students pose for a photo before their Executive Challenge

Executive Challenge

Executive Challenge is a one-of-a-kind learning experience in which first-year Stanford MBA students participate in experiential leadership challenges that are judged by accomplished alumni and faculty.

Executive Challenge 2023
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Executive Challenge 2023

Follow students and judges during the 2023 Executive Challenge to hear about their expectations, experiences, and takeaways.

Stanford MBA students take courses that teach them how to motivate others, build relationships, and influence outcomes — skills required in every leader today. Executive Challenge is the culminating event of the autumn quarter during which students put into practice what they’ve learned.

Each year, nearly 500 students and more than 250 alumni and faculty come together to participate in multiple simulated business challenges during the course of one day, testing their strategies and leadership skills. At the end of each simulation, Stanford GSB alumni analyze the decisions and behaviors students exhibited and provide thoughtful feedback and coaching to each student.

Executive Challenge is an opportunity for students to engage senior-level alumni and faculty in a very personal manner, which directly impacts student learning.

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