Webpage for New Students

【You See Vitality】Saunter for pleasure, or stop for a fine view along the streams. The finest one is at the start of your walk.

The College encourages students to strike a well balance between academic studies and non-formal education activities. The College hopes that students can actively participate and organise activities.  Every year, the College Student Union forms Organising Committee to plan for four large-scaled student activities, including Orientation Camp, Anniversary Student Activities, Singing Contest and UC Bun. Through these activities, it is expected that student can learn to cooperate with peers, improve their communication and time management skills, enhance their leadership, and increase their sense of belongings to United College.

The College Orientation Camp is held in late August every year. Through the four-day-three-night camp, the Organising Committee aims at helping freshmen to understand university life and establish networks. Through a series of mass games and theme activities, they can gain knowledge in the College and reflect on the role of university students and plan for their undergraduate studies. 

“Although the orientation camp is often said to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as I approach my fourth orientation camp, it still gives me a different feeling. Three years later, I became the President of the orientation camp. Looking back at myself when I first joined the College, I was still a freshman who knew nothing about here. I am grateful to the seniors who brought me into this big family. They made me feel a different kind of youth and passion, starting my exciting university life from the orientation camp. I hope future freshmen can have fun at the orientation camp, find friends and partners for the next four years, and continue to discover places that suit them in the college, making the most of their youth.”
– MAK Chung Yu (GLSD/Year 3)

“The orientation camp is an important milestone that marks my beginning of a new chapter in university life. It was the first time I had fun after graduating from high school and completing the DSE. Whether it was the meticulously prepared activities by the organising committee, or the bonds formed with group leaders and facilitators, they all left a significant mark on my university life. Four years in university are neither a long nor short period, different of us may pursue different things throughout these four years. Some may want to have top-notch grades while some may want a flourishing University life. No matter what you are looking for, I hope you will gain some insights after these four days of camp.”
– YU Chun Wing (COMM/ Year 5)

The College Anniversary Student Activities are held in mid-October every year. Main activities include UC Run, Open Bazzar, Birthday Party and Feast for a thousand, etc. Apart from students, College stakeholders, such as College Trustees, staff and alumni will join the celebration to share the joy and celebrate College’s Anniversary.

“United College provided me with rare opportunities to work and cooperate with other students in different occasions. I participated in the UC 62nd Anniversary Celebration activities when I was a freshman, which brought me unforgettable experience of building up a ‘ghost house’ in a team using different interesting materials and tools. I have also joined UC Cantonese Debating Team in my second and third year. I can fully utilise my potential and experience in the inter-college debate tournament. In my university life, the most valuable memories are all related to UC!”
– Ho Ho Cheung (23/GRMD)

The College Singing Contest is held around February every year. Through the contest and guest performance, the Organising Committee aims at providing opportunities to students to show their talents and organising a cultural activity in good quality. Other than solo and group singing, the Organising Committee also invites student associations to join the contest for adding more fun.

“Students at United College are very engaged in university life, as the College actively provides countless opportunities for them to explore and develop their interests. A large variety of opportunities and experiences have provided me with a chance to develop myself in positive ways. It is an undeniable fact that United College Singing Contest 2025 was a huge success for me. I enjoyed taking on key leading roles and, most importantly, making new friends all around the College. Furthermore, the success of the event was due to all my organising committee members, and I appreciate their efforts from the bottom of my heart. I hope they will gain more experience from future events, and I look forward to seeing them shine in the future.”
– HO Tsz Chun (NURS/Year 3)

UC Bun is held in March every year. Through a week’s activities, the Organising Committee aims at organising creative group activities and mass games. Every year, the theme and game formats will be different. It is hoped that the event will help to relieve the students’ study pressure with a relaxing, joyful, and friendly atmosphere.

“Reflecting on the past three years, one of the most memorable aspects of university life has been the UCBUN, held annually from January to March. While there are countless events in Colleges and even at CUHK, UCBUN stands out as a world we may have fantasised about since childhood. To create this world, you can always meet friends who accompany you – whether it’s for late-night snacks, beach outings, or watching the sunrise –  creating moments that are uniquely ours.”
– Seto Yi (25/TRAN)

There are five student hostels in United College, Adam Schall Residence, Bethlehem Hall, Hang Seng Hall, Chan Chun Ha Hostel, and the newly opened Choi Kai Yau Hostel for the upcoming academic year. Together, they offer a total of 1,538 hostel places, allowing nearly half of the College’s students to live on campus. The College is situated on a beautiful campus and some hostel rooms are facing the Tolo Harbour.  The five student hostels have their unique characteristics and culture, students can choose their suitable one.  All students are given the opportunity to stay in student hostels for at least one year during their studies.

Sharing from Residents

“Adam Schall Residence is the hostel with the longest history in United College. It is also known as the most fun and liveliest hostel. Every night, you will see residents hanging out in the common areas. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, such as chatting, playing board games, table tennis, and more! If you are looking to make friends who will accompany you throughout your university journey, Adam Schall Residence is definitely the place to be.”

KU Marco (QFRMN/Year 2)

“Welcome, new students! We are here to give you a lively, cozy, and diversified hall life. From festive gatherings and formal dinners to chill floor gatherings and dessert hangouts, there is something for everyone. We are all about making BHall feel like home, no matter where you are from. So, let’s create amazing memories together!”

HUANG Yue (ELEDN/Year 2)

Thanks to our culturally diverse community, residents of Chan Chun Ha Hostel have the opportunity to connect with friends from all corners of the globe. Whether you seek relaxation or fun with friends, hostel life caters to these needs. Additionally, the residents’ association hosts year-round activities, including Orientation Week, Singing Contest, Valentine’s Day Activity, etc. Residents can expand their social networks while enjoying a rich university experience.

