Emeka Ogodazi

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name’s Emeka, and I’ve just finished sixth form. I’ll be going to university next year, but I’ve decided to take a year to gain some work experience and explore my passions more deeply. I’ll be spending time working in companies in Nigeria, Italy, and the UK, which will give me a broader perspective on business and culture. I’m also using the year to pursue some personal goals: take iRacing to a competitive level, prepare for my Grade 8 cello exam, and earn a football coaching qualification. This year is a chance to challenge myself in different environments and make a more informed decision about what I want to study.

Where are you from?

I’m British and live in the UK, my dad is Nigerian, my mother is Italian and I was born in South Africa, where I spent the first 2 years of my life. I then lived in Panamá for about 5 years, before returning to the UK. I also speak Italian and Spanish, and have travelled widely with my family from a young age.
 

Why did you decide to join the INSEAD Summer School?

My dad earned his MBA from INSEAD, so I’ve always been familiar with the school. Over the past couple of years, I’ve developed a growing interest in business, especially through studying economics and reading books like Shoe Dog and The Machine That Changed the World, which introduced me to ideas like lean production and innovation in the car industry. Since I’m considering studying business and management or economics at university, the Summer School felt like a great opportunity to explore these subjects from a practical point of view, meet people from around the world, and see whether this path is something I really want to pursue.

What aspect of business interests you most?

Definitely the entrepreneurial side, creating something new, improving it over time, working with people from different backgrounds, and getting the most out of your team.

That’s one of the best parts of INSEAD: it’s so culturally diverse. I’ve learned a lot about how to interact with people from all over the world.

What skills have you developed during the programme?

We’ve had great classes, including negotiation, but the most impactful skill I’ve developed is learning to adapt to different cultures. People from different backgrounds respond and interact to situations differently and expect different things from you. I didn't realise the impact it could have if you don't properly accommodate yourself to someone else's culture. 

How has your experience in Fontainebleau been?

This is my first time in France. I’ve really enjoyed Fontainebleau — it’s small, friendly, and surrounded by forest, which is a nice change from London. I love running, and going for runs in the forest has been peaceful and refreshing.

Have you made friends here?

Yes, lots. There’s a wide age range and I’ve been able to bond with people a few years older than me. Even after the course, we have talked about helping each other when we go to our respective countries, finding work or building new connections.

Any favourite classes or projects?

The First 100 Days simulation was a highlight. My group worked really well together, and I learned so much — from reading balance sheets to understanding what it’s like to acquire and run a business. It was challenging but very rewarding.

What should future participants bring with them?

The basics: a pen, notebook, and laptop. If you’re staying on campus, you don’t need to worry about towels or toiletries, but bring a suit for the closing ceremony — it’s a nice way to mark the occasion.

What would you say to someone considering the Summer School?

If you’re genuinely interested and committed in learning about business and want to explore it further, this is definitely worth it. You’ll have lots of fun and meet plenty of people you can connect with.