On 14^th October, 2024, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau hosted a writing journey sharing session, inviting an award-winning Hong Kong writer, Ms. Sonia Leung, to share her epic journey of writing and publishing her memoir, The Girl Who Dreamed: A Hong Kong Memoir of Triumph against the Odds. This book is a memoir of the author’s childhood spent in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. During the sharing session, Leung shared with the participants reading, writing, and walking, as mentioned in the book, helped restore her mental health over the years after experiencing traumatic events, and thereby free herself from the darkness of the past. She encouraged students to re-examine their perspectives on stressful events in life, thus allowing them to discover a different side of themselves and see a broader world.

“What an inspiration to learn that adversity in life, such as mental health challenges, can be overcome using the power of words: reading and writing. In other words, words can help to inspire and uplift our heart, mind and spirit.” – Prof. Siew Huat Kong (College Affiliate–FBA)

“Hearing Sonia speak about overcoming childhood trauma and finding healing through writing and creativity opened my eyes to the transformative power of storytelling. The engaging Q&A session provided a platform for the author, professors, and students to reflect on how we can all learn from difficult experiences.” – Onofre Hoi (Year 3 Student, FLL)

“I was deeply moved by Sonia’s story, and I admired the way she found in the writing process a way to overcome her traumas and finding some inner peace. After hearing her writing journey, something shifted within me. I felt inspired to reconnect with that younger me, daydreaming with pen and paper. I feel ready to get back to writing. Back to myself.” –  Tatiana Rodriguez (Year 2 Student, FST)

“From Sonia’s sharing, I learned that writing can document people’s lives and serve as a vessel for their experiences. The style and structure of writing are not as important as the genuine emotions that can be shared and expressed.” — Adele Feng (Year 1 Student, FHS)

The University of Macau’s Moon Chun Memorial College Resident Tutor, Benson Lin, held the first tutorial on Microeconomics on October 16, 2024. He provided students with practical insights into key economic concepts, offering a clear explanation of the knowledge framework and summarizing important topics. This helped participants understand the logic and connections between concepts.

The session focused on both theory and real-world applications, enabling students to analyze economic models and charts, which enhanced their ability to apply theories to real-world phenomena and strengthened knowledge integration.

The interactive Q&A session was particularly valuable, helping students clarify doubts, fill knowledge gaps, and improve independent thinking, enabling them to approach economic problems more effectively.

MCM College was extremely delighted to collaborate with Centro de Estudios Méxicanos (UNAM/BFSU), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), and Beijing Foreign Studies University, China, in promoting two films as part of a special Mexican film festival. The college would like to extend its appreciation and recognition to Professor Pablo Mendoza Ruíz, Coordinador Académico y Cultural, for his active coordination and support for this meaningful event.

The screening of the first film, ‘Cosas Imposibles’ – an endearing film directed by Ernesto Contreras, starring Nora Velázquez and Benny Emmanuel, was held on Friday, 18th October, 2024 at MCM College, W31-G051, University of Macau,  at 8pm. The endearing drama, directed by Ernesto Contreras, entails an elderly widow’s dark past that continues to torment her until one day, after an unexpected and unlikely friendship with a teenage neighbor is formed. It is through this uncanny connection that Matilde and Miguel console each other, and together they carve out their journey to comfort, closure, and discover happiness. The musical scores added a sense of empowerment, especially to the protagonist, Matilde, exposing deep flashbacks of her youth, and an insight of the problems that stemmed from the abuse at the hands of her husband, Porfíro. 

This academic year, the RC’s core learning theme is knowledge integration, and the idea of hosting the film festival enables students and faculty to learn more about the Spanish language and cultural heritage, but also sheds light on other social issues such as mental health and well-being, poverty, crime, drug abuse, sexual orientation and gender preferences.

Cosas Imposibles left a lasting impression on me due to its heartfelt portrayal of healing and connection. The unlikely friendship between Matilde, a widow dealing with past abuse, and Miguel, a troubled young man, really touched me. Through their bond, both characters find the strength to face their struggles and grow. The film gently explores trauma and loneliness, showing how recovery is slow but possible. Matilde’s story, in particular, made me reflect on the deep effects of domestic violence and the importance of finding support. The film’s mix of emotion and humor made it both moving and uplifting.

Tatiana Muniz Rodriguez

MCM College Volleyball Interest Group had the privilege of thoroughly enjoying a most rewarding, yet interactive volleyball masterclass workshop. College Coach, Prof. Paulo Cardinal, invited special guest Coach, Mr. Paulo Jorge Sanches Martins, an International FIVB Level 1 Coach from Cape Verde, to join the fourth training session.

