When I joined the Cambridge MBA in September 2022, I was coming off a successful entrepreneurial journey in the robotics industry. I applied in the third round, unsure whether I would make it. But I was incredibly fortunate to not only be admitted, but also awarded the Technology and Innovation Scholarship. I had no idea at the time just how transformative the year ahead would be.
Our cohort of 200+ students came from all over the world, and in a short time we became friends, teammates, and even family. From late-night project discussions to punting on the River Cam, from formal dinners to startup hackathons, the Cambridge Judge experience was a whirlwind of learning, connection, and growth.
Our lovely cohort and my CVP group
Beyond the classroom, as President of Cambridge China Business Society (CCBS), I helped build bridges between Chinese students and the broader Cambridge business community. I also had the chance to co-host a GMAC webinar on entrepreneurship and the MBA experience with Susan from the admissions team — a great opportunity to reflect on how Cambridge empowers future founders.
Among all the life-changing experiences at Cambridge, the most unexpected was meeting the love of my life at Cambridge. We were MBA classmates – she was from Queens’ College and I was from Darwin. We got married shortly after returning to Shanghai, and our story was featured by Cambridge Judge Business School and warmly celebrated by Queens’ College, making Cambridge feel even more like home.
Blessings from Cambridge Judge and Queens’ College
But the story didn’t end there. Back in Shanghai, we connected with Albert Wu, a CJBS alumnus from 2001. Inspired by our shared vision, we co-founded a new venture dedicated to helping Chinese companies go global — working closely with Cambridge networks and institutions in the process.
From Cambridge to Shanghai, we are partners and co-founders.
In Shanghai, we also took part in many alumni events, including the Oxbridge May Ball and receptions with visiting Cambridge leaders such as Professor Mike Rands (Master of Darwin College) and Professor Alan Short (Master of Clare Hall). We’ve been proactive in supporting both Cambridge and CJBS alumni communities, and we’re currently in discussion with Floriana Guida about leading the Shanghai alumni group — hoping to create more opportunities for local connections and support among fellow graduates. These moments remind us that being part of Cambridge is a lifelong journey — one that extends far beyond the year in the UK.
Attending many alumni events in China
For me, the Cambridge MBA wasn’t just a degree — it was the beginning of a new life. It gave me a global network, a new perspective, a business, a mission, and a family. If you’re thinking about applying: do it. It might just change your life, too.
Tony Li
MBA Class of 2022 | Technology & Innovation Scholar | Co-Founder @ Ediferse