Behind the Scenes: Discovering the CBS MBA
Are you considering completing an MBA program in Europe? The Copenhagen Business School (CBS) MBA might be the right option for you. Discover the CBS MBA through the eyes of Anton Karnick, a current CBS MBA student from Germany. Anton shares why the Copenhagen Business School sustainability focus stood out to him. He further explains how the program aligned with his long-term career aspirations and he shares the unexpected benefits of studying in Copenhagen.
Why Copenhagen Business School? Anton’s Choice
Anton humorously recalls joking with his parents about studying his master’s in Copenhagen at 14. Naturally, the final choice came later in his life. He felt that he was at a crossroads, reflecting on his career goals. He was sure that he wanted to make a career pivot from petrochemical trading towards something more sustainable.
Think Big, Think Green: Copenhagen Business School Sustainability
At Copenhagen Business School sustainability is intertwined in its ethos. This was a crucial factor in Anton’s decision. He explains, “Copenhagen [Business School] was coming up with a strong emphasis on sustainability. And then I fell in love with the MBA.” (01:02)
Anton highlights that every course in the program takes sustainability into account. Sustainability and ESG are a focus throughout the entire MBA, not just in one course. In Term 1, students cover the course “Managing Sustainable Corporations”. There is also a Concentration titled “Governance and Sustainability” in Term 4 for those who want to deep-dive into the topic.
“In every different subject you have, you integrate the ESG topics and you speak about sustainability… it’s really at the core of the program.” (06:52)
At Copenhagen Business School sustainability isn’t only found in the classroom. Sustainability is integrated into the campus culture. From having paper bags at the cafeteria to seeing students biking to and from classes, it is a part of campus life. He elaborates, “You see that on the whole campus, diversity and sustainability are major topics… it’s everywhere around you.” (07:10)
Additionally, Copenhagen is a renowned green city that places great focus on sustainability. Denmark is a pioneer and leader in sustainability. With a rich history in fishing and agriculture, a deep respect for nature is deeply tied into Danish culture.
The combination of CBS’s values, the city of Copenhagen, and the MBA curriculum made it the perfect choice for Anton.
Highlights of the CBS MBA
Beyond the Copenhagen Business School sustainability element, Anton felt that several other factors influenced his positive experience during the CBS MBA.
Leadership & Learning
Firstly, he highly values people-focused interactions and hopes to become a leader and manager one day. The focus on both global and Danish leadership styles throughout the MBA was appealing to him.
He highlights, “There’s one specific class that aligns leadership discovery skills with your whole MBA journey. That was always very appealing to me because I love being around people, and I would like to be a manager one day.” (01:20)
Small Class Size for Maximum Impact
Secondly, another highlight of the program was its small class size. Small classes offer a supportive learning space. Students network and make life-long connections with peers. They also have access to personalized support from their professors.
Anton expresses his joy over the tight-knit and supportive atmosphere in the CBS MBA classroom. He was able to build deep friendships and find support and community among peers.
Community Over Competition
In the CBS MBA, the focus is on support and community rather than competition. He adds, “I was looking for friends, self-development, and happiness, to be honest. This class is just amazing, it has so many different people, it’s so small, and it’s so uncompetitive when it comes to supporting each other.” (03:33)
He notes many benefits and highlights he’s enjoyed with his cohort, whom he affectionately calls a ‘family’. He enjoys studying together, meeting for coffees outside of class, and supporting each other during exams.
A Future-Proof Education
Finally, CBS combines traditional knowledge with future-proof learning. The CBS MBA combines foundational skills and knowledge with digitalization, sustainability, and a forward-thinking approach.
He reiterates, “All of these subjects together with the small class size and the city, it was the perfect fit for my MBA journey.” (02:01)
Unexpected Learnings and Personal Growth
Anton further highlights that the CBS MBA provides learning opportunities both in and outside of the classroom. While he learned a lot in class, he was pleasantly surprised by how much he learned outside of the classroom as well.
He expresses that the diverse cohort offered a rich foundation for peer learning. Learning from peers of different professional backgrounds and nationalities opened up new ways of thinking.
Additionally, the supportive learning environment fostered greater self-reflection and self-growth. He shares, “This MBA has really boosted my [sense of] self in a very supportive and awesome environment.” (03:01)
On Being A Class Representative
Furthermore, Anton is the Class Representative of the Full-time MBA 2024-2025 cohort. This offered him another opportunity outside of the classroom to develop himself and improve his leadership skills.
He is learning a lot from this role. He reflects, “Go the extra step. Try to understand the person, don’t just assume [things]. Also don’t assume everyone thinks the way you think.” (06:09)
He has learned a lot about communication, leadership, and overcoming cultural differences. Representing the needs of a diverse cohort has taught him valuable lessons about managing an international team. This is a key skill to develop in today’s globalized world.
Ultimately, these experiences help him gain a deeper understanding of himself, both on a personal and professional level.
Copenhagen: MBA Students Embrace “Hygge” Life
Anton highly recommends Denmark, and especially Copenhagen, to MBA students. He underscores the advantages and ease of its digital infrastructure. He says it’s “breathtakingly digital.” (07:36)
He also notes the friendliness of Danish people and the open-minded attitude towards international students. In Denmark, people embrace a “hygge” lifestyle. This lifestyle encourages relaxation, togetherness, and savoring the small joys in life. After all, Denmark is ranked the second happiest country in the world in 2025.
Another highlight is that most Danish people speak English. This makes it easy for international students to get around and settle in. In addition to that, Copenhagen offers a sustainable, green, and healthy environment living environment.
Copenhagen is a beautiful city with a rich history, impressive architecture, numerous parks, and a vibrant young population.
Advice for Future MBA Students
Anton finishes his interview by sharing final advice for prospective MBA students. He advises students to embrace the entire learning experience. While studying is highly important, he also emphasizes making time for friends and other activities. Friends can be an important support system while living away from home.
He encourages future students to take their studies seriously while also enjoying this potentially transformative year. Don’t be afraid to explore the city, meet new people, and have fun. “Enjoy this year as much as possible,” he concludes. (08:32)
Ready to Pack Your Bags for Denmark?
Ultimately, the Full-time MBA at Copenhagen Business School stands out for a myriad of reasons. Its strong emphasis on sustainability and modern leadership is key to the program’s success. Its supportive atmosphere and small class size lay a foundation for a great learning experience.
Moreover, the vibrant city of Copenhagen and the learning opportunities both in and outside of the classroom offer an enriching journey. The CBS MBA program prioritizes sustainability and personal growth, fosters collaboration, and equips you with future-proof knowledge. If this is what you are looking for, this program may warrant your serious consideration.
Do you want to study for an MBA? Read more inspiring stories from MBA graduates and see if it is the right next step for you.
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