A worldwide network is mandatory in today’s modern business world. Building a global network is a cornerstone of the Kellogg-WHU Executive MBA program (EMBA). Admission to the program gives participants instant access to international business experts.
Each EMBA class comprises around 70% of international students with 14 years of work experience on average. The 2022 Financial Times top-ranked German EMBA program is also known for its extensive network with around 65,000 alumni in their global network.
Immersive international programs round out a student’s experience. Taking part in a visit to Japan in March, the Kellogg-WHU EMBA students expanded their personal and professional development in a country that seamlessly blends business innovation and traditional culture.
“I must admit, I have been waiting for this trip since the very first day I joined the program,” EMBA student Marina Voudouri, a Global Issues and Stakeholder Engagement Manager at Bayer relays excitedly.
Through a cultural awareness workshop, students learned the importance of Japan’s food and manners traditions, encompassing nature, simplicity, balance, and harmony.
“In the cultural awareness workshop, we learned everything follows a path, a way, a ‘Do,’” Marina explains. “Perhaps this explains Japan’s resilience and apparent optimism, respect, and calmness.”
The week-long agenda was rich in visits to internationally renowned businesses such as the Development Bank of Japan, McKinsey Japan, Asahi Kasei (R&D/Intellectual Property), Sumitomo Mitsui Bank, Sun Metalon (a start-up known for 3D metal printing), and the 500+-year-old Sake Brewery: Kenbishi. In total, 12 companies were visited, spanning the entire business field of knowledge.