Wesley Hu

Cambridge Judge Business School

Home City and Country: San Francisco, USA

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Uber Technologies, Strategic Operations Manager

How has studying business in the United Kingdom enriched your learning experience? Studying business in the UK has provided me with a truly global perspective and enhanced my leadership abilities. My classmates are from 49 different countries, and I have gained so much cultural and intellectual insights from my cohort, through both class discussion and social activities outside of classroom. As a result, I find myself approaching problems with a broader perspective than before.

In addition, the cases we study at Cambridge Judge often include examples from European companies, which is a refreshing change from my undergraduate experience in the USA, where 90% of the case studies focused on American businesses. This diverse representation has given me a deeper understanding of European markets, consumer behaviors, and regulatory environments, which are critical for my aspirations to work in the region post-graduation.

What has been the toughest transition to living in the United Kingdom so far? What have you done to overcome this difficulty? The toughest transition has been adjusting to the slightly slower pace of life in a city like Cambridge compared to the fast-paced, urban environments I was used to in New York City, San Francisco, and other major cities where I have lived. Initially, it felt isolating, especially as I adjusted to life away from my family and friends.

To overcome this, I immersed myself in the Cambridge community by actively participating in social events, clubs, and extracurricular activities. This University term, for example, I have had the opportunity to attend several Formal Dinners at different Cambridge colleges, where I’ve sat at long tables, engaging in intellectual conversations with friends and students from across the university, each studying diverse disciplines. Additionally, co-leading the Cambridge Judge Business School Fintech Club has allowed me to connect with like-minded peers and foster a strong sense of belonging. I have also embraced new activities like rowing and tennis, which have not only been enjoyable but have also helped me build meaningful friendships. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the unique and vibrant environment that Cambridge offers.

What school service has been the most helpful in transitioning to living in the United Kingdom? How has it helped you adapt? The two-week Orientation before the Cambridge MBA programme officially started was invaluable in helping me transition to life in the UK. One session, in particular, focused on navigating daily life in the UK, from understanding public transportation to practical tips on opening a bank account and registering with a GP. This session alleviated much of the anxiety that comes with moving to a new country.

The MBA Orientation also fostered a sense of community early on. By the time classes started, I already felt connected to my peers, many of whom I now count as close friends. These connections made the transition smoother, as we supported each other through the challenges of adapting to a new environment.

What has been the most interesting cultural nuance of people living in the United Kingdom? Why has this struck you? One cultural nuance that stands out is the British preference for understatement and indirect communication. For example, feedback is often delivered in a way that is polite and reserved, even if the underlying message is critical. This was initially surprising because I was accustomed to more direct communication styles in the US and other professional environments where I have worked. I have learned to read between the lines and adapt my communication style to a different cultural context.

Are you seeking a Visa to work in the United Kingdom after graduation? If so, what obstacles have you faced and how did you overcome them? Yes, I plan to seek a visa to work in the UK after my post-study work visa (Graduate Route) expires. One of the main obstacles is finding a full-time role with a company willing to sponsor a skilled worker visa.

To overcome this, I have focused on building a strong professional network in the UK, leveraging both the Cambridge alumni network and my existing connections from previous roles. Additionally, I have tailored my applications to highlight my unique skills and international experience, making myself a competitive candidate for roles where companies value global perspectives and diverse experiences.

What have you done to make it easier to make friends with people from outside your home country at business school? Making friends at business school has come naturally, especially within my MBA Stream and smaller study groups. I started by interacting with classmates I worked closely with on projects or saw regularly in classes. From there, I made an effort to extend invitations to casual activities like coffee chats, group dinners, or even weekend trips around the UK. These informal gatherings have been a great way to build connections.

Reciprocating invitations has also been key. When classmates invite me to their events or cultural celebrations, I make it a priority to join, which has allowed me to experience and appreciate different cultures firsthand. These exchanges have not only deepened my friendships but have also made the diverse multicultural environment at Cambridge one of the most enriching aspects of my MBA experience.

What piece of advice would you give to an international student looking to study in a UK graduate business program? My advice is to step out of your comfort zone, both academically and socially. UK graduate programs are often shorter and more intense, so making the most of every opportunity is essential. Engage actively with classmates, faculty, and alumni, as these connections will form the backbone of your experience and future career network.

Most importantly, embrace the new experience with an open mind and heart. Whether it’s attending formal dinners at historic colleges, joining student clubs, or trying new activities like rowing or cricket, these experiences will help you forge lasting friendships and deepen your understanding of different cultures.

Moving to a new country can be daunting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The UK offers a rich history, a multicultural society, and an environment that encourages growth and exploration. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you will not only grow academically and professionally but also personally, gaining memories and skills that will stay with you for a lifetime.

DON’T MISS: 2025 MBAS ABROAD: UNITED KINGDOM