I didn’t want a continuation of “work” but a hard shift that gave me the time to reconnect and rediscover my whole self; while tangibly advantaging myself on my return.
When I ventured into the world of INSEAD, the prevailing wisdom whispered that changing three pivotal dimensions of one's career - Location, Industry, and Function - was nothing short of a Herculean feat, if not outright impossible.
Yet, here I stand today, a suitcase in hand, ready to embark on the journey of my dreams - an achievement made possible by the unwavering support of the entire INSEAD community.
The first week of the INSEAD MBA was definitely nothing like I had anticipated.
One of the first things that hits you is the parties.
I know. I know. Everyone talks about it, but no matter how many times you hear it, it’s not enough – brace yourself :). You can successfully party everyday if you want to. Every. Day.
Greetings to all who share a fervent passion for catalysing change and moulding a better world. As I stand at the juncture of my internship voyage with PANL Business Consulting and Services, I am thrilled to unveil the profound imprint of the INSEAD Hoffmann Institute Impact Internship Stipend – a journey that transcends financial backing and dives deep into the heart of social impact.
Illuminating the path ahead
Since college, I have been trying to make a difference in social impact and sustainability.
Starting from 2012, I volunteered in South Africa for one month to provide underprivileged kids with quality education. Subsequently, I participated in reforestation as well as marine conservation initiatives.
It was then that I realised, compared to traveling abroad, it could be more impactful to help my local community first.
Reaching out to alums and current students is extremely important. Asking about their experiences, the university’s culture and values, the best classes and professors, exciting clubs and organisations, and even prospective projects is the best way to get to know the school.
There are certain times of the year at INSEAD when one particular type of conversation dominates any other.
As the end of the first period approached, everyone wanted to know whether you were going on exchange, with questions distilled down to “Fonty or Singy P5?”
This summer, we interned with Group AID with the support of the INSEAD Hoffmann Institute Impact Internship Stipend.
Darrel led the organisation’s business development efforts for its latest proposition of CSR packages for corporates, while Chao Yang led efforts to uncover new workshop offerings for Group AID to expand its suite of services.
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