Wharton School Dean on Leadership, Diversity

The transcript discusses the impact of economic conditions on business school applications, highlighting increased demand during economic downturns. It explores international student demand, particularly from China, and Wharton's openness to these students. The admissions process at Wharton is detailed, emphasizing a quantitative focus. Student interest in sustainability and ESG is noted, with Wharton launching a new ESG major. The tech industry's temporary downturn is discussed, with optimism for its recovery. Lessons from the pandemic stress the importance of preparedness. Future trends in education, including virtual courses and interdisciplinary collaboration, are explored. Wharton's strategic positioning aims to maintain its leadership in business education.

How do business school applications typically respond to economic downturns?

• They are unaffected by economic conditions.

• They increase as people seek to upskill.

• They remain stable.

• They decrease significantly.

What percentage of Wharton's student population is made up of Chinese students?

• 10%

• 16%

• 30%

• 25%

What is a key focus of Wharton's admissions process?

• Quantitative skills

• Extracurricular activities

• Personal interviews

• Geographical diversity

What new major has Wharton introduced to address student interest in sustainability?

• Environmental Science

• Corporate Social Responsibility

• Green Technology

• ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance)

What is Wharton's perspective on the current downsizing in the tech industry?

• It will lead to fewer tech courses.

• It is a temporary phase.

• It is a permanent shift.

• It will not affect students' career prospects.

What lesson did Wharton learn from the pandemic regarding crisis preparedness?

• Pandemics have minimal impact on education.

• Crises are rare and unpredictable.

• Preparedness is crucial for future crises.

• Virtual learning is ineffective.

How is Wharton planning to adapt its curriculum to future changes?

• By focusing solely on business courses

• By increasing the number of exams

• By reducing the number of virtual courses

• By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration