Global perspective fuels Thunderbird Outstanding Graduate's journey
Pearl Chang Esau. Photo courtesy of Thunderbird School of Global Management
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Pearl Chang Esau has always been a global citizen.
A daughter of immigrant parents from Taiwan, Pearl Chang Esau’s diverse upbringing and experiences working in Latin America have shaped her perspective on the world and motivated her to seek a career focused on global impact. Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University’s strong focus on cultural competence and global leadership aligned perfectly with her aspirations.
Chang Esau will graduate this fall with an Executive Master of Global Management (EMGM), and is Thunderbird’s Fall 2024 Outstanding Graduate, chosen for her exemplary contributions to the school, both in and out of the classroom.
Among the many highlights of her Thunderbird journey, one stands out: the EMGM global field seminar trip to Taiwan. While Chang Esau had visited Taiwan many times as a child to visit her family, this trip allowed her to experience the country through a professional lens. “It was a completely different experience,” she said. “This time, I wasn’t just visiting family — I was gaining insight into Taiwan’s advanced industries.”
During the field seminar, Chang Esau visited companies across logistics, manufacturing, technology and textiles, with a particular focus on the Hsinchu Science Park, which is home to Taiwan’s semiconductor industry.
“It was incredible to see firsthand how Taiwan has become a leader in the semiconductor industry, and it’s a connection I can build on in Phoenix, where the semiconductor industry is also growing,” she said.
Looking ahead, Chang Esau is eager to leverage her Thunderbird education to further her work with Shan Strategies, the company she founded, which focuses on social impact. She is determined to broaden its scope to have a global reach, which aligns with her passions as a Thunderbird and globally-minded professional and individual.
Question: What do you love about being a T-bird?
Answer: What I love about being a T-bird is the vibrant international community of like-minded individuals from various backgrounds. The supportive and collaborative environment fosters a unique learning experience, and I truly appreciate the emphasis on global awareness and the opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: If I had $40 million to address one problem, I would focus on improving access to education and skills training globally, especially in underserved regions. I believe education is a fundamental right that drives personal and economic development.
Q: What advice would you give to a student just starting a program at Thunderbird?
A: My advice to new students is to identify the specific problems they are passionate about and approach their education with a mindset of service. It’s also crucial to be humble, seek help when needed and remain open to continuous learning.
Q: What motivates or inspires you?
A: I find inspiration in my family, who instilled in me the values of faith, hard work and excellence. Their unwavering support, especially from my husband and children, motivates me to strive for my best in every endeavor.
Q: For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
A: I am grateful for my parents, who have been instrumental in shaping my values and supporting my goals. Their love and encouragement are central to my identity and aspirations.
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