Zhiquan (Chuck) Tian, Rotman MBA Class of 2024
Age: 32
Hometown: Zhenjiang, China
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Marine Engineering; First graduate degree: Lehigh University, Mechanical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 8, healthcare
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After spending my entire career in R&D, I am interested in exploring more functions and industries to broaden my skills, so I decide to apply for the MBA. 8 years in R&D was long enough to learn and study so I feel like it’s a perfect chance to make the move.
Why did you choose Toronto Rotman? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Rotman has a great reputation, and strong academic record, and alumni network. They also have the Sandra Rotman Centre for Health Sector Strategy, which looks at healthcare and artificial intelligence, which I am interested in. Honestly, academic performance and alumni are two major factors under my consideration, as well as their focus on healthcare.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
The class of 2024 is the most diversified, inclusive, dynamic, and enthusiastic cohort I have ever seen. No matter who you are and where you are from, you will feel extremely comfortable in this amazing group.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
As a meat lover, I had 3 burgers in KFC when I was 7 as a reward for getting a full mark on one math test.
Post-MBA career interests:
Consulting/Strategy/Healthcare
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Spike factors. While listing factors, I have a better understanding of my strengths and how those merits can help me to overcome challenges in the future.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
To contact more frequently with the admission team in order to understand more and better about the MBA program, Toronto, and Canada.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Actually, I enjoyed all parts of the application. It is like a self-scan. After completing it, I was more convinced that Rotman is the right place for me to study.
What is your initial impression of the Toronto Rotman students/culture/community?
Rotman is super warm, friendly, and engaging. As an international student, I don’t need to adjust myself to this new environment. Instead, I feel like Rotman prepared everything to make my transit seamlessly.
What is one thing you have learned about Toronto Rotman that has surprised you?
Frankly speaking, I have a high expectation for the Rotman MBA but what Rotman does surpasses it. I am surprised that how they did it. All activities and events in PreMBA are arranged perfectly, and academic classes are super helpful and useful in terms of practical application after graduation.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Probably my GPA. I am interested in consulting industry and GPA is a critical measurement when students look for internships.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Definitely networking. As a newcomer to Canada and Rotman, I like to expose myself and network with students, alumni, and industry experts to absorb knowledge and information as much as I can.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
Not really. Covid in China is controlled well and here in Rotman as well. I sense that Rotman tries their best to minimize the negative impact of Covid on current and prospective students.
