Ling (Elaine) Wong, born in Hong Kong, graduated from Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH) in December 2023 with a degree in TESOL education and a minor in psychology. Choosing the international track for her licensing, she returned to Hong Kong to complete her internship. She has since become a full-time English teacher at Queen Elizabeth School Old Students’ Association Secondary School.
Beyond her teaching role, Wong serves her local church ward as the Young Women's President. She also co-presides over the BYUH Hong Kong Alumni Chapter with Yasu Tsz Kin Li, who majored in international cultural studies and graduated earlier than her. Together, they strengthen relationships among alumni.
Wong’s connection to BYUH began with a family influence. “My brother was also an alumnus from BYU–Hawaii,” she recalled. “When thinking about which BYU to attend, he told me that BYU–Hawaii would be the perfect place to prepare me for the world. Since there are so many people from different places and diverse backgrounds, it’s the perfect place to glimpse the world and see how other people live and their perspectives.” This advice convinced Wong that BYUH was the right choice.
Her journey at the university started in 2019, though it was briefly paused when she left to serve a mission in Hong Kong from 2020 to 2021. Upon returning, she considered transferring to another BYU campus but ultimately decided to stay. “Coming back to Hawaii felt like the right decision,” she said. In the fall of 2022, Wong took on the role of club president for the Hong Kong Club, fully embracing the chance to connect with her community. “I loved it,” she beamed, recounting how she immersed herself in events like the Food Fest and Culture Night. “I joined in every chance I got.”
Wong's experiences at BYUH were invaluable, and she eagerly shared how meaningful they had been. “I met so many great people and learned a lot from them,” she said. “For example, I had the chance to present with my professor at the TESOL conference.” Moments like these affirmed Wong’s gratitude for the opportunities at the university, especially the education program. Through this program, she achieved her goal of becoming a licensed teacher in her hometown of Hong Kong. “It’s been an incredible journey,” she reflected.
Taking on the role of chapter president for the BYUH Hong Kong Alumni Chapter in March 2024, Wong had a clear mission. “It’s been many years since the last chapter gathering,” she explained. “So, our goal is to gather alumni from all generations, to let them know we’re back. We also wanted to encourage them to give back. Our motto in BYUH is, ‘enter to learn, go forth to serve,’ right now, it’s time to go forth and serve.”
Wong shared that their initial meetings were filled with brainstorming sessions, all centered around creating meaningful activities for alumni. “We’re planning things like volunteer opportunities and a professional development week where alumni can share their expertise,” she said. “We want them to be mentors for recent graduates, to guide them as they navigate the job market. But all of this is still in the planning stages. We’ve just had our first official gathering to reconnect with everyone and get their contact information, so we’re still at the beginning. But we’re excited for what’s to come.”
At the recent Hong Kong Chapter gathering in August 2024, the chapter presidency shared their vision with attendees. “We told them that now is the time to give back and share their talents. We even had them fill out forms with their professions and asked whether they’d be willing to become mentors. It was very much about reconnecting and allowing them to step up. And, of course, we had some games, networking sessions, and food to enjoy,” Wong explained.
Reflecting on the responsibilities of the role, she emphasized the importance of staying focused. “As presidents, we’re trying to keep our sights on our main goal, which is to help our alumni give back,” she noted. “We’ll facilitate activities and decide what would be most helpful for everyone. For example, we’ll delegate mentorships and internships to other leaders in our presidency. It’s all about keeping things aligned with our purpose to serve.”
Wong expressed a deep purpose as she looked to the journey ahead. “For me, serving our BYUH Hong Kong alumni chapter is very much like missionary work,” she shared thoughtfully. “I feel like I am an instrument to help. I know other people are better suited for the calling, but I got the invitation for now and felt I should accept it and try my best in this position.”
Ling Wong’s words reflect a commitment to her fellow alumni and the mission of BYU– Hawaii, embodying the spirit of service and dedication. The road may be just beginning, but with her enthusiasm and resolve, she’s ready to lead with heart and purpose, helping to shape a bright future for the BYUH Hong Kong Alumni Chapter.