead for Life, I learnt that I should cherish other aspects of my life, especially my family. I’ve got to know more friends, who I really like and can get along with sincerely. Lead for Life provides rare opportunities for us to discuss deeper topics and I look forward to deepening friendships with my mentors and teammates in the coming year.
Equipped me with the mindset and skills to face adversity
The past year has presented no shortage of challenges, both professionally and personally. Lead for Life equipped me with the mindset and skills to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and maintain a positive, solutions-oriented approach even in the face of adversity. I learned to reframe obstacles as opportunities for growth, celebrate small wins, and draw strength from my support network. This resilience will be crucial as I take on greater responsibilities and face increasingly complex problems in the future.
Challenged me to critically evaluate my values, beliefs, and biases
My interactions with peers and mentors in Lead for Life have challenged me to critically evaluate my values, beliefs, and biases, enabling me to develop a more inclusive and compassionate leadership style. The program has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, take risks, and view failure as an opportunity for growth. I also learned the importance of prioritizing the needs of others and using my skills to contribute meaningfully to society. Leadership is not about personal recognition but about uplifting and empowering those around me.
A much-needed opportunity to focus on my personal and professional development
As a busy university student, Lead for Life has provided a much-needed opportunity to focus on my personal and professional development. One of the key benefits of the program has been the chance to connect with the other mentors and mentees. It has been wonderful to meet this community of like-minded individuals who are also striving to grow their leadership capabilities. Through our discussions and collaborative activities, I feel that we are truly supporting one another on this journey.
Deeply resonates with my own self-improvement journey
When I first discovered the program through a recommendation from a fellow student, I was drawn to its emphasis on character development, especially given my experiences from an exam-focused education system. I realized the significance of holistic personal character development beyond mere academic accomplishments. Understanding that character is fundamental to what we can achieve aligned perfectly with my aspiration to lead others toward a better future. I've gained valuable insights into character leadership and the integration of intellectual understanding with practical application and emotional growth that resonates deeply with my own self-improvement journey.
Really shown me what it means to flourish
My mentors are incredibly kind and generous, and the way they manage to connect personal success with the ability to stay connected with their communities and cultivating selflessness has really shown me what it means to flourish. In university, it’s very common to be focused merely on achieving the best grades, the best internships, the best job opportunities, and it’s a very tricky mindset. Lead for Life has helped me bounce back from that sense of relentless ambition and add serving others to my goals for success.
A deeper understanding of what it means to lead a fulfilling life
As I explore the concept of flourishing, I envision a life where I am continuously learning, growing, and making a positive impact on others. This involves finding a harmonious balance between my personal and professional pursuits, nurturing meaningful relationships, and contributing to the well-being of my community. Lead for Life has provided me opportunities to learn from the experiences and insights of others, broadening my perspective, challenging my assumptions, and developing a deeper understanding of what it means to lead a fulfilling life.
Comforted me a lot, particularly during times of stress
My mentor group has helped me understand character leadership and how I can flourish. We chat about our life experiences, and despite coming from different backgrounds, we can still resonate with each other in some ways. This fosters compassion and kindness, as we respect and pay attention to each other, allowing an exchange of ideas and special bonds to form. The stories shared have taught me that I shouldn't limit my views or be anxious about trivial daily matters. This comforted me a lot, particularly during times of stress.
Helped me learn to encourage and accept myself, growing in confidence
In the past, I used to belittle myself and view myself in a negative light, which led to a lack of self-confidence. Since joining L4L, I’ve experienced a warm and encouraging atmosphere in every gathering. Even when I share incomplete or imperfect passages due to nervousness, I feel that the mentors and group members are willing to listen with tolerance and affirmation. This has helped me learn to encourage and accept myself, growing in confidence.
A supportive group of like-minded peers who’ve become close friends
Through Lead for Life, I’ve met a supportive group of like-minded peers who’ve become close friends. Hearing their problem-solving approaches has been incredibly enlightening. Their sharing encourages me to think outside the box in ways I’d never considered before. I'm now actively practicing how to assess situations calmly and to identify steps forward. Lead for Life has planted the seeds for this growth, and I’m committed to nurturing them.
Growing to be the best I can be
In my first year with Lead for Life, I’ve already learned a lot about myself. The program encourages self-reflection, helping me to understand how my actions and thoughts affect events, whether positive or negative. This has allowed me to make better decisions for the future. I look forward to the journey ahead, knowing more about myself through deeper reflection to continue growing to be the best I can be.
Helped me relate better to others with empathy
My journey with Lead for Life has taught me that being a good leader is about more than just accomplishing tasks. It's about who you are and how you handle yourself. I've learned the importance of resilience. My ability to bounce back from difficulties, such as improving my grades, has grown significantly. Additionally, I've come to appreciate the value of empathy. Interacting with different people in Lead for Life has helped me relate better to others, particularly members from my family and society.
