Siling Tan: From product marketing to tech startup

What stood out about the academic learning experience for you?

The hands-on learning approach at Cambridge Judge Business School (CJBS) with live clients was the highlight of my academic experience. Almost every term, students form groups and are assigned to consult various companies to solve a real problem. I had the privilege of working with an early-stage biotech startup in Cambridge, Carnegie Hall in New York, and CNBC Catalyst in London. I also received invaluable mentorship from project mentors assigned by CJBS to guide and assess our work. Although exams and essays are a significant part of the MBA, the live client projects gave me the opportunity to gain experience in new industries and locations, and form new connections I otherwise would not have had. 

What were the standout elements of the Cambridge experience or extra-curricular activities you had during your MBA.

During and post-MBA, I had the opportunity to co-author, teach, and publish a business case study with CJBS Professor, Jaideep Prabhu. Writing the case study was a great way to reflect on experiences in my previous company, and returning to CJBS as a guest lecturer to teach the case was a very rewarding experience. The case study opened new doors to scholarships and awards, and allowed me to connect with new MBA cohorts beyond my current class. 

How would you describe the cohort of people in your class?

My classmates are bold business leaders from all over the world. Previously, I didn’t know of many friends or colleagues who made bold lateral moves or career switches. After all, there is comfort in staying in a familiar lane and sticking to a niche. Since graduating, I’ve seen my MBA friends pursue unexpected roles, challenge assumptions, and chase dreams. This has also emboldened me to take a wider, longer term view of my own journey. 

What value did they bring to your MBA?

There is an openness and transparency between MBA classmates to discuss sensitive work topics that I find difficult to talk about with others. This includes interviewing skills, people management, conflict resolution, and promotions and salary. 

What aspect of the MBA learning and experience would you say you find most useful now in your professional life?

The MBA has taught me about different types of business success and failures, and helped me explore different paths that led to those outcomes. I’ve become more well-versed in identifying patterns and playbooks undertaken by companies, and continue to build upon this foundation with new examples observed in the world today. 

Did you switch any of the following after your MBA, and if so, what factors enabled you to do that?

Since graduating, I’ve co-founded a tech startup in Cambridge in a new industry. Many of the practical business skills I learnt in the classroom have helped me navigate this process. In addition, the CJBS and Cambridge network introduced me to my co-founder, and continues to connect me with other alumni entrepreneurs within and outside of the city. I also received support from CJBS for my UK work visa. 

How has the MBA influenced your career journey in general?

The MBA is a strategic one-year pit stop to reflect on where you’ve been in your career and where you’re going. You might come to the MBA with a very targeted goal but chances are, you’ll learn new things, meet new people, and might change your mind. I never considered co-founding a startup but eventually I did. The career path that many of my classmates and I have taken after the MBA has been different but are much better than the ones we thought we would have. 

What would you say to others working at the same company you did before your MBA – would you recommend the Cambridge MBA to them, and if so, why?

The Cambridge education may have embellished my resume, but the Cambridge experience has changed how I work and my trajectory. If you’re considering an MBA, I recommend experiencing it for yourself.