Why the INSEAD Summer School is more than just a classroom experience

The INSEAD Summer School brings together bright, motivated individuals from across the globe for two weeks of intensive learning and personal growth. The experience goes far beyond traditional lectures — it blends academic rigour with cultural exchange, teamwork, and hands-on application.

For many participants, the attraction lies in learning business concepts that may not be available in their home education systems, while also gaining clarity on their academic and career ambitions. One student summed it up simply: “I wanted to understand the ins and outs of business, and this gave me a chance to see if I want to pursue it further.”

The diversity of the cohort is central to the programme’s value. 

With students from high school to recent graduates, and from countries as varied as Norway, Jordan, Italy, and the UK, each classroom discussion offers a unique mix of perspectives. Participants learn not only from professors but also from one another — comparing cultural approaches to problem-solving, sharing career advice, and building friendships that span continents.

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Experiential learning is a hallmark of the Summer School. Activities such as the Give and Take exercise, where participants share resources and contacts to help one another reach personal or professional goals, bring the concept of networking to life. Outdoor leadership challenges, negotiation simulations, and business case competitions allow students to test their skills in realistic, high-pressure environments.

The impact of these experiences is often immediate. Students report discovering practical tools they can apply straight away — from decision-making techniques like anchoring to strategies for building influence in group settings. 

The value extends beyond professional contexts, shaping how they approach everyday challenges.

The setting in Fontainebleau enhances the experience. The campus, surrounded by forest and steeped in history, offers a unique environment for learning and reflection. In their free time, participants explore the town, visit the château, and take in the cultural richness of the region.

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Above all, the Summer School fosters a mindset of openness and collaboration. As one participant advised, “Be open and talk to as many people as you can — that’s where the real value lies.” The connections formed here often outlast the two weeks, evolving into a network of peers who continue to share ideas and opportunities long after the programme ends.

In just a short time, the INSEAD Summer School offers an immersion into global business thinking, a platform for personal development, and a community that inspires participants to aim higher. It is an experience that both challenges and empowers — leaving a lasting mark on how students see themselves and their future.