“I feel empowered in so many ways by the CBS MBA programme”

Zhuoyan Jin, a current Copenhagen MBA participant, created an app that has been featured in Cosmopolitan and Trendhunter as one of the best breakup apps. She chose the CBS MBA because she wanted to develop her business knowledge in a sustainability context and explore entrepreneurship in the Nordic startup culture.

Full Time MBA

Why did you choose the Copenhagen MBA?

I am originally from China. I moved abroad alone when I was 15 years old, and I am now a Singapore citizen. After my first post-covid trip to Europe, I felt strongly that Europe was calling, and gaining an MBA experience came to my mind as an option.

Before learning about the CBS MBA, I was looking at some programs in Spain because I speak some Spanish but then I met an admissions manager from CBS and I was intrigued by the sustainability aspect of the program. I realized that it was super important for me to learn about business within a sustainability context. I care a lot about mother nature, especially for marine conservation as diving is one of my hobbies.

Another reason why I chose the Copenhagen MBA is that I discovered my “idle” startup project had earned some recognition and free PR. The app was featured in Cosmopolitan as one of the best breakup apps and in Trendhunter with a surprisingly high freshness score. I felt very excited and motivated, yet I didn’t feel confident to fully run my startup because I was lacking holistic business knowledge since my background is in design.

What the venture capitalist investment competition experience like for you?

The practice of being a VC has given me a better insight of what venture capital firms are looking to invest in early-stage startup companies. It’s a chance to peer into the whole ecosystem of startups of and VCs. I now have a better understanding of business plans, startup pitches, due diligence, and term sheets. All this knowledge is valuable for me in the future if I seek funding.

The VCIC experience was particularly interesting to me because I have been on the other side of the table. I founded my own startup, a breakup app called Halmos. I used to pitch to secure some soft funding and not specifically to a VC fund but it’s a scenario that I can definitely relate to.

After winning the VCIC round in Denmark, our team felt well prepared for the Cranfield VCIC competition thanks to the support from CBS. At Cranfield, we evaluated three startups and by the time we got to our third case we were told that our due diligence was near perfect. Making an investment decision at the VCIC competition was a challenging experience but our team spirit was high throughout. We were happy with the results, we placed 2^nd runner up and were very close to placing 1^st overall.

“The experience is highly useable because after each round they give constructive feedback what you are lacking and how you can improve. It felt less like a competition and more like a rich learning experience.”

Zhuoyan Jin

Full-Time MBA Class of 2023

What have you enjoyed about the programme so far?

The courses are interconnected and the way that we move from one module to the next makes a lot of sense as we progress into the year. The program is challenging but fulfilling and sustainability is truly at the core and is crucial for the next generation of leaders.

We are a small cohort with a kind vibe. I think CBS really chooses applicants that are the best fit for the program. In the class, we talk a lot about being in a psychologically safe space and it’s something that everyone is happy to prioritize. It makes the learning environment enjoyable. Within a short time we have developed strong bonds, it really feels like a family.

What is your Strategy Project?

I will be working with a cool startup company called Inniti. Since I am interested in working in the tech and startup space in Denmark I figured this was an ideal project for me to kickstart. The project was sourced by CBS and my project will be to help Inniti determine the next market that they should pursue outside of Europe.

***Inniti is a laboratory equipment digitalisation and automation company that develops connectivity solutions to make labs smarter. Inniti’s core SaaS solution is a cloud-based Platform and an IoT Connector device that logs data, remotely monitors equipment, and automates experiments.

Plans and hopes post-MBA?

Because of my passion for entrepreneurship, I am particularly interested to explore startup opportunities or working within a startup environment.

Along with the MBA learning experience, I also start to get curious about innovation consulting and VC thanks to the VCIC competition. I am a creative individual so I think being in one of these realms will be fulfilling. I’m looking forward to seeing opportunities unfold as I near graduation.

Has networking been helpful for you?

It’s been really great to network here in Denmark. The CBS alumni network is a large group and it really doesn’t matter how impressive the person is, everyone is willing to be helpful. I’m not the most business-oriented person, but just by being myself, people are willing to offer help and give advice.

Which concentration will you take?

Entrepreneurship for sure. I had read an article about excellence in innovation in Denmark and the emphasis of the article focus was on female entrepreneurs in Denmark. It really struck a chord with me so I am really looking forward to learning something so applicable.

What advice would you have to MBA considerers?

The most efficient people are the ones who can manage their time well. Learn from the peers around you. They are all amazing individuals from all over the world. Because of the high intensity of the MBA program, I’ve started to prioritize being more organized and productive and it’s made a big difference. It’s important to have some downtime and relax and having an automatic friend group makes it possible.

Take the MBA program as an opportunity for self-introspection. CBS offers a valuable course called the Leadership Discovery Process. What I have learnt is that we need to lead ourselves before leading others. During many reflections, I feel I understand myself more and I am a better friend to myself.

Oh I also need to mention that the wintertime can be a bit challenging, but that’s how you really enjoy and cherish the sun starting from the springtime! It’s just so beautiful and lovely and worth the long wait.

What are some memorable experiences you have had living in Copenhagen?

One of the highlights for sure is harbour bathing. The first time I jumped into the cold water I felt so empowered. “I have become the person I want to be!” and “I can do anything I want to do”... I know that sounds funny but I am being honest. My classmates were already in the water, and they were encouraging me who was hesitating on the dock. I’m so glad I did it. It’s easy to get addicted too because it feels so refreshing. Also, biking in Copenhagen is a major part of the lifestyle. Even though I had a little accident I really enjoy biking around and I feel like a happy Dane :P

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