Dan Cao, CEIBS MBA Class of 2025
Dan Cao, CEIBS MBA Class of 2025Age: 26
Hometown: Shanghai, China.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Boston University, Public Relations
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): BD manager/sales manager; Jiangsu Zhengdan Chemical Industry Co., Ltd; 3 years.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I made the decision to do an MBA because I wanted to switch my career path. And I believe that now is an ideal time for me to attend school due to the current economic climate. I want to explore new opportunities and see where it takes me!
Why did you choose CEIBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
There are two major reasons. Firstly, the CEIBS MBA programme ranks as the number 1 in Asia. Secondly, having experienced CEIBS’s teaching style and gained valuable insights through a non-degree programme, I was drawn to continue my education there. Plus, its location in Shanghai, my hometown, is ideal for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
My background involves R&D or innovation in the chemical field, so I can bring a unique perspective to discussions on technological advancements, product development, and fostering innovation within businesses. My experience in international markets and global business strategies in the chemical industry enables me to contribute insights on international business expansion and global supply chain management.
Most importantly, I am a cheerful person, so I can bring joy and laughter to class.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m passionate about dancing, especially Jazz, Hip Hop, and Kpop.
Post-MBA career interests:
I am particularly interested in entering the Manufacturing sector, with a focus on roles within Sales or Marketing functions.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Definitely apply early. Submitting my application in the first round, I believe, gave me a significant advantage.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I’d participate in the ‘Beyond Border Camp’ or attend a trial MBA class to truly experience the MBA life at CEIBS.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I guess I would have skipped the scholarship application process because I had to write an additional paper and prepare a lot of documents. However, what got me through was the realisation that it was also an acknowledgement of my achievements through the awarding of a scholarship.
What is your initial impression of the CEIBS students/culture/community?
I find it to be diverse and inclusive.
What is one thing you have learned about CEIBS that has surprised you?
The fact that CEIBS has campuses across three different continents!
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Balancing my time and setting priorities are my major concerns, whether it’s finding a job, maintaining a high GPA, getting to know each of my classmates, or simply enjoying myself.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about encountering various challenges and diverse experiences during the program, which I anticipate will contribute to my personal development, enhancing my resilience, adaptability, and broadening my worldview.
