Francisco Cortesi

Could you share something unexpected about you?

I consider myself an adventurer, both inside and outside the office. Whether it's cycling through Patagonia, skiing La Vallée Blanche in Chamonix, or contributing value to a real estate investment company through the development of Chile's first timber residential building.

Tell us about yourself, and how you go to where you are today both on a professional and personal level?

Hailing from the southern region of Chile, I am the eldest of four siblings.

My upbringing was deeply intertwined with entrepreneurship, thanks to my family's unwavering entrepreneurial spirit.

This influence has become an integral part of my identity and shapes my worldview. Choosing to pursue my education at INSEAD was a natural decision for me. The institution not only recognises but also nurtures this entrepreneurial perspective. It offers an environment that encourages exploration and provides access to a diverse community of individuals who share my vision.

What motivated you to choose the INSEAD MBA, and how do you envision it aligning with your future goals, even at this early stage?

I chose the INSEAD MBA for its strong European connections, promising ROI, and commitment to quality learning and networking.

It aligns perfectly with my goal to establish myself in the European market and offers a valuable, well-rounded educational experience.

What were your impressions of campus life so far and how did you navigate accommodation, and sorting out all the admin? Any tips for incoming students?

While some might associate France with bureaucracy, INSEAD and Fontainebleau town have streamlined processes. Accommodation is easily accessible with a wide range of options for everyone.

I recommend initiating preparations after accepting your slot at INSEAD, including handling visa and document validations. INSEAD offers comprehensive step-by-step guides, but it's best to start once you've made your decision to attend.

Could you share a little about your application process, securing financing, and making your way to Singapore/Fontainebleau?

The financing was provided through Prodigy Finance in a convenient and straightforward manner, enabling me to cover the costs without depleting my savings.

They provided clear explanations of the terms and demonstrated flexibility based on individual circumstances. The application process, while thorough, is supported by ample resources to assist you in navigating each step. In my personal experience, the alumni interview played a pivotal role in affirming that INSEAD was the right next step for me.

In your first few weeks, what aspects of the INSEAD MBA have stood out to you as unique or particularly appealing?

What stood out to me the most so far is the sense of community that quickly developed within our diverse cohort, along with the high level of commitment exhibited by everyone, from the academics to the alumni.

Aside from your academic pursuits, what extracurricular interests or activities are you exploring at INSEAD, and how do you see them enhancing your overall MBA experience?

In addition to taking advantage of the extended networking opportunities, I'm excited to delve into the world of wine tasting, immerse myself in various cultural experiences, and even pursue a WSET course to further enrich my existing knowledge. What better setting to deepen my understanding of wine than its very birthplace? Furthermore, I'm looking forward to joining the cryptocurrency club, as my passion for this field has been a driving force since 2017.

Any parting words of wisdom?

If you feel stressed or overwhelmed, take a big breath and start planning. Even though I try to commit with this statement, sometimes you can get caught in the action.