Reflections of A '20D Singy Partner

Karmen Vavrovic

Joining the MBA is an adventure for BOTH of you!

I thought the INSEAD MBA would be only my husband’s adventure.

He would explore and I would participate in that by co-piloting his journey. Moving anywhere to support your significant other can definitely seem overwhelming at first, but this has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life and I am so happy to be here! In hindsight, I have to say that it’s an experience for both of you, not just the student!

INSEAD is the place where you begin to dream again.

Take your time 

There is something special about INSEAD. You become part of a big group of people that contribute to each others' needs, and you create your own little family far away from your real one. You get inspired every single day by amazing people. You can discuss your ideas and thoughts, but also your fears, during workshops and meetings organised by INSEAD for partners. You create amazing friendships and memories, and you also receive the best support for your personal and career growth.

I feel privileged to have been part of such a passionate, smart, caring and fun family, and to have enjoyed getting to know these amazing people, be motivated by them, to have had the chance to slow down again, open my mind and begin to dream about things and ways in my life that I had I already forgotten.

This year has been a real eye-opener.

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Make the most out of it.

Try to make this year unforgettable. Enjoy your time to fullest!

Find your way to be social. I have never been a party person but to open my mind, ears and heart to others was one of the best things I did. I received the best support, realised that I am not the only one with concerns and it helped me to get to know people more, learn about them, their cultures, lives and create amazing life-long friendships.

Get involved! Hang out on campus, go to events with your partner, and be active in the school community.

The MBA experience is academic, but also social and an excellent opportunity to further your career through networking as well.

It is also a very demanding time for your partner, so the more you are involved in the experience, the better your relationship will be throughout the programme.

Travel. Seeing the world provides an "education" that's absolutely impossible to get in school. Meeting people from different cultures has increased my connection with myself, and created a new sense of empathy for strangers. It has made me more grounded and thankful for everything that I have in my life.

The end?

I am 100% certain that many people whom we have met at INSEAD will be friends for life.

And after graduation we are continuing to get to know amazing people from all across the globe. Our INSEAD community will not cease to play a role in our life, it will just be spread out. Although the MBA is your partner's dream, as significant other, you are part of that dream. Don’t forget that! You dream and live it together.