Avid American traveler hopes an international MBA will make him stand out from the crowd
The career of political science graduate Corey Ladick at Wisconsin’s Marshall & IIsley bank was on the right track, but he knew he would need a business-related education to move up in a corporate world.So he started a part-time MBA class at a local college, trying to pick up business knowledge in evenings and at weekends. However, after doing it for a while it became obvious that the slow pace wasn’t ideal.
“I realized how long it would take me to complete it on a part-time basis,” said the University of Wisconsin La Crosse grad, so I decided to do it full-time.”
28-year-old Ladick, a Wisconsin native, has always enjoyed traveling abroad. He’s been to 27 countries, including a 12-month stint in South Korea’s Kyung-Hwa Girls High School as an English teacher during 2004 and 2005.
Based on a positive experience in Asia, he sees advantages in doing an MBA far, far away from home: “I asked myself: ‘how can I stand out from every other job applicant after I graduate?’ Studying abroad is a logical strategy for achieving some kind of differentiation,” he says.
The 28-year-old wanted to go to a developed Asian economy with a good reputation for education, so Singapore was a natural choice, along with Japan and Hong Kong. He started by researching schools on the internet.
Though he was accepted by National University of Singapore, National Chengchi University in Taiwan and Thunderbird School of Global management in the US, it was during the admission interviews when Nanyang Business School in Singapore stood out.
Ladick recalls: “My choice… was heavily influenced by the telephone interview during the application process. I felt that the attitude of the school was a good fit for me.”
Before he flew cross the Pacific Ocean, he read a book about Singapore and arrived prepared. He says living in Singapore can be “intimidating” because of the country’s reputation as a police state, but he says this is “much overhyped”.
In a country with four official languages, international exposure is an important part of the MBA experience offered by Nanyang Business School. The school’s full-time MBA class consists of 80 per cent international students, according to Ladick.
He says: “It’s one thing to meet people from different cultures, but it’s quite another [thing] to actually work, argue and compromise with them.
“Sometimes we sit down and no one sees eye-to-eye, and then we realize that it’s because things work so differently in different parts of the world!”
His study group is made up of six different nationalities.
Ladick, who scored 680 in his GMAT, is specializing in finance during his MBA. The core subjects on his course schedule include financial management, corporate finance, international wealth management and multinational financial management.
This is because he’s already had experiences in retail banking so more advanced financial knowledge seems like a “natural fit”, he says.
But he knows the current climate isn’t the best time for opportunities in the financial sector: “The most important thing for me [after finishing my MBA] is to find a company with multiple locations worldwide that would give me the opportunity to travel and live in different places,” he says.
“I am especially interested in management associate programs or graduates training programs,” Ladick adds.
But before committing to long-term work, Ladick is keen to see more of Southeast Asia with Taiwan, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bhutan on his list.
“I think international exposure is very useful for MBAs,” he says. “The value to someone involved in international business or working in a cross-cultural environment is obvious.
“Also, having international experience says a lot about someone in regard to flexibility, adaptability, ambition and the ability to work with people different from yourself or holding different perspectives.”
Read more Why MBA stories
Student Reviews
Good campus life and extra-curricular activities
This is a great place to learn and interact with more like-minded people. The campus is something that stands out to me. The infrastructure is great and the university is very well-built. There is lots to do on the high campus, from a large number of eating joints to the numerous clubs and sports activities. I also quite like Singapore as a country, as there is so much to do around not very far from campus. The educational facilities are extremely good, there are lots of opportunities to take on research projects and do industrial projects, which I really enjoy. The only thing I dislike about NTU is that the number of international students is really low and I would like to see a larger international intake in the future. Definitely recommend for the amazing educational facilities and on-campus social life.
An international campus that provided diverse choices for students
It's a beautiful campus with a high degree of internationality, providing diverse choices for students in terms of research opportunities and career consultation. Also, scholars are knowledgable and very inspiring, and are good at motivating the thinking of students.
Great University
In overall, the university has met my expectations with its wonderful lectures and research staff. However, there are some issues with the administrative side, i.e. administration may give you different answers on the same question. Also, the university’s website often provides outdated information and it takes time to get what you need; perhaps there is not enough people for managing it.
Good resources
I would recommend. Good resources for research. Knowledgeable professors and instructors. Conducive environment for studying and doing assignments. Helpful staff and faculty. Food options are good. An overall good place to study.
inefficient communication and lack of transparency
The administrative team at the university is slow to respond and is often inadequate in their responses and solutions. The uni is also unclear and resistant to explain their actions and motivations when carrying out policies or when questioned
Formative experience for success
NTU prioritizes giving students ample time for independent research. The academic schedule consists of 6–7 weeks of study, followed by a week without classes, allowing students to catch up on any material they may have missed. This is succeeded by another 6–7 weeks of study, culminating in a week dedicated to final exam preparation and exams.
