|
Peter Schmallegger - IEMBA Alumnus from Austria |
|
|
I was looking for an international program that offered a traditional MBA approach and an executive education at the same time. ISM’s IEMBA program was the only one-year, full-time program that actually could combine these two elements. For somebody like me, with 10 years of business experience and preparing to take on more responsibility, this is exactly what I was looking for. A pure MBA would have been too sunk in details while a pure executive education concentrates too much on economics and finance, which was not my chief concern. In addition, the mix of people at ISM is outstanding. How fantastic to have such a balance of Asians, North Americans, Latin Americans, Africans, Australians and Europeans in one program! It is the huge cultural diversity in the classroom that makes you better understand the challenges of the global business world. The solid working experience of the students energises learning and discussion enormously. Academic theory gets substantially challenged and the fine line between what does work in real business life and what doesn't becomes better visible. As an Austrian, I had to improve my English skills and learn the specific terminology and methodology that comes with an MBA program. For a European, the American style of teaching can be both refreshing and inspiring. The school is small, flexible and not at all bureaucratic. It’s pragmatic. You’re not paying for huge overhead costs. Furthermore, ISM is fast to extend the seminar Portfolio into leading-edge subjects and theories, while maintaining a high level in traditional MBA subjects. I consider ISM’s efforts to continuously strive for excellence in traditional MBA subjects as a key strength. Another advantage is that ISM offers Seminars in Paris, NY and Tokyo. Finally I have to mention that I like the online student interface, “Connect”, and its great organization. I hold a master in science, and before the IEMBA program I could speak the "language of technology". Now I’ve learned the "language of finance and business". ISM provided me all the corporate and international finance background I needed (except for principles of economics, which we had to bring on board by a student workshop initiative). ISM delivers an excellent education in terms of leadership and management, human resource and organisational behaviour, and Risk management as well. These subjects are specifically important to me, as I work for a Multinational Corporation, and business depends so much on leadership and organisational culture. ISM helped me to enhance my profile, so that I know I will be very well prepared to take the challenges ahead.
|
Students, Alumni and Faculty 
I chose ISM because of the competitive tuition, the e-learning program, the reputation of the school, exposure to...