Amna T Adam, Ph.D., CEIBS MBA Class of 2028
Age: 34
Hometown: California, USA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Montclair State University, Chemistry and Molecular biology
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Senior Scientist Consultant, Biotech, 2 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My interest in pursuing an MBA began during graduate school, when I developed a synthetic method for producing a chemical with commercial potential. Although I understood the science, I lacked the business knowledge to assess its market value or contribute confidently to the commercialization negotiations. The chemical was eventually sold through Sigma-Aldrich for several years, and I watched its price increase before it was ultimately discontinued—with little understanding of the business decisions behind its commercial journey. That experience stayed with me. I decided to pursue an MBA so that, in the future, I can participate fully in both the scientific and commercial sides of innovation—advocating for my inventions, negotiating their value, and helping shape their path to market. Product page: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/aldrich/911933
Why did you choose CEIBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
My decision to choose CEIBS is a story of both serendipity and exceptional engagement from the school. About a year ago, family circumstances and professional opportunities brought us to Shanghai. I initially planned to return directly to the pharmaceutical industry, but it soon became clear that my limited Mandarin proficiency would be a significant disadvantage. After some reflection, I recognized that living in Shanghai presented a rare opportunity to revisit my long-standing interest in pursuing an MBA while studying Mandarin alongside it.
I explored several business schools and discovered CEIBS partly through my husband, an alumnus of Shanghai Jiao Tong University. From my first inquiry, the CEIBS admissions team stood out for its responsiveness, helpfulness, and genuine enthusiasm for the school. During a virtual information session, I learned that the head of marketing and admissions was not only a CEIBS alumna but had also moved from California and studied business Mandarin while completing her MBA. Her experience resonated deeply with my own aspirations.
My connection to CEIBS grew even stronger after visiting the campus. In fact, I enjoyed the community so much that I attended several in-person events simply because I wanted to return. CEIBS offered the combination I valued most: a globally respected MBA, deep access to China’s business environment, an international community, and a team that made me feel genuinely welcomed from the beginning.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
My most differentiating contribution is the breadth of perspective I bring to the classroom. I am a Sudanese-American scientist living in China, with experience spanning academic research, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical drug discovery. Having worked across scientific disciplines and organizational settings—from doctoral research and postdoctoral training at Stanford to leading cross-functional industry programs—I can contribute a rigorous, evidence-based approach to business discussions, particularly those involving healthcare, innovation, and emerging technologies.
Equally important, my experiences as a refugee, scientist, working mother, and international professional have taught me to approach challenges with resilience, empathy, and curiosity. I understand what it means to adapt to unfamiliar environments, rebuild after setbacks, and collaborate across cultures. I hope to contribute not only my technical and professional expertise, but also a willingness to listen, challenge assumptions thoughtfully, and help create a class community in which people with very different backgrounds can learn from one another.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I love sports almost as much as I love studying! I believe in the philosophy of “a sound mind in a sound body” and see physical and intellectual well-being as mutually reinforcing. Whenever time permits, I enjoy running and playing basketball, soccer, and tennis. Most recently, my CEIBS classmates introduced me to table tennis—although I am still working on becoming a worthy opponent!
Post-MBA career interests: After completing my MBA, I hope to return to the corporate world in a role that bridges science and business, potentially in strategy, business development, or innovation within the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry. At the same time, I am keeping an open mind and using my CEIBS experience to explore new industries, functions, and opportunities that may broaden my career path.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
In short, I would do everything again—especially visiting the campus. Immersing myself in the CEIBS environment and interacting with its community were essential to determining whether it was the right place for my MBA journey. The experience transformed the school from an option on paper into a community I could genuinely envision joining.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would not change anything. Although researching other schools was time-consuming, the process gave me valuable perspective and helped me fully appreciate everything CEIBS has to offer. Ultimately, it made me even more confident that CEIBS was the right choice for me.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could skip anything, it might be the intensity of Terms 1 and 2—I have heard they can be demanding! Still, knowing that total transformation awaits me on the other side makes the challenge feel worthwhile and the journey even more exciting.
What is your initial impression of the CEIBS students/culture/community?
The CEIBS community is diverse, engaged, and ambitious. My classmates bring a wide range of professional and cultural perspectives, yet they share a strong commitment to learning from and supporting one another.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I have joined the CEIBS Healthcare Industry Club, where I believe my scientific and pharmaceutical experience will allow me to contribute meaningfully. I am also eager to learn more about China’s healthcare ecosystem from classmates, industry leaders, and alumni.
What is one thing you have learned about CEIBS that has surprised you?
I have been pleasantly surprised by how dedicated CEIBS alumni are to supporting the next generation of students. Through the mentor–mentee program in the Leadership Journey, alumni generously share their time, experience, and guidance with current students. This spirit of giving back fuels my desire to inspire the next generation of CEIBS-ners.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about learning alongside my classmates. With international students representing 43% of our cohort—the most internationally diverse class in CEIBS history—we bring an extraordinary range of cultures, industries, and life experiences. I am curious to see how these different perspectives will shape our discussions and learning throughout the year.
