In a bustling household filled with the echoes of laughter and learning, a unique bond flourishes between HKUST alumnus Thomas Lee (BEng (1998), MPhil (2000) and PhD (2003) in Chemical Engineering) and his son, Conan Lee, an HKUST dual-degree undergraduate majoring in Aerospace Engineering and General Business Management. Both proud members of the HKUST community, they embody the spirit of exploration and individuality that the University fosters. An Associate Professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Thomas has always encouraged his children to carve their own paths, free from traditional constraints.
"Growing up, my brother and I had the freedom to choose our own paths. Our parents never pressured us into any specific fields," Conan reflects. This nurturing environment allowed them to explore their interests fully. While Thomas has pursued biomedical engineering, Conan has chosen aerospace engineering and business, and his younger brother has developed a strong passion for marine biology. This diversity demonstrates the supportive approach of Thomas and his wife, Daphne, an HKUST alumna, instilling confidence in their children to follow their passions.
Thomas and Daphne met through the volleyball team at HKUST. After starting their family, they brought their sons back to the University regularly. Conan fondly recalls accompanying his parents to the campus for their volleyball matches, creating cherished memories that have left a lasting impression on him.
For Conan, the ties with HKUST are strengthened by his parents' experiences here. With both parents as alumni, Conan views it as a safe choice for his own education. A recipient of the HKUST Alumni Endowment Fund Children of Alumni Scholarships and Awards 2024/25, along with other prestigious scholarships, Conan reflects, "The opportunities made possible by these scholarships allow me to explore research and entrepreneurship without financial stress. This has not only expanded my horizons but has also motivated me to delve deeper into my interests." He appreciates the vast opportunities and resources the University provides. The legacy of his parents' journey continues to inspire him as he looks forward to his future at HKUST. 
Family meals have always been a cornerstone of their household, filled with stories and laughter. "We make it a point to sit down together, no matter how busy life gets. These meals are where we bond," recalls Thomas. Beyond bonding, this tradition cultivates trust, allowing the children to share their thoughts openly.
Recently, the family experienced a significant shift as both children ventured abroad for their studies — Conan in the United States for an exchange program and his brother in Australia for his undergraduate degree. This transition brought nostalgia for Thomas. "It was strange to realize both my kids were away at the same time. We had to adapt to it," he reflects. To maintain their close-knit bond, the family turned to technology, connecting through regular online calls. "It's wonderful to see how Conan has taken the initiative to keep our family traditions alive, even from afar," Thomas says.
"Being away has made me realize the importance of maintaining connections. I feel comfortable discussing my challenges with my parents, knowing they’re always there for me," Conan adds. This proactive approach strengthens their relationship and highlights his growth into a responsible young adult. 
Growing up, Conan and his younger brother enjoyed a sense of freedom, as their parents never pressured them to choose any specific paths, allowing them to explore their own interests freely. "Watching my dad dedicating countless hours to his work showed us the value of hard work and passion. His commitment to his research was inspiring. He led by example, and his persistence has undoubtedly motivated us," Conan recalls.
"Children learn by watching their parents. If we demonstrate a strong work ethic and passion for our interests, they will naturally adopt those values," Thomas says. At the heart of their parenting philosophy is a commitment to happiness. "Our primary goal has always been to ensure our children are happy. We never wanted them to feel pressured to follow a specific path," adds Thomas. Throughout their childhood, they did not enroll their children in any tutorials or extracurricular classes, only insisting on swimming as a vital life skill. This approach allowed both brothers to explore their interests and pursue their dreams confidently.
Looking ahead, Conan is eager to fully explore his potential during his undergraduate studies, diving into research, gaining startup experience, and possibly pursuing another exchange opportunity. As he navigates his journey at HKUST, his bond with his father deepens. They share a legacy of exploration, independence, and mutual respect — the principles that will guide them for years to come. Through their experiences, the Lee family exemplifies the spirit of HKUST, inspiring future generations to embrace their passions and forge their own paths.
This story is not just about Thomas and Conan; it's about a family that embodies the values of freedom, happiness, and growth. Their support for each other highlights the importance of nurturing relationships and the impact of a strong foundation built on trust and love.