Valentine’s Day Special｜When business sparks romance: CUHK Business School love stories

Love is not just found in fairy tales — it can start in lecture halls, alumni gatherings, or even through shared professional aspirations. At CUHK Business School, many connections go beyond professional networks, with nearly 300 alumni couples on record, some dating back to the 1960s. From classmates to life partners, their stories prove that while coursework may end, the bonds formed here can last a lifetime.

This Valentine’s Day, we are shining a spotlight on two CUHK Business School alumni couples whose CUHK journeys played a role in their love stories. Their experiences remind us that, much like in business, relationships require effort, communication, and sometimes, a bit of serendipity.

Whether you are celebrating with a loved one or enjoying your own journey, we wish you a Valentine’s Day filled with happiness, connection, and love in all its forms.

Resonating across cultures: Mia Lai (MBA 2015) and Sidhant Rustagi (MBA 2015)

CUHK Business School brings together alumni from all over the world, creating connections that transcend borders. For Mia from Taiwan and Sidhant from India, the school was where their love story took root.

The two were MBA classmates, but it was a semester break trip that truly brought them closer. “Traveling is the best way to get to know a person,” Mia shares. That trip helped them understand each other better and, in the process, sparked something special.

“We’re always laughing when we’re together,” Mia says. Despite their different cultural backgrounds, they share the same goals and values, and this deep connection has been the key to their lasting journey together.

Mia (left) and Sidhant (right) found love while pursuing their MBA together at CUHK.

Looking back on their MBA days, Mia and Sidhant were not just study partners — they were each other’s biggest support. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang once joked about using homework as an excuse to spend time with his wife, and Mia and Sidhant can relate. “We spent countless late nights preparing resumes and practicing interviews together — those moments became part of our story, too.”

Now together for 10 years and married for nearly five, the couple believes there is no fixed formula for relationships, but “Happy Wife, Happy Life” is a pretty solid rule to follow! Their advice for couples? Communicate openly, listen actively, support each other — and most importantly, be yourself.

For those still flying solo this Valentine’s Day, the couple offers a light-hearted reminder: There is no rush — focus on your own growth, and the right person will come at the right time. They adds with a knowing smile, “After all, it’s better to stay single while studying for your MBA!”

From interest rates to romantic dates: Kathy Leung (IBBA 2004) and Thomas Lee (EMBA 2015)

Sometimes, the right connections start with shared interests and eventually lead to something much bigger. That’s the case for Kathy and Thomas, whose journey together eventually brought them to CUHK Business School.

The two first met at a school event in 2012. With a shared background in finance, conversations flowed effortlessly. “We had plenty to talk about, from industry trends to where to find the best food,” Kathy recalls with a laugh. Their mutual enthusiasm for both made their bond grew stronger over time.

As Thomas was looking to further his professional development, Kathy encouraged him to join the CUHK EMBA programme. Their CUHK connection only deepened from there — after Thomas’ graduation, both became mentors, giving back to the Business School community that had become so meaningful to them.

Kathy (centre) and Thomas (first right) both took on mentoring roles after graduation to contribute to the Business School community.

“Accommodate and embrace differences”, Kathy shares when asked about the secret to their relationship and eight years of strong marriage. “Just like in business, communication is important. We always keep an open dialogue to resolve problems, listen to each other, and find common ground.” They also believe in balancing work, family, and personal time, fostering shared interests while appreciating their differences.

And for those still searching for love? Kathy keeps it simple: “Enjoy life, stay healthy, and happiness will follow.”

CUHK Business School has a proud network of over 45,000 alumni in 50 countries. To explore our inspiring alumni stories, please click here.