In this edition of our Admissions Director Q&A we meet Jennifer Zhao, Deputy Director of MBA Marketing and Admissions at CEIBS, who joins us to talk about MBA admissions.
Jennifer joined CEIBS in 2006. As Deputy Director, she has full responsibility for marketing, admissions and scholarships in the MBA. Jennifer’s career at CEIBS has also included years of service in the Career Development Center, providing general support and coordination to the team. Prior to CEIBS, she worked in Human Resources in various industries and locations and has extensive experience in talent selection and development. Jennifer holds an MSA degree with a concentration in Human Resource Management from Central Michigan University and a BA degree from the University of International Business and Economics.
Read our conversation below for Jennifer’s insights into writing your application essay, preparing for your interview, and some interesting aspects of the MBA.
Clear Admit: What is the one aspect of your programme that you wish applicants knew more about?
Jennifer Zhao: CEIBS MBA programme distinguishes from other top business schools with its unique feature of blending international exposure with strong Chinese market expertise. While offering students immersive exposure to global business topics, the programme enhances students’ understanding of doing business in China through extensive academic and experiential learning opportunities, including China specific cases, China modules, Integrated China Strategy Project (ICSP), China Discovery Week, etc. The in-depth knowledges and experiences not only strengthen students’ understanding of the Chinese market but also equip them with practical skills that are highly valued in the global business environment.
CA: Walk us through the life of an application in your office from an operational standpoint. What happens between the time an applicant clicks “submit” and the time the committee offers a final decision?
JZ: Once an applicant submits their application, it goes through a multi-step review process. Initially, our admissions team conducts a thorough assessment of the application to ensure all required materials are included. The application is then evaluated by our admissions committee, which considers various factors such as academic background, professional experience, and personal achievements. Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview. After the interview, the admissions committee reconvenes to make a final decision, taking into account the interview performance and overall application strength. The entire process is designed to be holistic and comprehensive, ensuring we select the most promising candidates.
CA: How does your team approach the essay portion of the application specifically? What are you looking for as you read an essay? Are there common mistakes that applicants should try to avoid? What is one key thing they should keep in mind as they sit down to write?
JZ: We approach the essay portion with a keen interest in understanding the applicant’s personal and professional journey. We look for authenticity, clarity of thought, and a strong alignment with CEIBS’ values and mission. Common mistakes include generic responses and a lack of personal insight. Applicants should avoid trying to fit into a perceived mould and instead focus on sharing their unique story. One key thing to keep in mind is to be genuine and reflective, demonstrating self-awareness and a clear sense of purpose.
CA: Could you tell us about your interview process? Approximately how many applicants do you interview? Who conducts the interview (students, admissions officers, alumni) and what is the nature of the interview (resume-based, application-based, behavioural)? Will your admissions interviews be in-person or virtual for the 2024-2025 admissions season?
JZ: Our interview process is designed to be comprehensive and insightful. We interview approximately 90% of our applicants. The interviews are conducted by admissions officers, and faculty members. The nature of the interview is a mix of resume-based and behavioural questions, aiming to understand the candidate’s experiences, motivations, and fit with our programme. For the 2024-2025 admissions season, we will continue to offer both in-person and virtual interview options to accommodate applicants from various locations.
CA: What is your testing policy? Do you offer exam waivers? Why or why not?
JZ: At CEIBS, we require applicants to submit GMAT, GRE, or CEIBS Admission Test scores as part of their application. We do not offer exam waivers because these tests provide a standardised measure of an applicant’s analytical and quantitative skills, which are essential for success in our rigorous academic programme. However, we do take a holistic view of each application, and strong performance in other areas can complement the test scores.
CA: In the application data form, many schools ask for information about work experience, activities, hobbies, and much more. What advice would you give to applicants as they approach this component of the application process?
JZ: When approaching this component of the application, applicants should be thorough and reflective. It’s important to provide a complete and honest account of your work experience, activities, and hobbies. Highlighting leadership roles, significant achievements, and unique interests can help to create a well-rounded profile. Applicants should think about how their experiences have shaped their skills and perspectives, and how these align with their career goals and the CEIBS MBA programme.
CA: Tell us briefly about two popular courses at your institution.
JZ: Two popular courses at CEIBS are “China within the World” and “Leadership and Change Management.” “China within the World” provides deep insights into China’s economic and business landscape, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the global market with a focus on China. “Leadership and Change Management” equips students with the tools and frameworks to lead organisations through periods of change, fostering resilience and adaptability.
CA: Is there anything else you’d like to highlight about your MBA programme or admissions process?
JZ: I’d like to highlight the strong sense of community at CEIBS. Our diverse student body and close-knit alumni network create a supportive environment that extends beyond the classroom. Additionally, our strategic location in Shanghai, a global financial hub, offers unparalleled opportunities for networking and career advancement. We are committed to fostering leadership, innovation, and a global perspective in all our students, preparing them to make a significant impact in their careers.
