The CEIBS MBA programme recently ran its first highly anticipated Pre-MBA Summer Boot Camp, with 36 university students from 27 top institutions worldwide, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, and the University of California, Los Angeles, gathering on CEIBS’ Shanghai campus. They came to experience first hand what a top-tier global MBA programme feels like, along with a rigorous yet engaging academic atmosphere. 

These students had an opportunity to tap into the pulse of China's economy and delve into some of the mysteries of the business world. By visiting renowned companies, participants uncovered the operational secrets behind successful business models. Through their exchanges with CEIBS faculty, inspirational speakers, CEIBS alumni, and each other, they forged connections with many like-minded peers, illuminating each other's personal and professional paths.

In Shanghai, a city brimming with charm and vitality, our Boot Campers not only marveled at its urban splendor, but gained a sense of the incredible growth of the city's business community. This unique urban landscape and its continuous drive forward added a vibrant touch to the Boot Camp, leaving an indelible mark on each participant.

Day 1: An Exciting Start

The Summer Boot Camp kicked off enthusiastically on the CEIBS campus. After completing check-in and registration, Programme Director Professor Lydia Price introduced the camp’s details and objectives. In the evening, an ice-breaking party helped participants begin building friendships, laying the foundation for the week-long learning journey ahead.

Day 2: Unlocking Potential

In the morning, participants took part in a curling challenge. Through teamwork and competition, they got to further know each other and build up their camaraderie. In the afternoon, Ms. Krista Pederson, Managing Director of Hogan Assessment Systems Asia Pacific, conducted a workshop on "Self-Understanding", guiding the students through in-depth self-assessment and reflection exercises, helping them accurately identify their strengths and areas for improvement and better understand themselves.

Day 3: Enhancing Interaction

The next morning began with Professor Lydia Price introducing the case study method and its basic principles to the students, helping them learn how to prepare for case discussions and effectively enhance classroom learning. In the afternoon, Mr. Yoann Delwarde, co-founder of Infinity Growth, conducted an interactive workshop, training the participants in persuasive communication and sales techniques. CEIBS alumni also actively interacted with the participants.

Day 4: Global Perspective

On the morning of Day 4, CEIBS Professor Ho-Wei Wu provided insights into Chinese economic data and policies, teaching students fundamental concepts and analytical tools in macroeconomics. In the afternoon, Professor Shameen Prashantham led the participants on a visit to Zotter Chocolate Company, where they gained insights into the opportunities and challenges family businesses face in expanding into emerging markets.

Day 5: Innovation Exploration

Leading off Day 5, distinguished CEIBS alumnus Jeff Pi shared insights on career development and negotiation skills with the participants. In the afternoon, Professor Majid Ghorbani led the students on a visit to Buy Quickly, focusing on how the company uses emerging technologies to create new business models. The participants also visited the live streaming studios of several well-known brands, gaining a deep understanding of the business operations behind "live commerce".

Day 6: An End, and a Beginning

On the final day of the summer boot camp, Professor Lydia Price delivered a deeply insightful session, exploring the relevance of brand and purpose in modern business. As the boot camp drew to a close, the highlight of the day was the final assessment and group presentations, where participants showcased their learnings. Their camaraderie and teamwork were evident, shining brightly during the presentations.

To wrap up, a grand graduation ceremony and celebration dinner was held for all the participants, who celebrated the weeks achievement and growth, their unforgettable journey, and the deep friendships formed. 

CEIBS has launched the CEIBS MBA Deferred Admission Programme specifically for outstanding undergraduate and post-graduate students, aiming to pave the way towards early excellence in business management. Scan the QR code below for more details about the programme:

Target participants for the CEIBS MBA Deferred Admission Programme: