Yi-Ju Huang

Our students are the core of the MaastrichtMBA programme. Students with a broad diversity on nationality, age and even professional background. The insights and thoughts of our MBA students describe the true experience of MaastrichtMBA. This time we talked with our Taiwanese student Yi-Ju Huang. She works as Director Global Commercial Programs at BioNTech SE. BioNTech SE is a global biotechnology company aspiring to translate science into survival by developing new immunotherapies utilising the full potential of the immune system to fight cancer and infectious diseases. Yi-Ju joined our On-Campus MBA track in November 2024.

Fast Facts

Why did you decide to pursue an MBA?

I come from a biology background and never formally studied business, but in my first industry role I picked up business and management skills on the job. Over time, I realised my knowledge was fragmented and lacked a cohesive framework. Then, after facing a few personal challenges, I felt a desire to learn something new and connect with professionals across industries. Having spoken with friends who’ve completed an Executive MBA, I’m now convinced that pursuing one myself is the right next step.

Why did you choose for MaastrichtMBA?

I’ve spent the past 15 years studying and working in Germany and was craving a fresh European experience. When a friend told me his great experience at MaastrichtMBA, I signed up for Class Experience on-site. The in-person interaction, group work and networking have inspired me so much, I like the welcoming environment, all the programme staff members are friendly and helpful. I have evaluated few other business schools but that visit showed me this programme has the great in person energy I was looking for.

What made you choose your specific MaastrichtMBA track?

There are few reasons I choose On-Campus MBA track:

  • Face-to-face learning: After years of remote work, I missed the energy of in-person classes and networking.
  • On-Campus MBA track design: One focused week on campus each quarter fits my schedule better. My personal preference is to concentrate my attention and energy for a week on campus instead of scattering over several weekend sessions.
  • Networking opportunities: My priority of MBA is to network with people from different industries and build genuine connections. Remote work showed me how challenging personal connections can be, so I appreciate the informal chats during breaks and social events in the On-Campus MBA weeks.

Which skills do you want to refine during the programme?

Technically, I would like to refine my knowledge in economics and finance. As I have never learned those topics, I am very eager to learn and integrate the knowledge to my work.

 

In personal level, I would like to refine my personal development in leadership. This is not only about leading others but also the lead myself from within. After being in few leadership modules, I have experienced my personal growth in self-awareness and alignment. I am definitely curious about what to come in this journey.

How do you think you will benefit from doing this MBA?

Beyond new skills, the people I met are my biggest gain. Hearing different views, sharing tips, and leaning on classmates and getting support from them make my life richer and sets me up with a network I can count on.

 

I also benefit from the Leadership Development Trajectory (LDT) for my personal development and helps me navigate my career path more confidently.

What is the most enjoyable part of the MaastrichtMBA programme so far?

The safe, supportive atmosphere that co-created by staffs and students is truly remarkable—it gives you the confidence to experiment and push your boundaries. I love interacting with everyone, both in and out of class, especially during social events. Engaging with professionals in this Executive MBA setting enables us to share ideas on so many levels – every interaction feels like an opportunity to learn!

What advice do you have for anyone considering an executive MBA at MaastrichtMBA?

In our professional life, we often focus on hard skills to advance our career – but what if what we need is the soft skills that we never take time to develop? With years of experience behind you, an Executive MBA is not just a degree: it’s a journey of both personal and professional growth. If you consider to do an Executive MBA, be ready to challenge yourself in ways you don’t expect. Learning beside job is challenging, making time for study is not easy, but the payoff—fresh ideas, stronger confidence, and lifelong connections—is absolutely worth it.

Yi-Ju Huang
BioNTech SE
Director Global Commercial Programs