Elaine Zhang

Fun fact about yourself 

I have three kids including a set of boy/girl twins. My elder son is 14 years old while the twins are 11 years old. I spend all my extra time with my family and can’t have enough fun with the kids. 

What led you to decide to pursue an EMBA, and why did you choose INSEAD in particular?

During the COVID pandemic, business travel took a halt. I found that I had more time to spare and wanted to do something meaningful in life.  

It had been 20 years since I had gotten my MBA degree and I felt a strong urge to go back to school to systematically learn the latest knowledge and tools for leadership and management. 

A reputable EMBA programme was the natural answer. 

I have spent all my career life in banking and my social circle is quite narrowly focusing in the banking and financing industry too. Although my clients are from different industries, I always felt that our conversations were finance-related. I was yearning for a more diversified personal network and getting nourishment from friends coming from various countries and industries. 

Out of all EMBA programmes available in Singapore, INSEAD was definitely the best in terms of its academic focus and academic quality. It is also the only one that offers true diversification for the student community and strong alumni support. 

For a busy professional who wants to upgrade myself, a global leading business school with a campus in Singapore is like a dream-come-true combination. 

Could you describe your experience so far? The classes, the curriculum, your fellow participants, the professors?

So far, my experience in INSEAD's GEMBA programme exceeds my expectations in all aspects.  

The professors are all very knowledgeable, dedicated and friendly. I enjoyed every minute listening to their teaching as the content is very insightful and practical for my daily work. 

My fellow participants are from various countries and industries. The sharing in class offers a wide range of industry insights, cultures and experiences. The networking sessions are fun and refreshing. New friendships are forging strongly! 

Has the EMBA helped you in your career so far?  

Yes. I have applied the theories I learnt in the Leadership and Strategy courses at my work place and I can see improved organisational behaviour in my team. My presentation and teamwork skills improved tremendously through the class projects working with different team mates. 

I can understand my firm and the way we do things better as I learned how to manage in a more strategic way. 

Could you tell us more about the Leadership Development Programme experience?

The surveys helped me to understand my strengths and weakness better, while the group discussions and support from my LDP group offered me valuable feedback and solutions. My career coach is patient in listening and knowledgeable in advising. I managed to broaden my perspective by looking into things from all dimensions. 

What advice would you give to someone who might be interested in pursuing an INSEAD Masters programme?

Be prepared that you will have 16 months of intense learning and networking journey ahead of you.  

Make sure work and family support is there so that you can get the most from this programme.

And finally, “Don’t wait, just do it”.