Rick Zhuang, Stanford GSB’s MSx Class of 2020
Age: 38
Hometown: Guangzhou, China
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Fudan University in Shanghai, Computer Science
Pre-MSx Work Experience (years, industry): 12 years, Internet
Why business school? Why now?
I have been working tirelessly in a highly dynamic industry for over a decade and I would appreciate a break to reflect and recharge before moving on to the next stage of life. The timing also coincides with industry tidal shifts that I know I need to arm myself with new skills and way of thinking in order to make more profound impacts. Educated and worked in both US and China, I believe I have a unique perspective to lead people and organizations to make profound impact in a global context.
Why Stanford MSx? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Stanford and GSB are no stranger to me. During my work in Silicon Valley and China, I have come to bond with quite a few GSB MBAs and Sloan Fellows. I find that they all share an inspiring personality: live every moment to its fullest with a sense of purpose. I identify with these people passionately, and that is how the idea to apply for MSx first came to me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
A unique perspective on business, organization, and technology innovation. I had been extremely fortunate to be at the right place at the right time: witnessing first-hand and riding the waves of the incredible growth of mobile Internet in China. Reflecting upon and sharing that unique personal experience would be my humble way to contribute to the collective learning experience of the Class.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I love nature and landscape photography. I even had photos appeared in productions of NBC and HBO, and print media such as the National Geographic Traveler magazine.
Post-MSx career interests?
My long-term objective is to make a profound impact with technology and product innovation, with an emphasis on helping traditional business transform how they operate in the digital world. To achieve that I will explore the entrepreneurial path.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Don’t worry too much about your GMAT. I spent about 14 days in total to prepare for it and I can’t say I’m satisfied with my score. But it’s just a box to check off. For mid-career experienced leaders applying to the MSx program, you have so much more to say about yourself than a standardized test report.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would consider applying in earlier rounds. I did it last minute: I decided to apply when it was about a month before the 3rd round deadline. Scrambling through the application process while dealing with the heavy workload in an Internet business definitely created quite a bit of stress.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
None. I learned more about myself by reflecting deeply upon my experience, goals, and values. And I got to share and discuss those with the people I held dear. Wonderful experience.
What is your initial impression of Stanford’s students/culture/community?
The cohorts are amazing. They bring in truly international and diverse perspective. Although many of them are super accomplished individuals with lots of legacy, they are such a humble, open, and curious bunch. I learn something new from them every day.
One thing you have learned about Stanford that has surprised you?
The pace is fast and the workload is, well, considerable. Before coming to GSB I had never imagined myself working hard with my classmates until past midnight. Definitely *NOT* the stereotype of drinking/partying/socializing b-school experience.
Thing you are most anxious about this year?
How time flies. As MSxers we are always joking about counting months if not days of our time left to be here at Stanford. With so many activities and opportunities on almost every corner of the campus, I need to stay laser focused on my goals and always prioritize how I spend my time wisely.
Thing you are most excited about this year?
The probability of this being the last full-time student experience in my life is 99.99999%. And the freedom to reflect, to recharge, and to do in mid-career is priceless. With that in mind, I wake up every morning eager to embrace the MSx experience. I have hand-picked many of my courses to intentionally push myself out of my comfort zone and experiment on the unknown. This is exactly what keeps me excited.
