Estelle Xu

“Purpose-driven change-maker, blending wellbeing and leadership to inspire transformative growth and lasting impact in business”

Hometown: Shanghai, China

Fun Fact About Yourself: I’ve had long hair for over 10 years without cutting it short, and now it almost reaches my ankle. It’s become a defining part of my signature look.

Undergraduate School and Major: Tongji University, Bachelor’s Degree, College of Electronics and Information: Automation; Centenary University, Master of Arts in Happiness Studies

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Account Manager at Sensormatic by Johnson Controls, not returning to this company post grad

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you?

Having spent over eight years as an account manager, working closely with diverse teams both within and outside my company, I noticed a growing sense of pessimism among colleagues. This shift in workplace atmosphere became a real concern for me, especially for front-line workers who often bear the brunt of these challenges.

My renewed interest in positive psychology and happiness studies made me realize that these principles could be applied in the business world with minimal costs and substantial benefits. The key challenge, however, is influencing leaders and convincing them of this approach, particularly in these uncertain times.

I wanted to transition into a role where I could actively advocate for employee wellbeing while gaining the skills to influence decision-makers. After researching, I found that an MBA would not only help me make this career shift but also connect me with future leaders whom I could positively impact from the outset. We urgently need more optimism and innovative thinking in workplaces, and this felt like the perfect time to take action.

When you think of your school, what is the first word that comes to mind and why?

Real.

CEIBS isn’t an ivory tower—it’s a dynamic environment where we engage with people from all walks of life and various professional backgrounds. Interacting with such a diverse cohort has exposed me to new perspectives and approaches to business and leadership. Nearly every class is thoughtfully designed to provide practical knowledge that we can immediately apply in real-world situations, bridging the gap between theory and practice. The group projects, in particular, simulate real-life challenges and teach us how to navigate different perspectives and work styles effectively.

One of the most refreshing aspects of CEIBS is the emphasis on authenticity. Here, we’re encouraged to act as our true selves, rather than conform to predefined standards or expectations. This openness creates an environment where we can reflect on who we are and focus on our personal growth. We’re not just learning business concepts; we’re learning to be better versions of ourselves, which is invaluable in both our professional and personal lives.

Additionally, the connections we build at CEIBS go beyond mere networking. Within just two months, I’ve formed meaningful friendships based on trust and mutual support. Whether it’s for academic guidance or personal matters, I’ve found classmates I can rely on. These genuine connections are a testament to the collaborative and supportive culture that CEIBS fosters, making it a place where you can find not just colleagues, but lifelong friends.

CEIBS feels real because it bridges theory and practice, encourages authenticity, and fosters genuine connections. The diverse cohort and practical curriculum help us apply what we learn to real-world scenarios. It’s a place where we can be ourselves, grow personally, and build lasting friendships based on trust and mutual support.

What are one or two key aspects of this MBA program that stood out among the others, and why were they so important to you?

The first key aspect is CEIBS’ location. My family and I have always lived in Shanghai, and we plan to stay here in the foreseeable future. Being able to pursue my MBA without relocating allows me to stay close to my family while focusing on my professional growth. This balance between personal and academic life was essential for me.

The second aspect is CEIBS’ unique emphasis on “China depth, global breadth.” While studying in China, I have the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of classmates from around the world. This exposure broadens my perspectives and enhances my understanding of different cultures and business practices. Additionally, the international modules and exchange programs offer invaluable global experiences. For instance, I’m heading to Dubai next month to learn about their culture and how businesses operate there. This global exposure while staying rooted in China is crucial for my future career in a globalized business environment.

What course were you/are you most interested in taking coming into the program and why?

The course I was most interested in taking is Organizational Behavior. Given my passion for driving positive changes in businesses, this course offers a crucial foundation for understanding people—their behavior, collaboration dynamics, and what it takes to effectively lead and influence them. It directly aligns with my goal of creating impactful, people-centered changes within organizations.

What made this course even more meaningful was the example set by both of our Organizational Behavior professors. They embody considerate and empathetic leadership, both inside and outside the classroom. They genuinely care about our journey in this program and dedicate time and effort to understand and support us. Their leadership style reflects the kind of leader I aspire to be—someone who not only drives results but also prioritizes the growth and well-being of others.

What club, activity, or experience at the school have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

The experience I’ve enjoyed the most so far is preparing for the TEDxCEIBS event pitch. Organizing a TEDxCEIBS event has been a personal goal ever since I attended an offline TEDx event at CEIBS about two years ago. I was deeply inspired by the innovative ideas shared and felt a strong desire to contribute to this platform. To gain firsthand experience, I volunteered at the event early this year, and once I joined the program, I took the initiative to pitch for the opportunity to lead it myself.

