On 24^th March, 2025, college affiliate, Prof. Lulu LIU (Department of Psychology, FSS), Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau held a talk on depression and anxiety. The event aimed to raise participants’ awareness of mental health issues, eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness, and provide practical tools and resources.

Prof. Liu has a rich background in mental health research, focusing on the causes and impacts of psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. She delved into the basics of these emotional disorders, including their causes, symptoms, and effective coping strategies. By combining empirical research and real-life cases, Prof. Liu helped participants understand how to identify early signs of depression and anxiety and explored effective coping methods to enhance psychological resilience.

Text: Dai Li Juan (College Resident Tutor)

“Prof. Liu’s insightful explanations provided a clearer understanding of depression and anxiety. I particularly appreciated the evidence-based studies and real-life cases she shared. These stories highlighted the universality of mental health challenges and underscored the importance of greater awareness and empathy. This event not only enriched my knowledge but also taught me how to recognize emotional states in myself and others.” – Guo Pak Hung

“Prof. Liu explored a range of research skills whilst emphasizing on the importance of identifying research questions. She shared guidance on how to design realistic and valuable research topics and conducting systematic literature reviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of existing research findings and identify newer concepts. In addition, Prof. Liu introduced efficient data collection methods, enabling students to ensure the objectivity and representativeness of their data, which is crucial for enhancing research credibility.” – GanYunxin

“The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing that Prof. Liu’s specific examples and practical skills effectively bridged theory and practice, enriching their learning experience. This talk undoubtedly laid a solid foundation for their academic journeys. Ultimately, students look forward to more similar seminars in the future to further enhance their research capabilities and academic literacy.” – Xia Xinyu

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, is honored to have invited Dr. Chan Ka Pui, Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner, to give a workshop on menstrual pain, as one of the lecture in MCMC Chinese Medicine Health Lecture Series.

During the workshop, Dr. Chan provided an in-depth analysis of the causes of menstrual pain and introduced various traditional Chinese medicine classifications to help participants identify their own conditions. He also shared multiple treatment methods, including acupuncture, Chinese therapeutic massage, and herbal medicine, along with practical prevention and health care tips. Participants were actively engaged, posing numerous questions. This event not only enhanced women’s understanding of menstrual pain but also equipped them with practical coping strategies, receiving positive feedback overall.　

On March 1, 2025, MCM College St Paul’s House, University of Macau, organized an unforgettable Tchoukball experiential workshop. Tchoukball is a dynamic team sport invented in Switzerland, combining elements of handball and volleyball. It is played by shooting a ball against a rebound frame, allowing it to bounce back into the court. With no physical contact allowed and teams of seven players attacking either end frame, Tchoukball emphasizes agility, strategy, and fair play. Its fast-paced, inclusive nature—where defenders catch rebounds rather than blocking shots—has made it popular worldwide as a unique, non-aggressive competitive sport.

Participants gathered in the N8 Gymnasium, where Horry, a member of the Tchoukball team at the University of Macau and St Paul’s House committee member, led them through a warm-up exercise to minimize the risk of injury. Under his guidance, the group then participated in a series of basic training sessions focused on the rules, including passing and scoring. Once they grasped the basics, they divided into three groups to engage in a competitive experience. During this experiential competition, participants not only had fun and strengthened communication but also gained a deeper understanding of the sport.

Text: Luka Li

On Saturday morning, 29^th March, 2025, a small delegation of MCM College staff and students travelled to Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai Campus, to take part in an invitational student forum. BNU Zhuhai is a comprehensive, research-oriented, world-class university with Chinese characteristic and leading teacher education. Its location as a southern campus of the same level as Beijing campus, has developed and progressed “One University, Two Campuses”.  

The forum was jointly organized by School of Arts and Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Bay Area International Business School, Future Design College, and Huitong College. Members of the academic panel included distinguished professors: Ouyang Wei; Qin Wei; Liu Lanfang; and Fang Qile.

The theme was based on an “Interdisciplinary Integration and Innovative Development” in which students from diverse faculties addressed professors and student peers presented research.  Dai Lijuan, a doctoral student from University of Macau and resident tutor of MCM College, represented MCM College as the inaugural student speaker of the forum. Her presentation focused on the application of empirical research and neuroimaging in the study of human decision-making process.

The forum offered an impressive insight to the higher levels of research interests and methodology, allowing students and professors to engage in further discussions during the interval, as well as inviting questions from the audience before the forum concluded.