Coach Martins, affectionately known to his players as ‘Baka’ actively engaged with the group; offering different drills and exercises to improve reflexes, striking and defensive modes of play. Coach Martins placed high emphasis in improving players’ positioning before and after coming into contact with the ball.  Students quickly learned that once the ball is ‘put into play’ the final attacking strike is the most important that counts. Both Prof. Cardinal and Coach Martins stressed that team work and winning matches depend on the correlation and co-operation amongst the players. In essence, the term “ball control” is key to mastering the mindset and skill in order to play collectively as a team.

In addition, Prof. Cardinal also invited several players from Football Clube do Porto (FCP), adding zest and passion to the workshop. As each athlete is different, therefore, Prof. Cardinal’s coaching techniques are tailored to different players’ needs. He explains that in volleyball, combinations are infinite: this means that the number of positions from which plays can be run, the number of court areas that must be defended, the positions for blockers, the combinations of players – all of these elements are infinite so players must be aware of every possible situation.

Finally, Coach Martins reminded players to focus, teaching them how to face adversity and maintain mental toughness. Well-rounded athletes are trained both on and off the court. Athletes grow as they continuously work together as a team in structure and communication. His vast coaching expertise in the professional volleyball circuit has earned him eight consecutive women’s national championships (Cape Verde), two consecutive men’s (senior category) national championships (Cape Verde), ten consecutive women’s (senior category) Southern Santiago regional championships (Cape Verde), and among many other accolades.

To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of the Macao Special Administrative Region, Mandarin House of Moon Chun Memorial College at University of Macau organized a Song Appreciation and Singing Masterclass titled “Patriotic Sing Along” on 7^th October 2024. The event attracted one hundred participants.

Renowned vocal master, Prof. Seng Mei was invited to offer professional guidance to students wishing to express their affection for the country and Macao through singing. Singers from five different houses showcased a variety of songs, including Song of Seven Sons, Ode to Heroes, I Love you China, My Motherland and I, Wish and An Inch of Heart, creating a resonance in everyone’s heart.

Prof. Seng first guided the students to understand the historical background and social conditions of each song. She then helped them deeply understand the song and visualize the corresponding musical scenes in their minds. This approach enabled students to accurately express the inner emotions of the songs. In the end, Prof. Seng’s performance, My Motherland was moving and captivated the entire audience, which received a big round of applause.

“It was a unique opportunity to see the master in action, demonstrating and teaching students how to convey emotions through their singing. With just a touch of the master’s guidance, the students undoubtedly became better singers.” – Ms. Vivian Chaplin (College Fellow, FAH)

“On the occasion of the National Day and the double celebration of Macao’s return, holding a patriotic song singing class at the University of Macau, which is highly internationalized and has special significance as a Special Administrative Region, is a successful practice of ‘One Country, Two Systems’ in Macao. The enthusiasm of the singers and the backstage team, the full attendance of the audience, and the completeness of the event content not only indicated the success of the event but also fully reflect the university’s effective use of residential college advantages and its emphasis on national education.” – Dr. Kuan Ju Lai (College Affiliate, FLL)

The story content of the song ‘An Inch of Heart’ filled my mind with vivid images: ‘Every inch of land has someone rushing to it, every inch of sky is guarded with life and death.’ The happy life we have now is the result of countless heroes, martyrs, and revolutionaries who fought bravely, sacrificing their lives and blood. I chose this song to sing not only because of its beautiful melody but also because it is filled with deep love for the country and is meant to commemorate the Martyrs’ Day that just ended on 30^th September” – Kelvin Tsang (Year 2 Student, FED)

“The ‘Patriotic Sing Along’ masterclass brought touching patriotic songs to us, and the background stories narrated allowed us to feel deeply the significant changes in the country over the 75 years since its founding. Prof. Seng’s dedicated guidance to the singers gave us a deeper understanding of patriotic songs and greatly enhanced the singers’ vocal techniques. This event not only allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the history behind the songs, but also deepened our patriotic sentiments.” – Belly Wang (Year 1 Student, FBA)

On September 29, 2024, students from University of Macau Moon Chun Memorial College embarked on an exploration of Mazu culture at the Mazu Cultural Village in Macao. This cultural village is centered around the tallest Mazu statue, which stands majestically on Alto de Coloane, seamlessly blending elements of religion, ethnicity, culture, and leisure. The Tianhou Palace alone spans an impressive 6,900 square meters.

The Mazu Cultural Village is rich in the features of ancient Chinese temples and replicates the architectural essence of Tin Hau Palaces found worldwide. The exquisite use of high-quality wood and intricately carved granite showcases a remarkable collection of Chinese cultural heritage in Macau.

Throughout their visit, the students demonstrated a strong interest in Mazu culture while also engaging in a healthy lifestyle through mountain hiking. They began their journey with a bus ride to the foot of the Mazu Cultural Village, where they learned about the background of Mazu culture and the history of the village’s construction before hiking up the mountain.

