INSEAD MIM: Where a year feels like a lifetime

Dear MIM’27,

First of all, congratulations.

You’ve made it. I hope you take a second to sit with that and be proud of how far you’ve come.

If I could go back and do this year all over again, I would. I’d do it a little slower this time because the truth is, it goes by fast.

 So while you’re here, really be here. The year will unfold on its own, and you just have to show up, fully.  

A few things I learned along the way:

1. INSEAD is an all-you-can-eat buffet

Someone told me this on the very first day, and I laughed. But they were right. There’s always something happening and somehow, also nothing at all. You’ll constantly feel like you’re choosing between things. It’s easy to get caught up in doing it all, but you don’t have to. Fill your plate with what truly matters to you, and stop when you need to. The rest will still be there tomorrow.

2. Growth lives on the other side of discomfort

Some of the most meaningful things I did this year were the ones that scared me. The roles I thought I wasn’t ready for. The conversations I thought I’d mess up. The opportunities I almost didn’t take. If something makes you a little nervous, lean into it. This is the year to stretch yourself, and you might be surprised by what you’re capable of.

3. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness

I used to think I had to have it all together, all the time. But no one does. You’ll be amazed by how willing people are to show up for you if you just let them. You don’t have to do this alone, and you’re not expected to.

A final thought

While you’re here, give yourself the space to connect not just with the people who feel easy to talk to, but also with those who see the world differently from you. Those are the people who will shape this year in ways you won’t expect.

Wishing you all the very best for this wild, beautiful year ahead.

You can always reach out to us if you need someone to talk to. The MIM alumni community is always here, rooting for you.

Welcome to the MIM family. You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.