Delegates of MCM College were invited to a sumptuous lunch with staff and students at one of several campus dining outlets. This was followed by an eye-opening scenic campus tour, and a visit to Huitong College, which is a reflection of talent cultivation, vision and advocates Chinese and Western cultures whilst integrating ancient and modern knowledge through arts and science. It is one of the first three colleges established at BNU Zhuhai.

Finally, the delegation bid farewell to their gracious hosts, and returned to Macao.

I was deeply inspired by the forum on “Cross-disciplinary Integration and Innovative Development”. Through keynote speeches, students’ sharing and achievements presentation, the forum made me deeply realize that cross-discipline is not only an academic trend, but also the key to solving complex problems. Prof. Ouyang Wei emphasized the importance of cross-disciplinary thinking by taking his own scientific research experience as an example, while the speeches of the student representatives showed me how cross-disciplinary practice can broaden horizons and stimulate innovation. In particular, the exchanges with faculty and students of the University of Macau made me feel the enthusiasm of the youth of the Greater Bay Area to jointly explore the frontier and cooperate for win-win results. The event made me realize that innovation is often born at the intersection of disciplines. In the future, I will take my major as the foundation, actively embrace interdisciplinary learning, develop problem-solving skills in practice, and strive to become a new-age talent with both professional depth and cross-border vision. –Su Xiao, Year 1

Through this exchange activity, I witnessed the unique college system and the 3-in-1 education model of BNU Zhuhai which broadened my horizons; during the exchange activity, I also listened to the reports of the students of BNU and communicated with them in-depth, and I felt their dispersed thinking and rich professional knowledge, and the topic of the research also gave me great inspiration; after this, I also visited their campus, and experienced the cultural atmosphere.  Finally, it was a very meaningful activity and I learned a lot from it. –Sun Haoran, Year 1

On a cold wet Sunday afternoon, 30^th March, 2025, Camões House Resident Assistant, Tatiana Muniz, and Gabriela Rorato, representative of International Students Association (ISA), co-hosted an exciting and invigorating Kizomba Dance workshop in the Dance Room, at N8 Sports Complex.

https://youtu.be/MAocN2A3-nY

Kizomba, a genre closer than salsa, which embraces and exhibits incredibly sensual movements similar to tango, but with a closer embrace. Its style and music originates from Angola in the latter 1980s and early 90s, but infuses heavily from zouk –a Caribbean quick-rhythm dance. Kizomba allows partners quite a bit of freedom and creativity in how the male partner takes his steps and leads his female partner following the music.

The college welcomed back Mr. Silvino Pinho, Chief Choreographer, who patiently demonstrated why such a dance has grown in popularity, and is now enjoyed as a fast-paced, exciting, and romantic style that is adored all over the world. Silvino highlighted that basic movement with the music can be danced with only four or five different moves. The challenge for beginners, or even for more advanced learners, is mastering the subtlety of movement and learning to move with your partner. “It’s about the one-to-one connection with your dance partner.”

With such popularity, Camões House is planning to create Kizomba as a special interest group in the Fall of AY2025/26.

“The experiential learning Kizomba workshop held on March 30 was excellent! The way the instructor conducted the activity made it easier to learn the dance; in a way we connected and learned from each other. In the end, with just the basic steps, our confidence to dance and our enthusiasm to learn more increased. All in all I was very pleased!”

Luana Almeida

“The Kizomba workshop was simply amazing – full of rhythm and energy which allowed everyone to connect through dance and music! I learned new steps and the connection with my partner brought a unique feeling of harmony and fun!”

 Omar Sissoco Embaló

On 20^th March, 2025, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau had the honor of inviting a Macau film director, Ms. Harriet Wong to share her career story. Her talk of pursuing her dreams, captivated the audience. Director Wong’s debut film, Revisit, was the centerpiece of the event, as it was based on her personal experiences, and was awarded the “Most Anticipated Chinese Film” at the 37th Golden Rooster Awards.

Revisit was released nationwide last year, and it depicted the heartfelt story of a young woman who, after chasing her dreams in Beijing, returns to her hometown to reconnect with her grandmother. Director Wong revealed during the session that the film was inspired by her deep bond with her grandmother and a fresh perspective on life. She emphasized that being a director requires curiosity, imagination, and creativity. One of her favorite quotes is “In filmmaking, it’s not about finding new landscapes but establishing new visual perspectives.”