LAM Wing Chun Winston (IBBA/Year 3)

“Living in Hang Seng Hall, you will discover that a hostel is more than just a place to rest—it is also a space to study, participate in group activities, and make new friends. Monthly events, both large and small, offer residents opportunities to get involved. From the annual High Table Dinner in March and Orientation Month in September to the monthly Sweet Soup Nights, these activities allow residents to fully experience the richness of hostel life, expand their social circles, and enrich their university journey. A hostel is more than just a place to stay—it becomes everyone’s ‘home’.”
KWONG Tsz Hin (GRMDN/Year 2)

Students can join different student bodies like the United College Student Union and affiliated student bodies, including different Resident Associations, Non-residential Halls, different interest groups and departmental societies. There are over 20 organisations involved, which are all self-administered on a yearly re-election basis, striving for better benefits for their members and organising various non-formal educational activities for College students. Their interest widely spread across academic, cultural and arts, sports, and music.

Sharing from student leaders

“On the UC Debate Team’s social media, the phrase ‘UC Debate Team is our home’ caught my attention. Initially, I dismissed it as a clichéd slogan, but over time, it has come to encapsulate my experience with the team. Throughout the year, we participated in more than ten games, both large and small. In the days leading up to each competition, I spent more time with my teammates than with my own family. Our brainstorming sessions were endless, fueled by heartwarming snacks from one another. Even when disagreements arose, laughter followed after every game. UC Debate Team truly feels like our home—a place where we find belonging, even in precarious situations.”
– Mok Ka Man (2025/NURS)

“Singing along to popular songs with friends while participating in the UC Choir was the most memorable Tuesday I have ever had in my undergraduate study. UC Choir provides hours of relaxation and rejuvenation, free from academic pressures, as we sing Christmas carols, hallelujahs, and other popular English songs. My favorite moments involve singing with my heart and enjoying life, especially when I’m surrounded by my peers. When I sing well and project a beautiful melody, I feel a sense of accomplishment. And when we harmonise correctly, the resulting sound is both effective and sweet.”
– Thomas Yeung (IERG/Year 4)

“It is a fruitful experience to be one of the members of the United College Cantonese Debating Team this year. I was given many chances to polish my debating skills and learn new things, ranging from local issues like the Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme to global issues like Catalonia’s bid for independence. Thanks to United College for being so supportive during the difficult time during COVID-19.”
– Choy Tsz Ying Christy (25/LAWS)

“I am truly happy and honoured to have the opportunity to be one of the members of United College. I was a person who put personal success before the community’s cooperation. However, many events and activities we have done helped me to completely change my perspectives and philosophy. The language improvement project offered by United college not only helped me to improve my English but gave me great opportunities to meet friends from diverse cultures. Also, UC United Club (UCUC) gave me duty as a treasurer and this made me feel more responsible. I really appreciated learning how to get along with others, how to admit the differences, and how to respect others. I will be contributing more to United college as a bridge through which many students can communicate in CUHK. I am looking forward to embarking upon our new adventure in CUHK.”
– Seok Sangwoo (25/ECON)

“Across the two years of membership, the United College has been nothing but a supportive presence. From the moment I entered the college toastmasters club to finally having the courage to assume the president role, the college never ceased showing up and offering guidance when necessary, striving to build rapport with students. Without their encouragement, I would never have envisioned myself as a leader. Apart from inspiring me to lead, the staff also go the extra mile to unleash my potential in other fields of interest. Opportunities are often within grasp.  All you have to do is look closely and embrace them.”
– Charlotte Ip (23/TRAN)

“When we first joined the UC Multimedia Production Team, we lacked experience in film production. However, fueled by our enthusiasm for creating videos, we gradually acquired knowledge about shooting techniques and gained experience through repeated participation in various shoots. Despite my limited background in film production, I had the opportunity to shoot a promotional video for the college. I was involved in every aspect, from scriptwriting to filming and post-production. This experience significantly deepened my understanding of film production, and I aspire to create even higher-quality videos through the lens.”
– Wong Miranda Toledo (BCHE/Year 3)

The College has established two non-residential halls, Pak Chuen Hall and Ping Fan Hall, to offer resting places and organise various activities for non-resident students of United College.  Thanks to these two halls, non-resident students can also enjoy a fulfilling college experience.

Sharing from Non-residents

“Pak Chuen Hall welcomes all non-residential students from United College to spend their free time here. We offer activities such as billiards, board games, and PS5 for students to enjoy. A series of events will also be held for non-residential students, including a bazaar, orientation week, and handicraft month. We hope all non-residential students can make the most of their university life during their free time. Pak Chuen Hall welcomes you to visit anytime!”
– WONG Chi Ngai (PACCN /Year 2)

“As a non-resident member of Ping Fan Hall, you can fully immerse yourself in our vibrant hall culture. We organise a variety of events throughout the year to foster friendship and create unforgettable memories. One of the highlights is the Ping Mun Banquet, a lively Lunar New Year celebration featuring a traditional poonchoi feast, games, and lucky draws. Another key event is the High Table Dinner, where participants dress up for an evening of elegant dining, inspiring speeches, and hall bonding. We also host workshops on diverse topics, from creative arts to practical skills, offering fun and learning opportunities. For sports enthusiasts, Ping Fan Hall actively participates in inter-hall competitions, including football, basketball, and other sports. Whether you are a player or a supporter, these events bring everyone together in a spirit of teamwork and excitement.”
– CHU Yan Chi (BAJDN/Year2)