Redefining business education: An MBA focused on adaptability and resilience

The MBA at UBC Sauder School of Business, located in Vancouver, Canada, encourages students to innovate and develop unconventional solutions to the world’s biggest problems. 

Enabling the leaders of tomorrow’s workplaces 

The business world is a whirlwind of constant change and challenge. Today, employers seek graduates who are agile and have the drive to create meaningful change.  

UBC Sauder Dean, Darren Dahl explains that he has observed a shift in what students look for from an MBA – and what employers expect from an MBA graduate. 

“At UBC Sauder, we are focused on shaping future leaders who are not only profit-driven but who also value societal impact,” says Dahl. “We are addressing some of the hairiest challenges facing the world today where business can have a significant impact.  

“This begins with us attracting the right kind of students — those who are excited and motivated to challenge their boundaries and tackle complex challenges in new and unconventional ways.” 

Students want more than just academic excellence; they want to be part of a community that encourages innovation, ethical leadership, sustainability and social responsibility. 

Contributing to something bigger 

Kiki Wang, UBC Sauder MBA alumnus from the Class of 2009, explains how much this vision resonated with her personal and professional goals. 

“A sense of purpose is crucial — it’s what transforms work from being just a job to a meaningful pursuit. I spend so much of my day at work that it’s important for me to feel passionate about what I do and to believe that I’m contributing to something bigger. My MBA experience reinforced this mindset, and it continues to guide the work I do today.” 

Having completed her undergraduate studies in International Business Management at Shanghai International Studies University and a Master’s in Finance at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Kiki wanted to strengthen her expertise and sharpen her professional skills. 

UBC Sauder has a thriving international community 

“I wanted to build a strong foundation in corporate finance, as that was my primary focus at the time. Beyond technical expertise, I was also eager to gain international exposure and expand my horizons by learning alongside a diverse cohort, ” she said.  "While researching MBA programs, UBC Sauder stood out for its academic reputation as one of North America's top institutions. Additionally, Vancouver's reputation as a beautiful, multicultural and welcoming city — particularly for international students — made it an ideal choice for me.” 

UBC Sauder, an AACSB-accredited school, has been ranked the number one for business school programs in Canada by Macleans for the eighth year in a row. The school offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. 

Building a mindset for real-world impact 

Now Head of a Hong Kong based venture investment company, Kiki continues to draw on the hands-on learning and skills she learned during her program. 

“My MBA experience at UBC Sauder was instrumental in equipping me with the skills and confidence to transition into a new culture and business environment,” she said The program emphasized adaptability and resilience—qualities that have continued to serve me well. It also provided a solid foundation of knowledge and professional growth that has supported my career development ever since.” 

The UBC MBA is a 16-month, full time program for high-achieving professionals who want to expand their opportunities but need more skills and confidence to do so. 

For Kiki, the entrepreneurship and venture capital courses were very interesting and eye-opening. They introduced her to the world of startups and venture investments, which were areas she hadn’t explored before. 

“This exposure not only expanded my understanding of the field but also inspired me to pivot my career path from corporate finance to venture investment — a decision that has shaped my professional journey,” added Kiki.

Accessing tailored career advice and a global alumni community 

The Business Career Centre (BCC) at UBC Sauder helps to connect students and alumni with organisations and businesses across the globe. The range of services supports students and alumni to establish and achieve their career goals. 

“The Business Career Centre was an invaluable resource, especially as an international student navigating a new business culture in Canada,” said Kiki. "They provided tailored advice, training, and tools to help me learn about the communication protocol in Canada. In fact, I still use the resume template I received from the BCC to this day.” 

In addition to the BCC’s career resources, Kiki has built her network in both Vancouver and Hong Kong through UBC Sauder’s expansive and highly engaged global alumni community of over 50,000 alumni in 100 countries.  

UBC Sauder has an extensive and highly engaged global alumni community

“I’ve connected with many other folks from UBC Sauder through the school’s programming in Hong Kong,” said Kiki. “It’s been incredible to be a part of this bigger business community and to connect and learn from so many different people from diverse backgrounds and industries.” 

Interested in learning out more about an MBA at UBC Sauder? Kiki shared her advice to prospective MBA candidates: “Approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn from everyone around you. Immerse yourself fully, work hard and make the most of every opportunity. It’s a chance to grow in ways you might not expect, both personally and professionally.” 

Studying at UBC Sauder helps students build the skills and experience they need to succeed in tomorrow’s workplaces. The school’s programs equip students with the mindset and experience they need to nurture their ambitions and have a meaningful impact on the world.