HKBU Alumna Ailsa Yuen Chui-ying (Pharmacy in Chinese Medicine)

The BUddy Post reporter has interviewed Ailsa Yuen Chui-ying, an alumna of Pharmacy in Chinese Medicine, who would share with us her passion for Chinese medicine as well as her learning experience and many more.

Reporter: Could you tell us something about yourself?

Ailsa: I obtained my Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) in Chinese Medicine in 2006 at Hong Kong Baptist University. Currently working as the Assistant Scientific Officer of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, I mainly focus on the research and development of pharmaceutical chemistry and Chinese medicinal products as well as the testing of Chinese medicinal herbs and their related products. In addition, I am serving as the Director of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Industry Association – Chinese Medicine Professional Committee for 2011-2013. The Association aims at promoting the development of Chinese medicine, enhancing public awareness towards Chinese medicine and increasing the international recognition and professional status of Chinese medicine in the society.

Reporter:Why did you choose Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) in Chinese Medicine as your major of study at HKBU? What is the curriculum of the programme?

Ailsa: In fact, I have originally chosen Environmental Science as my major of study. Yet, I was really impressed by the state-of-the-art laboratory facilities at the School of Chinese Medicine when I first visited HKBU. Apart from the advanced technology and facilities, I was also attracted by its small-class teaching at the School. Therefore, I eventually changed my mind and pursued my career in the field of pharmacy in Chinese medicine.

The Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) in Chinese Medicine at HKBU is the only full-time undergraduate pharmacy programme funded by University Grants Committee in Hong Kong. The programme has been successfully launched for 12 years and it encompasses a study of pharmaceutical science of both Chinese Materia Medica and Western pharmacy. We need to take professional courses in Chinese medicine, fundamental and basic theories of Chinese medicine, as well as some basic biomedical sciences such as Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. Apart from classroom learning, the School provides ample opportunities for us to gain other learning experience via internship and practicum training. I still reminisced about my first visit at Fairylake Botanical Garden in Shenzhen during Year 1. During summer of year 3, my classmates and I were doing supervised practicum in pharmaceutical plants, botanical gardens and hospitals in the Mainland to broaden our horizons and enrich our hands-on knowledge.

Reporter: Any networking activities amongst the alumni of Pharmacy in Chinese Medicine?

Ailsa: Each year we have about 15 graduates from the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) in Chinese Medicine, and up till now, we have over 100 graduates. With a view to strengthening ties amongst the current students and the alumni, we have built up a very strong network and have organised an array of extracurricular activities. The Society of Chinese Materia Medica also organises various large-scale activities to allow students to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese Materia Medica. These activities comprise Chinese medicine exhibitions, Hong Kong Flower Show and exchange tours. What’s more, the alumni have regular reunion activities such as hiking and herbs appreciation, playing badminton and participating in gatherings organised by the School of Chinese Medicine to maintain close connection amongst all graduates.

Reporter: What do you think of the development of pharmacy in Chinese medicine in Hong Kong?

Ailsa: The development of pharmacy in Chinese medicine in Hong Kong is indeed quite challenging in light of the existing policy and registration system. I believe that Hong Kong needs to make reference to the mechanism in the Mainland to foster internationalisation and professionalism in Chinese medicine. I look very much forward to the emergence of the professional qualification of “Chinese Medicine Pharmacist” in Hong Kong in the future.

Reporter: What are the career prospects of graduates of Pharmacy in Chinese Medicine?

Ailsa: In fact, the prospects of the graduates are very broad and the types of work vary.The majority of them work in the pharmaceutical science of Chinese Materia Medica in private and public sectors including Department of Health, laboratories and pharmaceutical plants. Some of them have even become teachers. Most importantly, as I recall, Associate Dean of the School of Chinese Medicine Prof. Zhao Zhongzhen reminded us that we could engage in any jobs, except for manufacturing fake medicine.

Reporter: What are the prerequisites to become a good practitioner of pharmacy in Chinese medicine?

Ailsa: Like any other professions, having a passion for pharmacy in Chinese medicine is the most crucial element. I strongly believe that passion is a motivation for one to move on and develop their potential to the fullest. Having a keen interest in Chinese Materia Medica is also a must. Historically, the traditional Chinese medicine covers a broad range of medical practices which have been developed for over thousands of years. There are millions of categories and functions of different medicinal herbs that we have to remember daily. Sheer memorisation is definitely not the way. Having a strong interest in a specific area and an eagerness to learn would definitely help you excel further in the arena of pharmacy in Chinese medicine. All in all, it is important to have a heart for life-long learning in the area you are interested to develop.

Reporter: What advice would you give to HKBU students?

Ailsa: I think the golden rule is to pursue and develop your own interests. If you do not know what you are really interested in, you would lose your direction and could hardly accomplish any goals.

Interviewee’s Profile:

Graduated from the School of Chinese Medicine with a major in Pharmacy in Chinese Medicine in 2006, alumna Ailsa Yuen Chui-ying is currently working as the Assistant Scientific Officer of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. She is also serving as the Director of Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Industry Association - Chinese Medicine Professional Committee for 2011-2013, which aims at promoting the development of Chinese medicine as well as enhancing the international recognition of Chinese medicine.