Meet our current students

We aspire our students to be critical thinkers and researchers with strong professional ethics and a commitment to social responsibility. Find out why our current students chose to study with us and learn about their current study experiences.

A complete list of our current studies and their research areas can also be found here.


Current PhD student: Degel Cheung

  • B.S.Sc. in Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • M.Phil. in Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • Political Communication
  • Media Psychology
  • Media Education and Literacy
  • Popular Culture

I chose to study at our School because its curriculum offers a robust foundation while introducing me to a wide array of paradigms and methodologies. This comprehensive approach empowers me to explore various avenues, deepening my understanding of communication theories and phenomena. The curriculum is challenging yet well-designed, ensuring that we become pioneers in our fields while integrating knowledge from different research areas. 

My research journey at CUHK has been immensely enriched by the vibrant and diverse community of postgraduate students and faculty members. This environment fosters interdisciplinary discussions and collaborative projects. Participating in the School’s Brown-bag sessions keeps me updated with the latest ideas from various intellectuals and researchers. I am also very grateful for the extensive support from the School, which has enabled me to attend several overseas conferences and schools, furthering my intellectual exchange and experience.


Current PhD student: Dragic Lazar

  • B.A. in Chinese Language, Sun Yat-sen University
  • M.A. in Journalism and Communication, Shanghai Jiaotong University
  • Media Psychology
  • Critical Media Effects
  • Queer Studies
  • Mental health and Well-being
  • Mixed Methods

One of the reasons is that our School provides comprehensive courses that allow us to get in touch with various fields and points of view, enabling us to position ourselves and our research better. Additionally, I have heard many positive experiences from my previous professors at SJTU, which only solidified my decision.

I am delighted with how my first year here went. I gained new knowledge, learned from very approachable professors who are always willing to help, met ambitious and supportive peers, and, with generous funding from our School, CUHK, and HKPFS, I had the opportunity to present at three conferences.


Current PhD student: Cao Xueyan

  • B.A. in Communication Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
  • M.A. in Communication Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
  • Health Communication
  • Human Machine Interaction

For my Ph.D. study, I hope to have a different learning experience with more international insights. Also, I want to study in a strong communication program to learn how to conduct advanced research through various approaches. That’s why I chose here.

I enjoyed studying here and benefited a lot from this nice program. Both professors and classmates are very nice to provide support for my study and life. Everyone and everything here helps me to become closer and closer to my academic dream.


Current MPhil student: Lam Sum Yi

  • B.S.Sc. in Journalism and Communication, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • Journalism Studies
  • New Media Evolution
  • Media and social movement

When I graduated, I never imagined returning to study here again. Yet, society’s upheaval has left me wounded and struggled. Choosing to rejoin the JLM family is my hope to become a better and wiser person. The school has been a safe harbor allows me to learn, reflect, and feel the beauty of campus life once more.

They say the academic path is a lonely one, with only yourself to rely on. Yet, the school, our professors, and peers have always been my companions and confidants in times of need and frustration. Their support has ensured I never lost my drive, even in my most difficult moments.