To prepare for the pitch, I reached out to last year’s organizer, who generously shared valuable insights and lessons. With this knowledge in hand, I engaged some of my new classmates, and we enthusiastically formed a team. Each of us brought unique strengths to the table, and we supported each other throughout the entire process, even collaborating during holiday breaks. Working alongside such a talented and reliable group of classmates was truly a rewarding experience.

Despite losing the first pitch, we chose not to give up. Instead, we joined forces with another team for a second attempt. This collaboration gave us an opportunity to connect with more classmates and appreciate the diverse skills and perspectives each person contributed. As we worked towards a common goal, I found immense satisfaction in the sense of unity and teamwork that developed within the group.

Although we didn’t win the final pitch, the journey was incredibly fulfilling. We not only built strong bonds but also gained reliable teammates and great friends along the way. This experience has had a lasting impact on me, both personally and professionally, teaching me valuable lessons about collaboration, resilience, and the importance of pursuing shared goals with determination.

What do you consider the biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

One of my biggest accomplishments was navigating a challenging situation involving a team member, Jane, and a client with differing cultural expectations. I hired Jane for her confidence and enthusiasm, but her straightforward approach and commitment to work-life balance led to friction with a client who expected stricter availability.

The client requested I either regulate Jane’s behavior or find a replacement. I valued Jane’s capabilities and respected her wellbeing choices, so instead of imposing restrictions, I offered to be her backup during her gym hours and assured the client that I would be available for urgent issues. I also introduced regular check-ins with Jane to help her prioritize tasks effectively.

By balancing the client’s needs with Jane’s work style, we improved our workflow, minimized last-minute issues, and upheld a positive work culture. This experience taught me valuable lessons in leadership and empathy, and I’m proud of the outcome.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? 

I highly recommend the podcast No Stupid Questions by Angela Duckworth and Mike Maughan. I’ve been listening to it for over two years, and it covers a wide range of human-centered topics, from “When Do You Become an Adult?” to “Is It Okay to Be an Introvert?” The discussions offer insightful perspectives on understanding ourselves and others, shedding light on things I might have overlooked in my day-to-day life. The hosts bring curiosity and humor to every topic, making complex ideas easy to relate to.

For me, business isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about people. This podcast provides a casual and engaging way to learn more about human behavior and motivations, which is invaluable for anyone aiming to lead effectively and build strong connections in their careers.

What are two things you have learned at your school that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

In my accounting class, I was surprised to learn that much of the crucial information isn’t in the financial statements themselves but in the accompanying notes. Additionally, there’s a significant amount of flexibility in accounting decisions, such as choosing between inventory methods like LIFO or FIFO, or adopting a conservative approach. As users of financial statements, we must learn to read beyond the numbers and understand the nuances and choices behind them. It’s far more complex than the straightforward math I was used to in earlier education.

On the non-academic side, I was equally surprised to discover how many of my classmates have side “jobs” or passions beyond their primary careers. Some are entrepreneurs, while others are consultants for specific projects, or they pursue creative outlets as vloggers, dancers, musicians, artists, or designers. This diversity of interests and commitments has been eye-opening and inspiring, showing me the importance of embracing multiple facets of one’s identity.

What advice would you give to help prospective MBAs gain admission into an MBA program?

My first piece of advice is to be yourself. The admissions process is a two-way selection—you are evaluating the school just as much as they are evaluating you. It’s crucial to talk to current students, alumni, and faculty, and to join events that allow you to experience the program firsthand. This will help you understand whether the school’s culture and values truly align with your own.

In addition to exploring the program, spend time reflecting on your journey. Go through the key decisions you’ve made in your life and identify moments you are genuinely proud of. Taking the time to ask yourself “why” at each step will help you articulate your motivations clearly in your application. Admissions teams value authenticity and want to understand what drives you beyond just your achievements.

While scores do matter, they aren’t the only factor. It’s important to be mindful of your academic performance, but don’t let that overshadow the significance of your essays and application materials. Work on your essays while preparing for exams, as this dual approach not only strengthens your application but also prepares you for the analytical and reflective nature of the MBA journey.

Another critical aspect is understanding why you want an MBA. Ask yourself questions like: Do I genuinely need an MBA to achieve my goals? Why this specific program? What do I hope to gain from it, and what unique value can I bring to the community? Having clear answers to these questions will help you present a compelling case to the admissions committee.

Lastly, remember that the MBA experience is about building connections and sharing experiences. If you ever want more insights or need guidance, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to hel