Ni Tang, USC Marshall MBA Class of 2021
Age: 28
Hometown: Shenyang, China
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Central University of Finance and Economics, BA in Accounting
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 1.5 years in telecommunications, 2 years in Entertainment and 2.5 years in real estate (family business)
Why business school? Why now?
After working as a finance manager for several years, especially as part of my family business, I realize I can deliver more meaningful, long-lasting impacts as a corporate strategy professional than a corporate finance role. Besides working for others, I also want to establish my own company, which needs vision, network, soft skills, opportunities and resources. An MBA program can prepare me well for those goals both academically and professionally.
I have worked for 6 years. I keep challenging myself and assuming more and more responsibilities. Now I need a powerful propeller to rocket me into a higher level, which otherwise will take me much more time to reach. An MBA program is an effective and efficient choice for me.
Why USC Marshall? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Marshall is famous for its alumni network. Before I became a trojan, I had already received a lot of help from USC during my application. MBA students replied to my emails in detail, alumni gave me advice about my career path, and faculty were ready to help.
Thanks to this, both my husband and I are in this program now. Different from the cutthroat competition in some business schools, Marshall embraces a collaborative culture and students nurture lifelong friendships. For international students, a diverse and inclusive environment really means a lot.
Other factors are as follows:
- MBA students from Marshall have competitive advantages in job markets along the west coast.
- This year, MBA program at Marshall obtained STEM qualifications, with which international students can have more opportunities to work and live in America.
- Marshall also provides world-class entrepreneurship classes. Moreover, we are climbing the rankings in the past 3 years and have kept up the momentum. Next year, Wharton’s current dean will take office at Marshall.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
My experience in and insights about China. Moreover, I bring Chinese culture to this class, which creates more diversity.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am a free diver.
Post-MBA career interests?
Corporate strategy or strategic marketing in fashion industry and entrepreneurship.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to alumni and current MBA students.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
To all international students, for whom English is the second language, you can’t pay too much attention to English.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Stop working while applying. Talking with Current MBA students and only focusing on the most important parts can save a lot of time.
What is your initial impression of USC Marshall’s students/culture/community?
The atmosphere is so vibrant.
One thing you have learned about USC Marshall that has surprised you?
The academic rigor is far beyond my expectation. Term 1 is so intense.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
My English will hinder me from networking and securing a summer internship.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I have made so many friends at Marshall. Everyone is excellent and has his or her own strengths. I have learned a lot from them when working as a team. They also help me with American culture.
