Christina Kim

Tell me a fun fact about yourself!

I have been an avid fan of video games since I was a toddler (there is video evidence). 

What were you doing before you joined INSEAD? 

Undergraduate studies! I graduated with honours in June, just two months before beginning the INSEAD MIM programme. I exited Northwestern University with a major in Cognitive Science and a minor in the Visual Arts (drawing and painting).

And can you tell me why you decided to apply for the MIM? What are your goals post-MIM? 

INSEAD is one of the most global business schools in the world (if not THE most!), with a strong presence in both Europe and Asia.

When I heard that INSEAD had created a new Master in Management programme a few years ago, I was elated and knew immediately that I would be applying.

Here, I hope to gain practical business knowledge and a broad network to leverage as I search for employment. Currently, I am focusing on consulting offices around APAC. 

It’s been a whirlwind first few weeks, how has everything been going? Memorable moments so far? First impressions? 

The programme has indeed been keeping us on our toes every day. There are always assignments to be completed, coffee chats to be had (thankfully, the coffee is free!), and applications to be submitted.

However, as cliche as it sounds, everyone I have met in the programme has been incredibly amicable and insightful, which has made the workload feel more akin to an opportunity for growth rather than a stressful burden; I can genuinely say that I am enjoying my time here thus far!

What are you most looking forward to during the rest of the programme? 

I am looking forward to further immersing myself in this new environment to learn skills that are completely foreign to my undergraduate discipline. 

Any tips for anyone who might be interested in pursuing a MIM in the future?

One of the most memorable phrases I heard during the MIM recruitment process is the following: "At INSEAD, everyone is a minority." And INSEAD's diversity is not limited to simply nationality.

Never be afraid to show how unique you really are, and INSEAD will see value in you! 

Parting words of wisdom? 

To those of you who do not have a business background like myself: I won't lie - it will be difficult. You will feel like you are lost, and you will feel like everyone is ahead of you. You might even feel like you aren't contributing adequately to certain group assignments. I won't tell you not to feel this way, because it would be hypocritical of me.

But I will tell you to constantly reach out to the people around you with uncertainties; your peers, past students (like myself!), professors, and INSEAD staff are all always willing to jump to their feet to help. Make full use of these resources, and I promise it will gradually get better!