Sunjung Lim

“Innovative marketer blending creativity and strategy, driven to inspire and achieve global impact”

Hometown: Seoul, South Korea

Fun Fact About Yourself: I am a certified hair designer and barber, and I also hold certifications as a baker and barista

Undergraduate School and Major: BS in Biological Sciences from HKUST

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Product marketing manager at The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. After graduation, I plan to pursue new career opportunities in Shanghai rather than returning to my previous role.

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

After working non-stop for eight years, I felt it was the perfect time to pause and evaluate whether I was heading in the right direction. Pursuing an MBA seemed like the ideal opportunity to reflect, gain new perspectives, and enhance my skills for future growth.

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

The first word that comes to mind when I think of CEIBS is “acceptance.” This reflects the school’s welcoming environment, where diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas are embraced, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among students and faculty.

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?

What truly stood out to me about this MBA program was the school’s motto, “China depth, global breadth.” It highlighted the unique opportunity to immerse myself in Chinese market, which is one of the largest markets in the world while also gaining insights into the global market from distinguished professors and a diverse student body.

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

The course I was most eager to take coming into the program was the marketing course taught by Professor Hyunyoung Park. I had heard from several alumni that it was one of the standout courses, and after completing it, I fully understood why. The course not only provided a comprehensive understanding of key marketing theories but also encouraged us to think critically and at a deeper level. Professor Park’s teaching style was highly engaging, constantly pushing us to analyze real-world marketing challenges and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, which significantly enhanced my learning experience.

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

One of the experiences I’ve most enjoyed so far has been the Shanghai module, where we visited various European firms based in Shanghai, including IKEA and Volvo. This opportunity allowed me to gain valuable insights into how these global companies operate within the Chinese market, as well as the challenges and strategies they employ to navigate the local business environment. It was a great way to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world business cases and deepen my understanding of both European and Chinese market dynamics.

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

One of the most significant accomplishments in my career has been leading the successful launch of Aveda’s Invati Advanced Ultra, a groundbreaking hair-loss franchise. This achievement required meticulous planning, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and a deep understanding of the market. The launch not only reinforced Aveda’s position as a leader in hair care but also allowed me to showcase my ability to execute high-impact projects that deliver value to both the company and its customers.

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

I would highly recommend prospective MBAs attend trial classes or participate in seminars offered by CEIBS. These sessions provide valuable insights into the teaching style, course content, and overall academic environment of the program. They also give prospective students a chance to experience the dynamic interactions between professors and students, as well as understand what can be expected during the MBA journey. It’s a great way to make an informed decision and feel more prepared for the program.

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

Academically, I was surprised by how eager the majority of students are to learn and share diverse perspectives in class. This collaborative environment has enriched my learning experience and broadened my understanding of various topics. On the non-academic side, I was impressed by the strong sense of community and support among students, with everyone actively engaging in extracurricular activities and helping one another, fostering an environment of collaboration beyond the classroom. This has made my overall experience more fulfilling and has helped me build lasting connections.

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

If you’re an international student, consider learning Chinese to fully engage with the program and make the most of your experience.