What better way to understand global markets than on an international module abroad? In June and July of this year, three consecutive groups of Part-Time MBA students participated in week-long experiences as part of the program’s international module. The course offers fresh insights from expert faculty at one of the world’s renowned universities – Columbia School of Business in New York, USA. Before the students dive into thought-provoking discussions and fruitful idea generation, each week begins with a champagne brunch cruise. The cruise allows the groups to network with peers from around the world and meet students from other cohorts.
“What a fantastic program with fantastic people in a fantastic city!” exclaims Part-Time MBA student Cansu Yildirim. “This has been one of the most memorable experiences during my WHU studies. To be in one of the most diverse cities in the world with an MBA class as diverse as ours – I can 100% say that I would recommend this program. Before the start of the module, I was interested in learning from scholars from one of the world’s leading business schools. I wanted to know more about American business strategies and their keys to success. It has more than met these expectations.”
The students are exposed to a multitude of lectures from top professors at the school, tackling critical topics ranging from negotiations, strategy, leadership, and corporate entrepreneurship. “The whole week for me was very inspiring,” says Part-Time MBA Ashutosh Misra. “Strategic Intuition and Values-Based Leadership were interesting lectures for me. They taught me the importance of crafting and choosing the right strategy and how my values help guide me in difficult situations as a leader. My expectation of the experience was that we would learn different aspects of leadership or how it differs in the USA from Europe. It has been an incredible opportunity for me to appreciate the vibrant culture in New York. I believe it has helped me become a better version of myself.”
Ashutosh joined WHU after completing his engineering degree in India, focusing much of his career on technology. “I felt I was lacking knowledge of the wider business world. I wanted to develop my management and leadership skills for better career prospects in the future. I chose the MBA at WHU as the integrated international and leadership modules were unique and aligned with my development plans.”
As for Cansu, she decided on the MBA when realizing she lacked new insights into strategy and leadership. “I believe in lifelong learning. After several years in the same job, I was ready for new opportunities to expand my knowledge. I would like to pursue a more long-term goal of a career in management with a focus on strategy. I mainly chose WHU not only for its excellent reputation, but also the curriculum, the international modules, and the strong focus on entrepreneurship.”
“The module has been an amazing opportunity to connect with professors from Columbia. They were very approachable and offered to be contacted even once we have returned to Germany should we have more questions. It has brought many of us WHU students closer, and I learned many new things about them. There were many positive surprises, and I believe many new friendships have developed just this week.”