In The Know by INSEAD

Episode #43 - Beyond ROI: The real value of the INSEAD Executive MBA

Join guest host Antony Widjaja, Associate Director of Executive Degrees Programme Recruitment & Partnerships at INSEAD, as he sits down with TIEMBA'17 alumna Levenza Toh and current GEMBA participant Rachid Ouazizi to uncover the transformative impact of the INSEAD Executive MBA.

 

In this insightful conversation, they explore diverse approaches to funding the programme—whether through personal investment or securing employer support—and share valuable strategies for building a strong business case to gain company backing. They also discuss the unique challenges and rewards of the Executive MBA experience, offering a holistic view of the programme’s value that extends far beyond financial returns.

 

Tune in for practical advice and inspiration, whether you’re self-funding or seeking corporate assistance for this pivotal career investment.

Episode #42 - Pursuing Your MBA as a New Mother - Student Life Feature

In this episode of the In The Know Podcast, we delve into the unique challenges and triumphs of pursuing an MBA while managing the responsibilities of parenthood. Join us as we explore the journey of navigating the INSEAD MBA programme with a baby, from the initial decision to enrol, to overcoming major concerns and preparing for life in Fontainebleau. 

We’ll discuss the essential support systems and childcare challenges faced during the programme. Finally, we'll share insights on how the MBA experience can influence careers and offer valuable advice for future MBA parents. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative conversation that sheds light on this inspiring journey.

The guests:
Rola Awad (MBA’24J)
MBA'24J Rola Awad is a licensed pharmacist who leads a team of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to deliver community-based pharmacy and counselling services. Beyond her work in pharmacy, she is dedicated to enhancing her management and business skills. On a personal level, Rola enjoys organic gardening and supports community-based aid programmes.
Mazen Ferzley (24J MBA Partner)

Host:
Eva Laporte (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes)

Timestamps

1:10 - About the guests and reasons for applying to INSEAD?

2:32 – Deciding to pursue the INSEAD MBA with a baby

3:10 – Major concerns and preparation for the year in Fontainebleau

4:23 – Navigating the MBA, keys to making it work

6:28 – Support systems & childcare challenges during the MBA  

10:11 – Biggest challenges and how to overcome them

12:01 – Managing classes and breastfeeding

13:03 – The MBA experience and influence on careers

14:28 – Advice and tips for future MBA parents

 

Episode #41 - More Than a Club: OUTSEAD & LGBTQ+ Inclusion at INSEAD

Welcome to another episode of INSEAD's In The Know podcast.

In this episode, we'll discuss with MBA'24J Jeffry Lum about his experiences in OUTSEAD.

OUTSEAD is a fun-loving and inclusive club representing the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) community at INSEAD. The club aims to foster an inclusive atmosphere for everyone on campus and provide a social network for community members and allies.

Expect to learn about the diversity and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community at INSEAD and the various scholarships available to the community.

Head to insead.edu/mba to learn more about our MBA programme!

Have a great listen! 

Our Guests Today:

Jeffry Lum
MBA’24J is a co-president of OUTSEAD with experience organizing community events. He is also a member of the LGBTQ+ Community.

Ben Ning
As Assistant Director for Marketing and Recruitment at INSEAD, Ben is responsible for driving business development and student recruitment efforts for INSEAD's full-time MBA and MIM programmes across Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan) and India.

Timestamps

0:25 - What you can expect in the episode

2:25 - Why was Jeffry drawn to INSEAD

4:38 - Diversity at INSEAD

5:02 - The role of allies

8:38 - How has society progressed so far?

10:31 - What drives Jeffry to keep striving for change

11:50 - Support from INSEAD

12:55 - Scholarships

15:31 - The special bond among classmates

Episode #40 - INSEAD MBA Student Life in Singapore

In this episode, we'll talk with Jay Kenton (Associate Director of Student Life & Experience (Degree Programmes) and Saraphine Pang (MBA'24J) about their experiences of student life on INSEAD's Asia campus. 

Expect to learn about the career perks of living in Singapore, common misconceptions, cost and accommodation, student life on campus, and more. Head to insead.edu/mba to learn more about our MBA programme! 

Enjoy the show!

Our Guests Today

Saraphine Pang

Saraphine Pang (MBA'24J) is a skilled strategist with expertise in international business development and strategic marketing initiatives. With a career spanning the dynamic gaming industry landscape, Saraphine has honed her skills across multiple markets, including the United States, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. Her extensive experience underscores a deep understanding of global business dynamics and strategic decision-making, positioning her as a versatile and valuable asset in her field.

