[photopress:mba_program_staff.JPG,full,alignright]With Western economies sagging, many European business schools say they are seeing a jump in the number of M.B.A.s and other students looking East for opportunities.
Fast-growing Asian economies have long attracted European and North American entrepreneurs.
Many B-school administrators and students say more students than ever are looking this year to job markets in places like China, as the hiring picture has turned gloomy in more traditional M.B.A. destinations like London and New York.
Those contemplating the move include students from Western backgrounds and those of Asian origin.
The number of Asian students studying at European B-schools has risen significantly over the past several years. But until recently, many used their degrees to secure jobs in the West.
This year, those at the schools say more Asian students are seeking to take their diplomas back home.
Lewis Hong, a student at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School said, ‘The job markets are tighter here [in Britain] and there are less opportunities. M.B.A.s are by nature opportunistic. We want to go out there and be a part of this Asian growth right away.’
While Asia may be hurt by the global credit crunch, growth there remains strong and the region is likely to slow less than Europe and the U.S. Many students also realize that Asian experience, whether with a regional company or a Western one, will likely serve them well later, appealing to employers in the West who need workers familiar with a critical region.
Source: Wall Street Journal
