Incoming MBA students at CEIBS join the school’s welcome party at the Vizcaya Club in Shanghai on Sept. 28. / Courtesy of Lee Eun-yul

Lee Eun-yul, 35, a former journalist at Yonhap Infomax and Reuters is now spending her second semester at China Europe International Business School (CEIBS). She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Studies and History at Yonsei University in 2001.

Why did you decide to study for an MBA?

I was eager to study on an MBA course as I worked as a business reporter. I worked at Yonhap Infomax in the business department for four years and a half and at Reuters for five years, covering macroeconomic policies and the stock market. I encountered many opportunities to acquire vast knowledge in economics while working, but lacked in-depth knowledge in the area. So I decided to learn economics and business in depth and get an experience of studying abroad before I got too old.

Why China?

At first, I was going to study in the U.S. I tried to get advice from people who are actually recruiting MBA graduates before I made a real choice. They said that although the Chinese market continues its rapid ascent, there are not many candidates with business savvy in both Korea and China. I came here to learn more about China on their recommendation.

Why did you choose CEIBS?

CEIBS was established by Chinese and European governments, so the school represents the Chinese government’s strong willingness to develop the school to a global level. I wanted to focus on learning about the Chinese market in this school with bright prospects.

What is so special about CEIBS?

CEIBS puts much effort on obtaining prestigious faculty members. For example, the current dean, John Quelch, was a senior associate dean at Harvard University’s Business School. The students here are outstanding individuals as well. The MBA is the only course taught here, and so it is the school’s sole focus. The school office even knows every student’s name, indicating that it is very interested in them.

Are there any special activities?

The school provides a mentoring program, in which an executive MBA becomes a mentor. Students apply for a mentor they wish to have and are interviewed by him or her. My mentor is a German consultant who worked in China for about 10 years. We agreed to have a meeting each month and share insights and ideas.

What kind of other activities are you planning to do?

I’m trying to get a summer internship at the moment. Because the Chinese market is still growing, I’m expecting to have various opportunities to experience real business in China. I also plan to write about my MBA life. Since my previous job involved writing, I believe I can leave a meaningful record.

Does the school help in job searches?

The career development center helps me a lot in finding a job. Its consultants try to match a student to an appropriate workplace. Although Chinese students seem to find a job through the school more easily through its recommendation than international students, I expect the school to further develop a career services program for international students as it becomes more global and plans to double the number of students by building a second campus next year.

What was your goal in doing an MBA?

Establishing a long-term goal is my aim. I came here to look back upon my past and set a goal for my life. I have encountered various opportunities to examine my life including visiting companies and meeting people. I want to think deeply about my future job and life.

Interview by Kwon Eun-young