I am presently a MBA student at the CEIBS MBA Class of 2019. Coming from India, being an international student, I was a little sceptical (China…Language barrier…Culture Shock…Job Opportunities – in this order!) when evaluating the program.
As a student, when evaluating North American or European MBA programs, we usually just focus on the rankings, school’s specialization that is of interest to us and jobs in that area post the MBA. CEIBS, as far as the rankings are concerned is the best in Asia – So what is it that made me think so hard about this program and finally end up here?
To start with, China is the world economy’s engine. But Shanghai, its so strategically located that it is the heart of Chinese and in a way the world’s economy. And the city, despite being in China is so Chinese yet not Chinese (it’s a hub of ethnic diversity). CEIBS, is in this city. By strategic I mean – You find the offices of almost every MNC working in Asia, right here in Shanghai – usually within a 30-minute ride from the campus. And all these companies, highly value CEIBS and visit the CEIBS campus regularly for some event or the other. The opportunities to create a network in the world’s fastest growing market are thus boundless – more so because usually you find some or the other CEIBS alumni working at the these MNCs.
The above might sound like a pitch, believe me it is not. Though I can say, when you land at the campus for the very first time, with a set of pre-conceived notions about China and its culture, you are overwhelmed! Having this in mind, I decided to come a month before to attend the School organised Chinese language pre-course for international students. I can easily say that it was one of the best decisions I made. The course was an appropriate mix of the language technicalities with the cultural experience wherein we were taken to places like the Watertown, Museum, Local market, etc. to give us a hands-on experience of being in China and getting comfortable. We were taught basic Chinese language which we tested in these excursions outside the campus and the many-many parties we had 😊
This was a soft landing which I needed to realize the openness of the Chinese people and its culture. It gave me a chance to develop friendships (with Internationals & Chinese) and explore Shanghai – which is very difficult with the pace of the MBA. All I can say is – This program is one of the best in Asia not only academically as the course structure is modeled on the much-famed Harvard Case study model, but also because of the care the school takes to make sure you don’t drop onto hard ice rather it gives you the avenue to land on water and come up to float before it equips you for final lap!
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