Huijue Ye and Hanh Nguyen—two graduates from Copenhagen Business School’s class of 2018—tell you what to expect from the MBA
Two words that spring to mind when thinking about any MBA program are hectic and rewarding. At least that’s the sense I get while speaking with Huijue Ye and Hanh Nguyen.The two recent MBA graduates from ’s class of 2018 have just embarked on their post-MBA journeys, ready to reap the rewards of a year well spent in the heart of Denmark.
No better time then, for them to reflect on their experience and reveal to the incoming MBA class of 2019 what to expect from the year ahead.
Huijue—who entered The Copenhagen MBA after studying a BA and MA in journalism in China, and working for almost five years as a financial journalist—has just moved to Denmark with her husband.
She says Copenhagen shone through as the best place to adjust her career path, and Copenhagen Business School was the obvious choice for her MBA. “I heard that it was the top in the Nordic market,” she recalls.
Once she began the MBA, Huijue admits it was very intensive, and that incoming students should be ready to knuckle down.
“You need to be very clear about what you are going to achieve,” she says. “You always need to have a very clear plan of what you are going to do today, what you are going to do in two weeks, and what you are going to do for the whole year—I think that’s crucial.”
She also says that there is a very close link between the MBA and job hunting throughout the year—Huijue started her search in early March, participated in myriad company visits, and networked at every event she attended.
“You need to reach out to people and have coffee meetings, talk about different roles, and the job market,” she asserts. “I think it’s understandable, because it’s quite a small society and [a lot] comes from recommendations.”
Indeed, Huijue applied for and landed her current role with Danske Bank after conversations with company representatives at a career event during on the MBA.
MBAs who remain in Denmark after graduating from —roughly 50% choose to do so—can expect a better work and life balance than if they sought pastures new in China or the US, for example.
“It’s much more work life balance, so to speak,” Huijue explains, having now lived in all three countries. “People appreciate their own quality of life [more].”
Hanh (pictured below, right) mimics Huijue’s sentiments, adding that she thinks Copenhagen offers a much more stable policy for international students after graduating.
Around the time she was searching for an MBA program the US was in the aftermath of the presidential election. Hanh admits that she wanted to avoid a potentially unstable situation after the election. “I wasn’t sure whether I’d be able to recoup my investment into my education afterwards,” she says.
The Copenhagen MBA’s incoming class of 2019 can also expect a holistic education in responsible management, sustainability, and how to guide diverse teams into a future where clean energy sources and ethical leadership will be the pendulum on which the business world swings.
“Especially for someone like me,” Hanh says, “who was coming from an emerging market, where sustainability was usually compromised for fast growth, it really was a no brainer for me to seek an education regarding sustainability.”
The Responsible Management module is a 50-hour course that runs throughout the Copenhagen MBA. It runs alongside the Integrated Strategy Project and the Leadership Discovery Process. During the Leadership Discovery Process, students are taken on a top-secret trip into the Swedish wilderness—a stand-out experience, Hanh says.
READ: Leadership: Copenhagen MBA Students Take Top Secret Trip Into The Swedish Wilderness
“It was very challenging, both physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she adds. “It really led us to simulate all of the leadership modules we’d studied during the year.
“We got to see the different cultural and personal leadership preferences of our classmates, and to learn how to lead and manage a team with different dynamics. But, I also think our bonding beyond the classroom was developed further as we had to look out for each other!”
Hanh’s personal and professional leadership development on the MBA led to her landing a role with a top consulting firm in Denmark—she started this month.
She’s excited for the post-MBA journey, she says, in a country that is not only at the forefront of sustainability, but also at the cutting edge of the tech and digital world. Before the MBA she held roles with two US technology giants, and the sector is a passion of hers.
Scandinavia, then, seems tailor-made for her career development. But, she has some closing words of advice for the next cohort of MBAs at Copenhagen Business School, to ensure they maximize their potential.
“The heavy workload is coming for them,” she quips. “It’s really a marathon, so you have to stay focused, work hard to manage your energy, and when you’re tired and stressed remember why you’re here at !”
Student Reviews
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
