At the University of Liverpool, we are very lucky to have supporters who believe in our students and show up for them in such meaningful ways.
Through the Student Fund, our supporters make it possible for students to come to university and achieve their dreams. In this Donor Spotlight, we speak to alumnus, Rasul Butt (LLB 1990), who shares what motivated him to give back to support students and his experience of studying at the University.
Tell us about your experience of studying at the University of Liverpool.
I spent three memorable years at the University of Liverpool. During that time, the Law Faculty was based in what is now the South Campus Teaching Hub. Having our own building helped to foster a sense of close community among law students, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I was also a member of the Legal Society and the Hong Kong Society.
I was an average law student then, but I never felt left out by our lecturers who were very patient and helpful. I still keep in close touch with some of my classmates and seniors today. I will always be grateful for the excellent education that I received at Liverpool.
What are some of your most memorable experiences from your time at university?
I remember being very nervous in tutorials during my first year, worried about not being able to answer my tutors’ questions and hoping that they would not pick me to answer tough questions. My confidence grew as time went by with the help of my lecturers and tutors, and I learnt that there is no such thing as “over-preparation”. This accords with one of my favourite Chinese sayings: “One minute on stage takes ten years of preparation off stage”.
I was in second year when the Hillsborough disaster took place on 15th April 1989. Everyone was devastated and we knew that some university students were at the stadium. I still vividly recall how the university and the city came together to offer their support to those who lost their loved ones.
Where did life take you after graduation?
I pursued a postgraduate degree in public law, then took my Bar Examination and was called to the Bar of England & Wales and the Hong Kong Bar.
Career-wise, I had a brief stint as a law lecturer at a Malaysian university after I obtained my LLM degree and this was followed by two years at a merchant bank. After that, I entered the public sector and have been in public service ever since. Currently, I am the CEO of the Hong Kong Competition Commission, a law enforcement agency charged with enforcing competition law in Hong Kong.
What motivated you to give back to the University and support Liverpool students?
I am very touched by the stories shared by the University about how support from alumni (no matter how modest it may be) can help students in need to pursue higher education and create better prospects for themselves.
What advice would you give to current students at the University?
Take full advantage of the many opportunities that our university offers and do try to strike a balance between academic studies and enjoying university life.
We are very thankful to alumni like Rasul, whose kindness continues to shape the student experience and create opportunities where they’re needed most.
Interested in sharing your story?
We’d love to hear it. Email us at giving@liverpool.ac.uk or find out more about the Student Fund on our website.