Meet JYU alumni: Kwok Ng
Docent Kwok Ng, PhD is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Turku, a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Limerick, and a Chief Scientist at Lithuanian Sports University.
His previous education includes a Double Degree Master’s in Sport & Exercise Psychology which he earned from the University of Thessaly in Greece and the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥. At JYU, he studied in the Master's Degree Programme in Psychology of Physical Activity, Health and Well-being (PsyAct). Following this, he continued his education at the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥ and earned his PhD in Adapted Physical Activity.
Learning from inspiring researchers
Known as the sports capital of Finland, Jyväskylä has a lot to offer anyone interested in sports and exercise, especially those who are eager to pursue their education in this field.
When Kwok Ng applied to JYU, he was eager to study in a city where he could get immersed in sports and physical activity, as well as learn from inspiring researchers in his areas of interest. While the decision between staying in the UK versus coming to Finland for his master’s was not an easy one, it was one that led to great experiences and unexpected opportunities.
From industry to academia
Before beginning his studies at JYU in 2008, Kwok Ng worked in sports development in the UK. While he enjoyed this type of work, he wanted to further his education in this area and gain professional qualifications.
When Kwok was applying to JYU, he found that it ticked all the boxes compared to other options and liked that the programme was two years instead of only one. He thought that two years provided more time to reflect on learning experiences, as well as to decide where to go and what to do after his master’s. Though he initially thought he would return to the UK after his degree to work at the London 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, he ultimately chose to continue his education at JYU and pursue a PhD.
Involvement from day one
As soon as Kwok Ng moved to Jyväskylä, he knew he wanted to be involved in the sports community right away, particularly in volleyball. By immersing himself into volleyball, he not only got to know more about the sport itself but also surrounding areas in Central Finland, including Muurame, a town just outside of Jyväskylä, where Kwok coached a team.
Not only was coaching and supporting a team a great experience for him, but it kept him busy throughout the wintertime. During the darker months of winter, having a regular and consistent schedule of activities can be very beneficial to keep busy, motivated, and connected with a community.
While joining a sport is a great option, students can also find a hobby group, try a new activity, or join an organization to stay connected throughout all the seasons!
Compassionate and supportive faculty
While many good things came to mind when asked about academic highlights, JYU’s professors were at the top of the list for Kwok Ng. He recalls his professors being very passionate about their subjects and areas of expertise, as well as being very supportive. They were compassionate, good at listening, and comforting, and ultimately became mentors for Kwok throughout the duration of his studies.
Professors were compassionate, good at listening, and comforting.
In particular, his master’s and PhD supervisor Emeritus Professor Pauli Rintala was extremely helpful as he guided him through topics and even worked with him throughout his retirement. Another professor, Emerita Professor Taru Lintunen, had attended a conference in Greece with Kwok, and upon mentioning that JYU would also be the right place for this conference too, she worked with Kwok to host the symposium the following year.
These were the kinds of experiences and support which helped shape his decision to stay in Finland.
The sense of community at JYU comes from both staff and fellow students
It is not only faculty members that provide a sense of community here at JYU, but also its students. In fact, the first person you meet here in Jyväskylä is likely to be a student — Your tutor!
Tutors are current JYU students who help new students get settled in by introducing them to student life and helping with practical matters. Whether it be giving a tour of JYU’s campus, helping you open a bank account, or finding your nearest grocery store, tutors are eager to help international students familiarize themselves with their new home and campus.
Kwok Ng recalls how helpful his tutor was when he first arrived to Jyväskylä and notes how international tutors make a big difference when trying to figure out banking, study structures, and even arrival to the train station. As a new student, there is no need to worry about how to do everything upon arrival… Tutors are here to help!
Consider pursuing PhD at JYU
While a two-year master’s degree may seem long, it can quickly fly by! Luckily, many faculties have doctoral programmes that students can apply to if they would like to continue their education.
While JYU does require students to apply for a PhD, there are two application rounds per year, as well as many opportunities throughout a student’s master’s degree to speak with faculty about pursuing a PhD.
In Kwok Ng’s case, he knew he needed to get a good supervisor and speak with other supervisors and PhD students about funding, feedback, and study interests. By 2016, he had earned his PhD and began post-doctoral work, as well as gained the title of Docent in Health Promotion and Adapted Physical Activity, where he now works across multiple higher education institutions. He encourages students considering this pathway to be ambitious and submit funding applications to many different bodies.
Versatile student life beyond the books
While completing his master’s and PhD, Kwok Ng had gotten to know JYU’s campus quite well over the years. When asked about his favourite things about Jyväskylä and JYU, he mentioned student lunches at Ruusupuisto campus, JYU’s student union JYY, the nearby swimming hall Alvar Aalto, and spending Vappu (a student holiday on May 1st) on the Harju.
Not only academics, but also student experience, is an important part of campus life at JYU. Between academics, extracurriculars, and student life, Kwok enjoyed his time as a student here, discovering a new country, new passions, and new career aspirations.