Knock, and the Doors Will Open at INSEAD

Suganth Kannan

Why did you choose to come to INSEAD?

When selecting a business school, I was looking for a well-ranked full-time MBA programme with a predominantly international student body and a strong alumni network in various sectors. 

With a business background from Wharton, I knew what to consider when choosing an MBA programme—its strengths, opportunities, and potential weaknesses. INSEAD ticked all the boxes, standing out as the #1 ranked business school in Europe (Financial Times 2024) with an alumni network spanning over 175 countries, covering more than 90% of the globe.

Also, a conversation with a local businessman during a recent business trip to Abu Dhabi had piqued my interest. He shared how one of his partners, an INSEAD MBA graduate, significantly contributed to his business growth in the GCC region over two decades. 

This conversation highlighted to me the valuable business management skills INSEAD instils in its MBA students, reinforcing the school's reputation and impact.

What was your experience in the application process to INSEAD?

Suganth Kannan, INSEAD MBA'25D student

The INSEAD application process is unique because of the interviews done by committed alumni who are industry leaders. With less than 30 days to the deadline, I decided to apply. My interviews with experts from infrastructure materials and advanced manufacturing sectors affirmed that INSEAD was the right fit. 

I took the GMAT, scored perfectly in the quantitative section, and ranked in the 100th percentile overall. 

(Note: INSEAD suggests a 60th percentile for the verbal component and a 66th percentile for quantitative and data insights. Test scores are just one of several admission criteria.)    

I was originally admitted to the 26J class but requested to join the 25D cohort instead. After a thorough review, INSEAD approved my request and awarded me a scholarship. The staff facilitated a seamless transition, helping me catch up on pre-MBA leadership materials in just a week. The support I received made my integration into the 25D class smooth and efficient.

What was your career path before INSEAD?

I completed my Wharton degree in two years instead of four. Following that, my first job was in an American aerospace and defence company, working on high-value projects for the US government which broadened my global business perspective.

I then served as Vice President of Sales at a steel manufacturing firm and, most recently, as General Manager for a real estate development and energy services company.

How has your P0 experience been at INSEAD?

I decided to join INSEAD’s January 2025 intake in mid-December 2024. Thanks to coordinated efforts from three departments, I swiftly secured the paperwork for my long-term visa. My classmates, through WhatsApp and Telegram, helped me find housing, which helped to streamline my visa process, enabling me to obtain my French visa in just a week. Incroyable!

P0 is a foundational programme that eases students into INSEAD's culture and hones leadership skills. I’ve had a fantastic experience, learning from career coaches and engaging with Student Life Director Katja Boytler on new club ideas. I even managed to form a team and submit a proposal for a global consulting competition. Voilà! A week later, our proposal is one of the top ones selected for the next level of the competition. 

So, for me, the P0 ride so far has been like driving a Bugatti through the Grand Corniche along the Côte d'Azur.

How was Launch Week at INSEAD's Fontainebleau Campus?

Launch Week with the INSEAD MBA'25D Class

Launch Week featured a full-day course called "Introduction to General Management", taught by Senior Affiliate Professor of Strategy Felipe Monteiro from Brazil. 

The class was held in a beautiful, state-of-the-art amphitheatre where Prof. Monteiro imparted the key concepts of "How to Be a Successful General Manager" in an engaging manner. 

 

He created an inclusive atmosphere in a diverse classroom with students from six continents and solicited input evenly from students in all areas of the classroom. I felt everyone's knowledge and experience was valued.

My interactions with the Dean and faculty, all with multi-continental experience, further underscored the global perspective at INSEAD.

As part of the Personal Leadership Development Programme (PLDP), I joined a diverse team of ten students, representing five continents and 16 languages. The outdoor team building activities in a historic French mansion were invaluable, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.

What is your plan during and after INSEAD?

During my time at INSEAD, I aim to master two new languages, each from a different continent. Through the Reciprocity Rings exercise at INSEAD, an activity conducted during Launch Week, I have already built my own mini-language immersion programme by connecting with native-speaking peers.

Post-INSEAD, I plan to join a dynamic organisation, drive innovation, enhance client relationships, and contribute to stakeholder satisfaction. My commitment to alumni engagement at Wharton, where I became the youngest State Alumni Club President and was deeply involved in the community, inspires me to give back to INSEAD in similar benevolent ways.