MS in Organization Management and Strategy (OMS), Class of 2026
Toronto → Shanghai
Quick Facts About Lina
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Undergraduate Institution: Toronto Metropolitan University
Major: Film Studies
Reason for Choosing OMS:
Bridge creative storytelling with strategic business management
Post-MS Goal:
Launch and manage an international film production company
Additional Background:
Former film producer; speaks English, Mandarin, and Spanish
“This course showed me how to turn conflict into collaboration.”
— Lina Li
Lina capturing the vibrant alleys (弄堂) of Shanghai through her lens.
Academic Highlight: Negotiation
“It is an incredibly practical class that you can apply immediately.”
Lina’s favorite course has been Conflict, Collaboration and Negotiation, taught by Professor Seth Freeman — a class that stands out for its real-world applicability. Rather than waiting for a formal corporate setting, students are encouraged to apply negotiation frameworks directly in their daily lives.
Professor Freeman’s teaching style transforms what might feel like intimidating confrontations into collaborative problem-solving opportunities.
One of Lina’s most valuable takeaways was learning how to identify mutual interests. She quickly applied these techniques outside the classroom — successfully expediting her Chinese residence permit process and securing a filming location that had previously declined her request.
For Lina, the course goes beyond learning how to close a deal.
“It taught me how to navigate complex human dynamics to achieve better outcomes for everyone involved.”
Most Memorable Experience: Building Community Through Music
“The highlight wasn’t just the singing; more importantly, it was the connection.”
One of Lina’s most memorable moments was organizing a large karaoke night in New York’s Koreatown as a cohort leader.
Nearly the entire OMS cohort attended, turning the event into a vibrant cultural exchange. Classmates sang in multiple languages, sharing music from their own backgrounds and creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
But what stood out most to Lina was not the performance itself; rather, it was the sense of connection.
Seeing classmates interact, relax, and bond outside the classroom for the first time was incredibly meaningful. The experience marked the beginning of a strong community and reinforced the idea that the cohort is more than just a group of students.
It is a global network of friendships.
Studying and Living in Shanghai
“Shanghai is a city full of energy and constant surprises.”
Living in Shanghai has been an exciting and dynamic experience for Lina. The city offers endless opportunities from professional growth to unique cultural experiences.
As someone who enjoys staying active, she has joined a local run club called MoveCrew and regularly plays ultimate frisbee and tennis. One of her most memorable experiences was attending a techno x wellness event, where participants practiced Tai Chi to electronic music — a perfect example of how Shanghai blends tradition with modern, Gen-Z innovation.
What stands out most to her is the city’s sense of purpose.
“Everyone here seems to be driven by something.”
Coming from Toronto, Lina finds Shanghai’s fast-paced and ambitious environment deeply motivating. The city’s energy has even shaped her future plans, as she now considers making Shanghai a base for her film career.
Lina running the Nike 10k After Dark Tour in Shanghai.
Final Words for Future Students
“Stay open, stay curious, and take every opportunity to connect. You never know where it might lead.”