Zhenpeng Chen

Can you tell us a little more about yourself and your personal/professional journey so far?

I graduated from an art college. When I realised I wasn't meeting my income goals as a graphic designer, I decided to study accounting and finance from scratch. I joined an insurance company and found the job was wonderful. My leader always guided me, and I was promoted to be my company's youngest financial services director in six years.
 
Any fun facts about yourself you would be willing to share?

I am a finance-related certificate collector. I passed all exams of CFA, ACCA, and FRM. And I am on the way to passing SOA and CQF. Even though such certificates may not relate to my career, I can make friends with other people who are also pursuing the same certificates.
 
So, what made you decide to take on the EMFin programme at INSEAD, amongst the other programmes out there?

I wanted to take an Executive Master's Programme in Singapore and INSEAD seemed to be the best one for me.

After comparing the GEMBA, TIEMBA and EMFin programmes, the EMFin stood out as the most suitable for me as a financial professional.
 
You've completed module 1. Please share your thoughts on your classmates, the faculty and classroom experience?

The total experience is excellent. Though I am an ACCA member and CFA charterholder, I am still acquiring so much new knowledge and learning how to apply these from classes. 
 
Would you like to share any classroom experiences or anecdotes so far?

Before I joined the programme, I felt I was an excellent financial professional. Once I joined, my classmates surprised me by showing that they are also all excellent financial professionals. They are friendly and willing to share their knowledge and experience. I was impressed, and I am thankful to the programme for providing this platform for us to connect.   
 
Any advice, application or admissions tips for someone thinking of joining the EMFin programme?

Prepare your application as early as possible and be yourself in the interviews.
 
What are your plans post-graduation?

I plan on utilising what I get from INSEAD, like advanced financial knowledge, leadership skills and international perspectives to grow my existing business more efficiently.

Any parting words of wisdom?

Sometimes no choice is the best choice.