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Prof's lectures part Broadway, part EMBA

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Milind Rao is a force of nature as he imparts yet another life story to illustrate the complicated financial model to his audience of Kellogg-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Executive MBA students. An energetic presence, the former Columbia University professor recently received the 'Professor of the Year' award from the 2008 Kellogg-HKUST (KH) Executive MBA programme.

Professor Rao walks through the hallway during the hectic lunch break amid a chorus of congratulations from students. He acknowledges each with a joke, a vigorous handshake and a beaming smile.

'This is a great honour,' said Professor Rao, who was chosen by the KH10 class of 55 students.

'I enjoy teaching and am passionate about the material. The EMBA class is always demanding, stimulating and challenging. It is truly a treat to be here.'

The programme is not for the faint-hearted as Professor Rao explains the students play by the rules and show up on time expecting to learn not only from the professors but from each other's input.

'The students are motivated despite their different backgrounds,' he said. 'They want to learn and they don't mind showing their ignorance and patiently wait for others to ask their questions. You can see they think, 'I want to get something out of this' and they show up for class and pay attention. As a professor, this is engaging and challenging.'

The fast track EMBA programme is for executives who are on the run, often juggling work, family and university commitments. Professor Rao plans his two weekend courses throughout the year, building up his repertoire to engage and titillate the demanding class.

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