She also reflected on her struggles and the challenges she faced in the film industry, underlining the importance of perseverance and staying true to one’s passion. Her talk resonated with students, showcasing how life’s setbacks can fuel artistic inspiration. This engaging session was not just a discussion of film and storytelling but also a feast of life wisdom.

“Director Wong shared her experience collaborating with an anesthesiologist-turned-actress during the filming of Revisit, which was a profound insight for me. I came to realize that interdisciplinary collaboration is not a limitation but a wellspring of creativity. It sparks innovative ideas and ignites the brilliance of new possibilities. This perspective deepened my understanding that ‘innovation’ is not born out of thin air but is the artful transformation of existing experiences and life into fresh and meaningful outcomes.” – Shalimar Liang (FBA – International Integrated Resort Management)

“Director Wong shared her life story with us, showcasing her courage to pursue her own path in filmmaking despite her parents’ opposition. As an unknown online fiction writer, I, too, have faced moments of confusion, struggling to balance my studies while trying to maintain my passion for writing. During this period of creative drought, I sought advice from Director Wong. Her thoughtful response not only sparked new ideas but also helped me rediscover my direction in writing.” – Audrey Shi (FLL – Law in Chinese Language)

“After listening to Director Wong’s story, I deeply realized that even when the reality of my current self feels far removed from the dreams within my heart, and even when the journey to achieving those dreams is fraught with challenges and obstacles, steadfast perseverance can make all the difference. By taking every step with determination and purpose, I can gradually move closer to the shores of my aspirations. This unwavering effort is not only a pursuit of my dreams but also the truest tribute to the hopeful version of myself that I once envisioned.” – Wendy Chen (FHS – Pharmaceutical Science)

On 19^th March, 2025, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau hosted a workshop on career decision-making and major selection. Associate Professor, Hui XU (Department of Psychology) who led the workshop, provided students with professional insights into core principles of career development, and common challenges faced during career decision-making.

Prof. Xu also introduced an online assessment tool (based on research findings, big data, and AI technology) which aims to help students get a better understanding of themselves. This tool creates more rational and informed career decisions. Participants had the chance to experience this tool firsthand and engaged in interactive session to discuss their questions and concerns about career planning. The workshop not only offered students practical knowledge and tools but also fostered deeper reflection on career development, laying a solid foundation for their future choices.

“After the workshop, I realized that Communication aligns with artistic and social career interests. I excel in artistic and creative work and enjoy tackling social issues through team collaboration. Prof. Xu’s assessment tool inspired me to think about combining short video creation with public issue advocacy, practicing the principle of ‘aesthetics as the foundation, humanity as the application’ in the field of communication.”  – Lorraine Liu (Year 3, FSS – Communication)

“The workshop analyzed occupational preferences from a psychological perspective and combined career interest analysis. Its format was innovative and inspiring. Prof. Xu’s insights into the influence of personality on careers provided practical advice for confused students. I suggested our college to host more workshops like this to help students explore personalized career paths.” – Sheffield Li (Year 2, FBA – Accounting)

“Thanks to Prof. Xu’s expertise and rich experience, we gained a clear understanding of future career planning. After completing the assessment, the results were like a guiding light, helping me better understand myself. Through precise occupational interest analysis, we mastered career decision-making and conducted a comprehensive evaluation. ” – Joo Shien Teh (Year 2, FSS –
Economics)

MCM College at the University of Macau was pleased to invite Ms. Chan Ka I, the successor of Tai Lei Loi Kei in Macao, to host the “Taste of MCMC” event-Cook with the Chef.” This event offered participants an immersive exploration of traditional culinary culture. Ms. Chan shared an engaging narrative about the rich history and craftsmanship behind Tai Lei Loi Kei, highlighting the origins and stories of iconic dishes such as the Macao Pork Chop Bun, Curry Fish Balls, and Serradura Pudding. She emphasized that the brand’s enduring success is founded on the preservation of time-honored culinary skills and a steadfast commitment to high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each dish reflects a deep cultural legacy.

Following her presentation, participants engaged in an interactive cooking session where they worked in groups, guided by the chef, to prepare Sour Plum Chicken and Cashew Cream Dessert using traditional techniques. This hands-on experience not only taught authentic cooking methods but also underscored the importance of preserving culinary heritage. Participants expressed that the event deepened their understanding of traditional culinary arts and sparked a genuine interest in classic cuisine.

Text: Lin Haoxiang