The spirit of “morality, good deeds, and great love,” embodied in Mazu, aligns with universal values and serves as a cultural bridge connecting diverse civilizations, social systems, and stages of development in life. After reflecting on these insights at both the base and summit, the group participated in a moment of devout worship, allowing everyone to relax and immerse themselves in a world of faith.

Text: Luka LI

On 7^th October 2024, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau was delighted to invite college affiliates, Profs. Anise Wu and Letty Kwan, Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS) to deliver a psychoeducation talk on technological use, addiction and emotional regulation. 

Prof. Wu introduced the definition and different types of technological addiction, using smartphone addiction as an example. She pointed out that there is a high prevalence and vulnerability of smartphone addiction among youths. Smartphone is used as a means of coping with negative emotions such as loneliness, anxiety, fear depression and stress. She explained from a scientific perspective how empirical research emphasizes the role of negative emotions in technological use and addiction.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kwan emphasized the importance of emotional regulation as it is related to mental health, interpersonal relationships, decision making, school performance and resilience. Therefore, she introduced some practical methods to increase self-awareness of emotions, including self-reflection on one’s emotion and journaling. Her research result indicated that AI face-reading is a useful tool that can assist students in better manage their emotions.

MCMC organized a workshop titled “Conflict-Solving Language,” led by ELC Senior Instructors Mr. Mark Wong and Ms. Vivian Chaplin. The workshop aimed to equip students with practical language and skills to navigate various real-life interpersonal conflicts they might face during their four years at UM. 

During the session, students participated in hands-on activities that demonstrated the consequences of unresolved disagreements. They were then taught useful expressions to effectively resolve conflicts. Through role-playing exercises, participants practiced these phrases and demonstrated their ability to efficiently handle disputes.

Participating students enjoyed the engaging activities with one of them stating that he would be able to apply the skills in his mother language.

To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of the Macao Special Administrative Region, the University of Macau’s Moon Chun Memorial College and Choi Kai Yau College jointly hosted the concert “MCMC x CKYC Musicales: Timeless Harmonies” on September 22, 2024 (Sunday).

The event featured guest pianist Dr. Zidong Zhou, an associate professor from Wuhan Conservatory, alongside the internationally acclaimed Sheng Kung Hui Choi Kou School Choir, as well as faculty and students from both colleges, all coming together for this dual celebration.

The concert showcased a variety of performances, including Ragtime Alla Turca for two pianos, Ode to the Yellow River, piano and string duets, vocal performances, and a blend of Chinese and Western instruments, creating a vibrant and dynamic musical experience.

This collaborative concert not only honored the significant anniversaries of the country and the Macao SAR but also fostered cultural and artistic exchange among faculty and students, enhancing their artistic experience.

Token of appreciation

Celebration begins

Four Piano Blues/ Aaron Copland; 敦煌夢/黃安倫

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Zidong%20Zhou%20-%20Four%20Piano%20Blues%2C%20%E6%95%A6%E7%85%8C%E5%A4%A2.MP4

Waltz No. 2/ Shostakovich

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Shostakovich%20-%20Waltz%20No.%202.MP4

Libertango/ Piazzolla

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Piazzola%20-%20Libertango.MP4

燈火裡的中國/舒楠

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/%E8%88%92%E6%A5%A0-%E7%87%88%E7%81%AB%E8%A3%A1%E7%9A%84%E4%B8%AD%E5%9C%8B.MP4

Piano duel/不能說的秘密

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Jay%20Chou%20-%20%E4%B8%8D%E8%83%BD%E8%AA%AA%E7%9A%84%E7%A7%98%E5%AF%86%E9%AC%A5%E7%90%B4.MP4

戀春風/劉樂

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/%E5%8A%89%E6%A8%82-%E6%88%80%E6%98%A5%E9%A2%A8.MP4

3 Duets WoO 27 for Violin and Viola (1^st movement)/Beethoven

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Beethoven%20-%20Duet%20for%20Violin%20and%20Viola%201.MP4

黃河頌/殷承宗、儲望華改編

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/%E9%BB%83%E6%B2%B3%E9%A0%8C.MP4

Ragtime Alla Turca for two pianos/ arr. Greg Anderson

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Ragtime%20Alla%20Turca%20for%202%20pianos.MP4

O Love/Elaine Hagenberg; 追尋/舒楠; Winter Wind/Darius Lim

https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/Choi%20Kou%20School%20Choir.MP4

Group photo

The House Association of Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau successfully organized a “Summer Dopamine” Fun Sports Day designed specifically for college students on 25^th September 2024, attracting around 80 participants. The participants fully enjoyed the fun of sports through a series of exciting group activities.  Among them, the unique Water Balloon Fight became the highlight, with everyone spending a joyful time amidst laughter and splashes. It was not only a test of physical strength but also a challenge of teamwork. Every precise throw and agile dodge witnessed the tacit understanding among team members.  Although the event has ended, the joy and vitality will continue into daily life.