Jay Kenton

As the Associate Director of student life for degree programmes at INSEAD, Jay Kenton is a catalyst for student engagement and community building, revolutionizing the educational experience beyond conventional boundaries. Jay orchestrates opportunities for hundreds of students from varied backgrounds to interconnect and exchange ideas poised to shape society's future. His impact reverberates across several institutions, where he has pioneered innovative initiatives encompassing social and creative development programs, student wellness initiatives, and strategic enrollment planning.

Timestamps

0:50 About our guests

2:42 How Jay feels about Singapore

3:45 What inspired Saraphine to pursue her MBA

4:40 Opportunities in Asia

5:40 What’s Saraphine’s experience with the INSEAD MBA

10:35 Cost of living in Singapore

11:15 MBA Career Treks

13:10 How has INSEAD helped Saraphine prepare for what’s next in her career?

13:30 Working with people form different cultures

14:30 What does student life do at INSEAD?

17:20 Student clubs at INSEAD

21:35 Student life advice to students

Episode #39 - Women overcoming bias, building resilience, and letting go of guilt

In this episode, we'll hear from Priyanka Nath, who will share about her experiences, challenges, and opportunities she has faced as a woman in the working world.

Our Guest Today

Priyanka Nath is a strategic and results-driven marketer with 16 years of experience in the Asia-Pacific region's travel, technology, lifestyle retail and FMCG sectors.

With roles and responsibilities across B2B/B2C operations, global/country/regional teams and traditional/new media campaigns, she has cultivated a broad skill set and an agile approach.

She is an ardent believer in the digital medium and its potential to transform multiple facets of our lives—the trajectory of our careers, the business models of the companies we work for, and our community at large.
 

About Limitless

We live in a world of constraints—some physical, some cultural, but always personal. These mindsets limit our human potential to achieve great things in life and hinder experiences that not only enrich ourselves but also benefit society at large.

Through LIMITLESS, INSEAD strives to create a diverse community where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and pursue their ambitions.

In honour of this commitment, we are proud to launch "Ambition Has No Gender - Stories of Vulnerability and Courage".

Head to https://insead.edu/limitless to learn more!

Timestamps

1:17 - Priyanka's self-introduction
1:50 - Transition into setting up her own business
4:24 - Common barriers she faced as a woman in the working world
10:00 - How she felt when facing discrimination
10:57 - Advice to women who have faced discrimination
14:10 - The broken rung
14:26 - Common issues that women face in the working world
17:15 - Importance of her support system
21:32 - What led her to pursue her MBA at INSEAD
23:08 - How has INSEAD helped her career
24:45 - Her role models
26:58 - Her message to other women

Have a great listen! 

Episode #38 Choosing the Singapore Campus for your INSEAD MBA

Welcome to another episode of INSEAD's In The Know podcast.

 

In this episode, we'll discuss with MBA24j's Ankita Pathak about her experiences as an MBA candidate in INSEAD's Asia campus. 

 

Expect to learn about global career and networking opportunities, student life, our curriculum, and more.

Furthermore, we'll delve into how pursuing your MBA in Singapore allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the global economy and how you can get on-the-ground exposure to various industries.

 

Head to www.insead.edu/mba to learn more about our MBA programme!

 

Have a great listen! 

Episode #37 - Special Feature: Student Governance at INSEAD | Student Life

By joining the INSEAD MBA, you choose academic excellence, a rich diverse community and extracurricular opportunities to enhance your overall student experience. As the world's future leaders, why not leverage these opportunities and hone your leadership skills by taking on an impactful leadership position? 

For example, be the voice of your section as a class representative, be a member of a club management team for one of the 40+ clubs, help recruit for future MBA intakes as a student ambassador, or represent and advocate for the student body as a whole by being part of the student council. 

So what exactly do these different roles involve? What impact can you make and what is some advice on balancing your busy student life with these responsibilities? In this podcast episode hosts Angela and Eva speak to two students from the MBA'23J cohort to learn more. 

Purpose, Advantages, and Networking Opportunities - Unlocking Career Opportunities #3

Welcome to another episode of "Unlocking Career Opportunities with INSEAD Employer Engagement." Join us as we uncover more about the Career Development Centres Employer Engagement teams with the team Global Directors Zeynep Fouret and Henrik Jonson. We discuss the team's unique advantages including connecting students with local champions and global companies. Discover how the employee engagement team facilitates student-professional networking and the diverse types of engagements available with companies. Furthermore, we'll delve into the flexibility and timelines for joining Insead's clubs and the invaluable resource of its extensive alumni network. 

Our Guests

Zeynep Flouret
Zeynep is a former M&A and project finance lawyer, Certified career coach, Financial services recruitment specialist, and diversity and inclusion champion. Zeynep is Passionate about leadership development, talent development, executive coaching, interview preparation, cross-cultural awareness training, and recruitment of future leaders.
Henrik Jonson
Henrik is a Business Development Strategist with 15 years of experience expanding territories and building client relationships across a variety of industries. Henrik has an extensive understanding of Education Management and business environment which has translated directly into new and add-­on business.