I have become more compassionate and considerate
One of the key aspects that contributed to my growth in Lead for Life was the sharing of personal experiences by my peers. Listening to their stories and being able to resonate with their challenges and triumphs helped me develop empathy and understanding. This experience made me realize the importance of embracing diversity and appreciating the unique journeys we all undertake. I can connect better with others and have become more compassionate and considerate towards different perspectives.
Enhanced my ability to lead effectively
Throughout the Lead for Life orientation, we participated in a variety of team-building activities that required communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. Through these, I grasped the significance of active listening, empathy, and adaptability. I discovered the power of building strong relationships and fostering a positive team dynamic, which ultimately enhanced my ability to lead effectively.
Made me a more thoughtful and inclusive leader
Lead for Life has challenged me to truly listen to and understand others. Whether it's my teammates, the communities I serve, or people with vastly different backgrounds and experiences, I'm better able to recognise their unique needs, motivations, and perspectives. This empathy allows me to communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and make more informed and compassionate decisions. It has made me a more thoughtful and inclusive leader.
My understanding of leadership has significantly evolved
My understanding of leadership has significantly evolved this semester. Previously, I associated the concept of leadership with self-confidence, pride, and honour. However, I now realize that character leadership is more about being a servant leader who utilises empathy, communication, and self-awareness as powerful tools to foster flourishing relationships.
A profound journey of self-discovery and growth
My Lead for Life experience has been a profound journey of self-discovery and growth. By focusing on developing essential character leadership qualities such as friendliness, courage, and gratitude, and by engaging in activities that challenge and inspire me, I am confident that I will continue flourishing as a leader. The journey ahead holds great promise for further growth, and I am excited to embrace the opportunities that await.
Bringing my vision of flourishing closer to reality
My perspective on flourishing goes beyond success or happiness. It's about achieving a harmonious balance in life, where personal growth, relationships, and contributions to society all thrive. My vision of a flourishing life includes continuous learning, meaningful relationships, and significant community impact. Lead for Life has been instrumental in bringing this vision closer to reality. I've learned to value different perspectives, foster deeper connections with peers, and understand the importance of giving back to the community.
Limited Spaces, Apply Now!
LEAD9001. Lead for Life is a 6-credit, free elective course offered over two years, open to full-time undergraduates from all faculties and degree programmes. Applications to join the new Cohort 2025 will open in August. After the first round, shortlisted students will be invited to the second round of the application process in mid-September. Acceptance notifications will be sent to successful applicants by the end of September. Spaces are limited, apply now!
Application Step 1: 5 August-14 September 2025
Application Step 2: 15-21 September 2025
Announcement of Acceptance Results: by 26 September 2025
Orientation Weekend Launch: 4-5 October 2025 (mandatory*)
Completion Ceremony: April 2027
*Students must attend both days of the Orientation or will be dropped from the course.
Limited Spaces, Apply Now!
LEAD9001. Lead for Life is a 6-credit, free elective course offered over two years, open to full-time undergraduates from all faculties and degree programmes. Applications to join the new Cohort 2025 will open in August. After the first round, shortlisted students will be invited to the second round of the application process in mid-September. Acceptance notifications will be sent to successful applicants by the end of September. Spaces are limited, apply now!
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Application Step 1: 5 August-14 September 2025
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Application Step 2: 15-21 September 2025
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Announcement of Acceptance Results: by 26 September 2025
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Orientation Weekend Launch: 4-5 October 2025 (mandatory*)
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Completion Ceremony: April 2027
*Students must attend both days of the Orientation or will be dropped from the course.
The Two-Year Journey: Growing as a Leader of Character
LEAD9001. Lead for Life is a 6-credit, free elective course offered over two years, open to full-time undergraduates from all faculties and degree programmes. We are a vibrant community for exploring character and leadership growth. Here, students find belonging in an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment that fosters wellness. We empower students to develop practical skills, build resilience, and explore meaningful career pathways in alignment with our commitment to whole person development.
We welcome full-time HKU undergraduates from all faculties and degree programmes. Each student joins a mentor group team of about ten students from varied faculties, nationalities, and backgrounds, guided by two mentors who are industry and community leaders in Hong Kong. Applicants commit to a two-year engagement, which means final-year students are not eligible to join.
All students must attend the Orientation Weekend Launch. Beyond the orientation, we offer multiple opportunities and flexible pathways that integrate smoothly with the academic calendar for fulfilling the remaining course components. Students planning an exchange abroad can arrange to complete the in-person requirements while at HKU, while many of the Practice Modules and Assessments may be done regardless of location.
Lead for Life students
Lead for Life students may access the Resource Library and Student e-Portal for support on your character leadership journey with us.
The Two-Year Journey: Growing as a Leader of Character
LEAD9001. Lead for Life is a 6-credit, free elective course offered over two years, open to full-time undergraduates from all faculties and degree programmes. We are a vibrant community for exploring character and leadership growth. Here, students find belonging in an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment that fosters wellness. We empower students to develop practical skills, build resilience, and explore meaningful career pathways in alignment with our commitment to whole person development.
