Humans of LMP: Beatrice Wong

Each month we speak to a member of the Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology community and find out more about them as part of an initiative from our Wellness, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee (WIDE).

This month we feature Beatrice Wong, Graduate & Life Sciences Education Officer at LMP.

How long have you been at LMP and what does your role involve? 

I had previously worked for postgraduate and MHSc programs when I joined the department in 2022. My focus has shifted to graduate programs, specifically admission, program completion, program accreditation, awards, and stipends.  

What led you to pursue your current career path?   

I enjoy interacting with young people and people from diverse backgrounds. Working in an educational environment keeps me up to date.   

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?  

I spent the days reviewing program accreditations for Bachelor programs in Hong Kong, a Master's program, PGME in Family Medicine, and Family Medicine Enhanced Skills programs in Canada. In addition, I served as a project officer and core member at a university during a campus relocation exercise, where I oversaw sports facility planning, acquisition, installation, testing, and implementation. Not only have I accomplished much, but the teamwork over the years has been remarkable.  

What was the best career advice you ever received?   

Get it done. 

What has been an important learning experience in your life?  

During pregnancy, the fetal development is a miracle. I have no control over it, but it takes place inside the body. This experience has left me with lots of thoughts. 

Who is an influential person in your life and why? 

I learned from my mother, and she was a huge inspiration to me in many ways. She is always on my mind.  

What would surprise people to know about you? 

I enjoy scuba diving. I miss wreck diving and sea creatures underwater. Being a PADI instructor was my dream job. 

What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

Reading and cooking.

What is your favourite album, film and novel? 

Album: Christmas Jazz  

Film: Life is Beautiful directed by Roberto Benigni 

Novel: Blood Work: A Tale of Medicine & Murder in the Scientific Revolution by Holly Tucker and Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea by Barbara Demick.

Who would be your dream dinner guests? 

Jimmy Lai.

Where or what is your favourite place?

My favorite place is my home, which is a cozy place with family members. Hong Kong is my favorite city. It is a stunning city with iconic night views, as well as a modern city with historical buildings and stylish architecture, excellent restaurants, and numerous shopping malls. Most importantly, its distinct culture, vibe, daily behavior, and demeanor of Hong Kongers.  

If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?

I will bring pens and a journal. I can write stories and letters to my family and friends. The number of days I was stuck would also be visible to me.