Content Covered

1. What is the purpose of the employer engagement team?
2. We are going to dive into the sector advisors in the next episodes. Can you describe the structure of the team? 
3. How does the CDC help students network and connect with professionals in their desired industries?
4. "What are the most effective ways to stay informed about the evolving needs and expectations of employers, and how can individuals proactively develop the skills and qualities that are in high demand?

Navigating Career Journeys with Lifelong Learning - Unlocking Career Opportunities #2

In today's rapidly evolving world, where technological advancements and shifting global landscapes continuously reshape industries, the concept of lifelong learning has emerged as a beacon of success. Embracing a mindset of constant growth and intellectual curiosity, individuals actively engage in lifelong learning and position themselves for remarkable career advantages. This transformative approach to education not only fosters adaptability and resilience, but also opens doors to new opportunities, enhances professional competence, and cultivates a deeper understanding of the intricacies within one's chosen field. By embracing the philosophy of lifelong learning, individuals can navigate the ever-changing professional landscape with confidence, agility, and the unwavering ability to seize the future's boundless prospects.

Welcome to episode two of our INSEAD Career Development Centre mini-series. Join us as we explore the lifelong career management skills imparted by the CDC, as well as how the centre helps high-potential talent navigate the job market and identify suitable career options.

In today's episode, we delve into the world of lifelong learning and its indispensable role in shaping successful career journeys. We are joined by Larry Medina, the Director of Career Coaching and Education at INSEAD, joining us as our special guest. Larry will share invaluable insights on how INSEAD cultivates impactful learning experiences for their vibrant community, ensuring continuous growth and development. As we embark on this enlightening conversation, we will explore the strategies to embrace lifelong learning at any stage of one's professional journey and discover how it propels individuals towards their desired career objectives. Furthermore, we will unravel the secrets of navigating the twists and turns in the ever-evolving business landscape, all while upholding the principles of global citizenship and making a positive impact on the world.

Our Guest

Larry Medina

Larry is the Director of Career Coaching and Education at INSEAD and a seasoned professional in Student Services, Finance, Human Resources, Accounting and Operations, with 30 years of professional experience in Asia (19 years), North America and Europe. Larry is passionate about helping others reach their career aspirations through hundreds of 1-on-1 sessions and career development workshops.

Timestamp

1:43 - What does the CDC do to ensure INSEAD continues to offer impactful learning experiences for the INSEAD community?

3:52 - What are the different populations at INSEAD and how do their career journeys differ?

6:53 - What are some effective strategies for continually learning and growing in your career, no matter what stage you're at in your professional journey?

10:37 - How can one navigate the various twists and turns in their career journey, and continually embrace the idea of lifelong learning, to eventually achieve their desired end goal or career objective?

12:32 - Is career progression for everybody?

13:35 - What steps can one take to build a successful career while embracing the principles of global citizenship and positively impacting the world?

Partnering With INSEAD: Insights, Support, and Community_StudentLife Feature_ITK#36

Partners play a crucial role in the MBA experience, providing support, encouragement, and a listening ear throughout the intense and challenging program. They are often the unsung heroes behind the success of MBA students, offering a sense of stability and perspective during a time of significant personal and professional growth. From relocating to a new country to managing a household, partners have to navigate a unique set of challenges while supporting their significant other in pursuit of their academic and career goals. In this context, understanding the partner experience and providing support to partners is essential for the INSEAD MBA to cultivate a supportive and inclusive community.

This episode discusses the experiences of a partner at INSEAD, a business school with campuses in Europe and Asia. Our guest Helen Willis shares her excitement about her partner's acceptance to INSEAD, and discusses her own decision to join him in Singapore. Helen provides advice for partners who are working remotely, including the importance of having a purpose and setting aside sacred time. The episode also highlights the support provided by INSEAD to partners, the responsibilities of a partner representative and the initiatives they organise. Helen also shares her favourite memory at INSEAD and summarises her overall experience in three words or less.

Our guests: 

Dr. Helen Willis (Cognitive neuroscientist and an MBA'23J Partner) 

Our hosts: 

Angela Rachel (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes) 

Eva Laporte (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes) 

Timestamp:

 

01:15 - About the guest and her background 

01:45 - How did you feel about your student partner's acceptance to INSEAD?

02:35 – Decision to accompany Student partner to INSEAD 

04:13 – The INSEAD Partner experience

05:30 – How INSEAD fosters the community spirit among partners 

07:00 – Advice for Partners who may be juggling work

10:22 – INSEAD resources that are useful for personal and professional development 

11:55  – Advice for partners to maximize their time on and outside of INSEAD

13:40  – Opportunities and responsibilities of a Partner representative

16:20  – Favorite memory at INSEAD