We welcome full-time HKU undergraduates from all faculties and degree programmes. Each student joins a mentor group of about ten students from varied faculties, nationalities, and backgrounds, guided by two mentors who are industry and community leaders in Hong Kong. Applicants commit to a two-year engagement, which means final-year students are not eligible to join.
All students must attend the Orientation Weekend Launch. Beyond the orientation, we offer multiple opportunities and flexible pathways that integrate smoothly with the academic calendar for fulfilling the remaining course components. Students planning an exchange abroad can arrange to complete the in-person requirements while at HKU, while many of the Practice Modules and Assessments may be done regardless of location.
Lead for Life Students
Lead for Life students may access the Resource Library and Student e-Portal for support on your character leadership journey with us.
1. Orientation Weekend Launch (OWL)
Duration: 2 days
Overview:
Day 1: Immerse yourself in a full day of interactive learning, team bonding, and engaging activities with your mentor group.
Day 2: Attend an evening High Table Dinner – a cherished HKU tradition that unites students, mentors, and guests in celebration of community and learning.
Completion:
Attendance of both days is mandatory, and submission of a Learning Contract after. Failure to complete will result in being dropped from the course. Please confirm your availability for the orientation before applying.
2. Character Leadership University Experience (CLUE)
Duration: 2 days
Overview:
Engage in integrative learning sessions and take part in a Campus Amazing Race team challenge. Guided discussions and reflective sessions will help you bridge theory and practice, equipping you with essential character leadership skills for your life at HKU and beyond.
Completion:
Offered five times throughout the two-year journey, with sessions scheduled during the reading weeks and the summer. You just need to take this at any one time. Attendance of both days is compulsory.
3. Group Learning Activity Days (GLAD)
Duration: 2 half-days of workshops, plus own mentor group team gatherings
Overview:
Choose from a variety of workshops that explore topics ranging from personal growth to academic success and career development. These will be attended with your mentor group team.
Completion:
Workshop days will be held once per semester on a Saturday. Students should attend at least two workshop days throughout the two-year journey. For mentor group team gatherings, the more effort you invest, the greater the rewards you can cultivate. Although we have suggested dates for your mentor gatherings on our calendar to help you plan, you are welcome to schedule meetings at other times that better suit your team.
1. Personalised Leadership & Character Enrichment (PLACE)
Duration:
Approximately 20 hours
Overview:
Enrich your journey with tailored opportunities that support your personal, academic, and professional growth. Benefit from mentoring connections with our Lead for Life Friends Community – which may include HKU faculty, alumni, local community leaders, and global partners. Additionally, access to a curated library of self-learning resources to inspire deeper reflection and growth.
2. Encouragement & Support Check-Ins (ESC)
Duration:
Approximately 20 hours
Overview:
Stay connected with your mentor group team throughout the two-year journey. Spark meaningful conversations, cultivate lasting friendships, and share support as you navigate life’s challenges. Our Lead for Life mentors are volunteers who generously give their time and effort to invest in you. Their commitment to you is free but it is not cheap. What they give in investing in your life is invaluable. We ask that you honour them by bringing something equally important to the mentoring relationship – your wholehearted participation. Overall, students are expected to connect with their mentors at least twice per semester.
3. Character Leadership in Practice (CLIP)
Duration:
Approximately 20 hours
Overview:
Engage with real-world community issues, both locally and globally. You can start where you are – within your academic groups, student organizations or accommodations, or local neighborhoods. Then, extend your impact abroad while on learning trips or study exchange. Contribute to wellness initiatives that help others thrive, making positive impact and a meaningful difference in the world.
Course Grading
The course adopts a pass/fail grading system. The credits and grade (pass/fail) shall be shown on student transcripts but shall not be included in the calculation of GPA and honours classification. Assessment is based 100% on coursework.
Note: For credit load calculation, the 6 credits will be distributed as 1.5 credits per semester over four semesters. Upon successful completion of the course at the end of the second year, second semester, the credits will be reflected on your transcripts.
1. Mentor Observation Review (MORE)
Overview:
Mentor group mentors will provide feedback on each student’s engagement with their team, categorising it as either satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Satisfactory engagement is demonstrated by attendance of events, promptly responding to check-ins and mentor group team discussions, and meaningfully contributing to a thriving mentor community.
2. Community Observation Review (CORE)
Overview:
Students will nominate two community leaders to provide character testimonials on their role in community leadership. These testimonials would highlight the student’s initiative, impact, and the character qualities they exhibit in enhancing community wellness, with satisfactory leadership reflected in proactive and positive contributions.
3. Creative Action Portfolio (CAP)
Overview:
Students will submit a Creative Action Portfolio that synthesizes their learning and highlights their growth across transformative themes from their evolving journey as leaders of character. The portfolio can be presented in a variety of creative formats that demonstrate the integration, application, and communication of learning in real-world contexts.
Apply now to join Lead for Life Cohort 2025!
(Course code: LEAD9001. Lead for Life)
Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity! Join Lead for Life and take the next step towards flourishing as a leader of character. Spaces are limited – apply now to secure your spot!