The curriculum is designed to be student-friendly, minimizing burdens such as excessive assignments, projects, exams, quizzes, and attendance requirements. This approach affords students the freedom to pursue personal interests and self-development. In my experience, each of the four courses I took had a comparable workload, typically comprising 2 assignments, 3 easy labs, 2–3 quizzes (some without), and 1 final exam.
In contrast, comparable courses at other universities often entail significantly heavier workloads, including 3 homework assignments, 5 projects, 5–6 pop-up quizzes, mandatory attendance, 2 midterms, and 1 final exam. Moreover, each project typically demands 3–4 days of work.
It is hard work, but it pays off.
Academic atmosphere
Nanyang Technological University offers a vibrant academic atmosphere that fosters innovation and excellence. The strong emphasis on research and practical learning equips students with real-world skills. Positives include access to state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative projects, and a diverse student body. However, the competitive environment can be intense, leading to high stress levels. NTU's academic atmosphere encourages growth but requires resilience to thrive.
Diverse professors
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I have been extremely impressed with the quality of education I have received. The professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate about their subjects, which makes learning engaging and enjoyable.
The teaching styles vary from lecture-based to interactive discussions and group projects, providing a well-rounded learning experience. The use of technology in the classrooms also enhances our understanding of the course material. One of the things I love about NTU is the diversity on campus. Not only are there students from all over the world, but the professors also come from various backgrounds, making the learning environment truly global. English is the main language spoken on campus, which makes it easy for international students to feel at home. In terms of examinations and coursework, the workload can be challenging at times, but the support from professors and classmates makes it manageable. The exams are fair and assess our understanding of the material effectively.
Video lectures
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I am extremely impressed with the transportation options available on campus. The buses and shuttles make it easy to get around the huge campus. The beautifully landscaped garden campus adds a peaceful and scenic vibe to studying. The facilities, from the state-of-the-art labs to the comfortable study spaces, are top-notch. The video lectures are a convenient and effective way to supplement classroom learning.
Focus on science
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) excels in its focus on engineering and science degrees. The curriculum is robust, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Professors are industry experts, providing invaluable insights. State-of-the-art facilities enhance learning experiences. Opportunities for research and internships abound, fostering innovation and professional growth. NTU's emphasis on cutting-edge technology prepares students for real-world challenges. NTU's commitment to engineering and science education is unparalleled, shaping tomorrow's leaders in these fields.
great canteens
While at Nanyang Technological University, I can confidently say that the quality of education here is excellent. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and the curriculum is challenging yet rewarding. The campus itself is green and natural, providing a peaceful and inspiring environment for learning. The canteens offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable food options, catering to different dietary preferences. From local delights to international cuisines, there is something for everyone. The student housing facilities are also well-maintained and comfortable, providing a home away from home for students. NTU's reputation as a top-ranked university is well-deserved, with cutting-edge research and a strong emphasis on innovation.
high quality education
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a top-notch educational institution that offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students. The campus is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and the faculty members are highly experienced and knowledgeable in their fields. As a student at NTU, I have had a positive experience so far. The university provides a conducive learning environment and encourages students to think critically and creatively. The campus is vibrant and diverse, with a strong sense of community among students and staff. I would definitely recommend NTU to prospective students looking for a high-quality education in a supportive and stimulating environment. The opportunities for research, internships, and extracurricular activities are plentiful, and the university is committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for future success.
Student experience
As a student at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the experience is vibrant and enriching. Surrounded by lush greenery, the campus offers a serene environment for studying and relaxation. While parties and nightlife options are available, the focus leans more towards academic pursuits. The campus buzzes with activities, clubs, and events, catering to diverse interests. However, the tuition cost is competitive, offering value for the exceptional education and resources provided. I recommend my university
High quality of life
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I'm thoroughly impressed with the quality of education. The faculty is highly knowledgeable and supportive, fostering an engaging learning environment. Tuition fees are reasonable for the value provided. The campus food options are diverse and delicious, catering to various dietary preferences. The transport system is efficient, with easy access to public transportation. NTU offers a high quality of life, combining academic excellence with a vibrant campus culture.
good value for money
At Nanyang Technological University, I find the tuition fees reasonable considering the quality of education and resources provided. The university offers diverse programs, experienced faculty, modern facilities, and opportunities for research and internships. While tuition costs are substantial, the value for money is evident in the comprehensive learning experience and the potential for career advancement. NTU delivers on its promise of excellence, making it a worthwhile investment in one's future.
