When you spent the last 35 years of your life basked in a sunny weather (where I came from, we have two weathers - sun and haze), winter is an experience you will never forget to share with your future grandchildren. What a timing for an MBA program. When most business schools start their MBA program around September/October, EMST chose January. Wise decision?At the recent ESMT MBA Class 2010 Welcome Dinner, Dean Wulff Plinke quoted the now-famous 1914 advertisement “Men Wanted for Hazardous Journey” by Sir Ernest Shackleton for his trans-Antarctic expedition (aka Endurance Expedition). The advertisement read:
“Men Wanted: For Hazardous Journey.
Small wages. Bitter cold.
Long months of complete darkness.
Constant danger. Safe return doubtful.
Honor and recognition in case of success.”
For ESMT Class 2010, this quote was timely and is a reminder to the 40 men and women who have chosen to sacrifice fledging career to take one year break and join ESMT’s Endurance Expedition at the start of a bitter cold Berlin. I was told that this year’s winter was unusual. More snow than Berlin ever experienced. The 40 of us made the decision for this “hazardous journey” and we cannot turn back. No way. The only way is forward and forward we must.
After the first month, signs of Sir Shackleton’s advertisement began to materialise. Deja vu. We told you so. For some of us, we are still in our study room with less than 4-5 hours of sleep. I am sure my other expedition mates in their respective cabin-apartment are no less lucky.
I am Jimmy Low from Malaysia. I chose to join this Endurance Expedition after working for 13 years in telecommunications industry. I reached the first phase of my career, feeling a sense of achievement. The goals I set in 1998 was met. I am more than happy. After spending two years planning and soul-searching, I made a decision to do my MBA at ESMT in Berlin, Germany. Many people questioned my wisdom in choosing Germany for MBA. Well, my friends, this is my “Antarctic”. And, I am not alone. There are other 39 others who chose Germany as their “Antarctic”.
Success awaits all of us at the next winter. I am sure we will persevere. This is a journey not for individuals. This is a journey for teams. There is no hero in this expedition as for us to survive this journey we need to support each other psychologically and in any way we can. I hope my fellow expedition mates who share the same mission with me also share the same philosophy - we start as a team, we end as a team.
Join me, as I journal our expedition across the “bitter cold, long months of darkness, constant challenges and no turning back” landscape. Pray for our safe turn on 17 December 2010.
God Bless, Class 2010.
P/S: For the real Endurance Expedition, click.
Student Reviews
Well qualified professors and great connectons with the industry
Well structured programs, great facilities and very good career development team. The alumni relations with the school are great and well maintained and fostered. Overall a great school right in the middle of Berlin.
Memorable college life
The European School of Management and Technology creates a remarkable setting where students can excel. I admire this school for its dynamic community, which is filled with enthusiasm, pride, and countless opportunities. The campus, with its rich history and traditions, is truly beautiful, and the spirited atmosphere is invigorating. The social life and events on campus are fantastic, allowing for friendship and connections among students. Although the academics can be tough, they are incredibly beneficial and worthwhile. The encouraging faculty and involved student body foster meaningful connections and lasting friendships.
Enjoy every moment
The European School of Management and Technology has completely exceeded my expectations. I was blown away by the quality of education here and how much I have learned in such a short amount of time. Every class is made incredibly exciting by the passionate and knowledgeable professors who go above and beyond to ensure that we are fully engaged and learning. I never thought I would enjoy studying so much, but thanks to this school, I am constantly motivated and eager to learn more. The hands-on approach to learning and the challenging yet supportive environment have truly made my educational experience here far better than I could have ever imagined.
Bringing excitement to the class
Studying at the European School of Management and Technology has exceeded all my expectations. I thought I was just signing up for a solid business education, but what I got was so much more. Every class is dynamic, with professors who are not just academics but actual leaders in their fields, bringing real-world case studies and fresh insights into every discussion. They make even complex topics exciting and easy to understand by linking theory to what’s happening right now in the global business world. The interactive approach, combined with a diverse group of classmates, makes every class feel like a new challenge and opportunity. I never imagined learning could be this engaging and inspiring.
Impressed by quality
ESMT Berlin has been a revelation! I was drawn to its top-tier rankings and location in Germany's vibrant capital, but the experience has shattered my expectations. The education here is exceptionally practical, with professors who are renowned experts and industry veterans. Each class is a high-energy, interactive session that tackles real-world challenges, from strategic innovation to digital transformation. I'm constantly impressed by the diversity of perspectives and expertise among my classmates, who hail from over 50 countries. ESMT's focus on leadership development, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility resonates deeply with me.
Better education
I cannot believe how amazing my experience at the European School of Management and Technology is! I was initially hesitant about going to a business school, but ESMT has exceeded all my expectations. The professors here are not just knowledgeable, but they are passionate about their subjects and make every class exciting and engaging. The education I am receiving here is far better than what I thought it would be, and I am constantly challenged and motivated to learn more. I am so grateful to be a part of such a prestigious and dynamic institution. ESMT truly lives up to its reputation as one of the top business schools in Europe.
Exceptional experience with supportive professors
My time here's has been truly exceptional. The professors are supportive and welcoming, creating an ideal learning environment. Various campus activities cater to diverse interests, and hands-on experiences prepare students for their future careers. One area for improvement is the dining options, but overall, I've thoroughly enjoyed my experience.
