Rene Zhu, CEIBS MBA Class of 2025
Rene Zhu, CEIBS MBA Class of 2025Age: 34
Hometown: Shanghai, China
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Shanghai International Studies University, with a Major in English
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Luxury Marketing, 11 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As a digital marketing expert in the luxury and premium consumer goods industry, I aim to advance my career by acquiring comprehensive business skills through a business school education. This step is pivotal in equipping me with the necessary skills to become a successful head of marketing in the near future and evolve into a strategic leader over time. Additionally, I am keen to explore the exciting possibilities of starting my own business venture.
Why did you choose CEIBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I was impressed by the “China Depth, Global Breadth” philosophy embodied by CEIBS during my participation as the host of the “Immersive Travel with CEIBS MBA” project, which showcased the programme’s diversity and open-minded creativity.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I bring an ethos of embracing life at one’s own pace and never refusing the opportunity to explore and experience something novel. My mantra is the same as that of CEIBS MBA 2025: to “See Beyond Success”, which I believe will add a distinctive perspective to our class.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m a travel enthusiast fueled with curiosity and courage, having travelled across 45 countries, with half of these journeys embarked upon solo.
Additionally, I’ve been a freelance trip leader for a decade, guiding teams to exotic destinations like Egypt and Iceland.
During my university years, I contributed as a volunteer teacher and researcher in Ningxia Province and have been a guest lecturer at the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center.
Post-MBA career interests:
My focus post-MBA is on luxury fashion marketing, where I plan to leverage my skills in strategy planning, digital marketing, and CRM.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would emphasise the importance of meticulous evaluation in selecting schools and programmes. Once a decision is made, commit to it wholeheartedly and without any reservations.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Nothing. All the past counts. Never regret or try to make impossible changes. Always look forward!
What is your initial impression of the CEIBS students/culture/community?
The community at CEIBS is remarkably open-minded, diverse, and vibrant, offering an enriching environment for growth and learning.
What is one thing you have learned about CEIBS that has surprised you?
I was pleasantly surprised by the profound level of connection and the unwavering support from the alumni network.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I have been away from academic life for more than 10 years, which may become a big challenge for my first year. But I do believe the courses in MBA programme will be more practical other than merely theories.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
In my first year, I’m most excited about the chance to meet and learn from individuals with diverse backgrounds. This presents a unique opportunity to broaden my horizons, opening up a world of new possibilities in both my career and personal life. The anticipation of encountering the unexpected makes this journey even more thrilling.
