Justin Chong, IESE MBA Class of 2023
Age: 27
Hometown: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: BSc Economics and Finance at Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (2012 – 2015)
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6 years working in the primary research industry servicing investment funds
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I was attracted to doing an MBA to develop the management skills that I knew was required to propel my career, as well as to have the opportunity to live in a completely new environment whilst getting to know many smart and incredible people. I’ve always been drawn to the thrill of adventure, so the mundaneness of COVID lockdowns greatly heightened my desire to enroll.
Why did you choose IESE? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
IESE was my first and only choice. Their focus on General Management allowed for more flexibility in exploring different career options and the values embodied in IESE’s mission resonated deeply with me. Of course, the sunny beaches of Barcelona didn’t hurt either!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
My experience working in a new yet fast-growing industry, along with growing up in Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong, allows me to offer a unique and multicultural perspective in class discussions.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
I plan to try every karaoke bar in Barcelona and will eventually sing a Spanish song!
Post-MBA career interests:
Still in the process of exploring the many different opportunities available – ask me again in a few months!
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
- What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to alumni from various schools to get their firsthand experience and advice.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Taking the GMAT when I was still unsure of my motivation to pursue an MBA. Once I decided on my goal, prepping for the GMAT became much less painful!
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The feeling that my experience wasn’t ‘prestigious’ enough to be accepted. But through the support of close friends and mentors, I overcame those doubts, took a chance on myself, and haven’t looked back since!
What is your initial impression of the IESE students/culture/community?
Everyone from professors, alumni, administration staff to classmates is genuinely invested in helping you to succeed! The culture strikes a great balance between striving for academic excellence and enjoying all that living in Spain has to offer!
What is one thing you have learned about IESE that has surprised you?
The wealth of diversity that our class possesses! Classmates come from so many different countries and have incredibly varied career backgrounds, greatly enriching the group discussions we have in class.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
IESE really impressed me with their dedication and efforts to minimize the effects of COVID on students and their unwavering commitment to staying open in-person classes sealed my decision to join IESE
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Keeping up with rigorous academic demands! But I’ve already met my team and they’re amazing, so together I’m confident we can tackle anything thrown our way!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Forming meaningful relationships and lasting memories with all my incredible classmates. Improving my broken Spanish would be fantastic too!
