Grace Wang

Tell us about yourself and your background.

I’m Grace Wang, from northern China. I spent seven years studying in Wuhan, completing a bachelor’s in English and French literature and then a master’s in English interpretation. While the academic workload wasn’t overwhelming, I sought out professional experiences alongside my studies.

For two years, I freelanced as an interpreter at exhibitions, business events, and government meetings, covering industries from agriculture and industrial equipment to medical and new energy. I also worked on major government projects, where I managed large conferences. That meant coordinating over 100 volunteers and suppliers daily — a crash course in leadership and organisation.

These experiences made me realise I was fascinated by strategic planning and market entry questions. They pushed me to look for formal business training and a path into consulting. 

Why did you choose the INSEAD MIM?

Because of my background in French literature, I only looked at French business schools. I was admitted to a few, including HEC and ESSEC, but INSEAD stood out.

First, the design of the programme is different. Most French schools take two or three years, whereas INSEAD’s one-year format is more intense and efficient. Second, the global perspective was decisive. At INSEAD, I wouldn’t just meet French and Chinese classmates — I would be part of a cohort representing the world. The Abu Dhabi trip also appealed to me; I’ve always been curious about the Middle East.

And finally, I was awarded the Diversity Scholarship. That recognition made me feel embraced by the community even before I arrived. 

How have your first weeks at INSEAD been?

We joke that it feels like we’ve been living in Fontainebleau forever! Every day is packed. Classes, lunches, clubs, evenings with classmates. It’s 24/7 with the same group of people, and that intensity is already changing us. We’re becoming more open to cultures, to new topics, and to each other.  

When I first arrived, Fontainebleau felt like a peaceful holiday town.

Once the programme started, the atmosphere shifted; now it’s a vibrant, close-knit community. You see classmates walking together from campus, sharing houses, hosting dinners. It makes it easy to connect and feel part of something bigger.

You’ve joined the Student Council. How is that shaping your MIM experience?

Yes, I’m on the Student Council as HR and Communications. We’re four members: president, vice-president, treasurer and me, and we manage student life, budgets, and initiatives. If someone has an idea for a cultural exchange, a dinner, or an event, we help them make it happen. I love that I can support my classmates’ ideas and help bring them to life.

One initiative I’m particularly passionate about is women’s empowerment. This year, women make up 37% of the cohort, lower than the last intake. We’ve already started connecting with the MBA Student Council and Women in Business Club to create workshops and mentorship opportunities. On a smaller scale, I’m even organising dinners where women in the MIM can share their professional aspirations. 

How has the Career Development Centre (CDC) supported you so far?

Even before arriving on campus, I had a session with my career coach during P0. My parents were surprised as they’d never seen a school provide that level of personalised career support.

Since then, I’ve completed my CV review, and I’m working on motivational letters. Because I want to go into consulting, I’ve tapped into the CDC’s consulting track resources. There are also plenty of company events; for example, I recently attended a Roland Berger presentation and spoke to an INSEAD MBA alum based in Belgium. We’re planning a coffee chat, and I’m excited to hear more about short-term relocation opportunities. These kinds of connections are irreplaceable. 

Why consulting?

My interpreting work exposed me to so many industries. I found myself drawn to the strategy questions companies face: how to enter markets, how to design operations. I also interned at Bain in China and loved the experience, even if I knew I wasn’t yet fully equipped. Consulting feels like the best place to start: a generalist role where I can learn the fundamentals before specialising. 

What skills are you hoping to gain during the MIM?

Leadership and management skills are top of the list. Through the Student Council and the LEAD programme, I’ve already learned how to communicate more effectively with talented people from around the world. I also want to improve my English expression, so I can operate seamlessly in international teams.

The alumni network is another resource I’m excited to keep exploring. Meeting alumni at events and hearing about their career paths makes the consulting world feel more tangible and accessible. 

What impact do you hope to make by graduation?

First, I want to build lifelong friendships. I’ve already been touched by how open and supportive everyone is: no prejudice, just people here for the same goal.

Second, I want to strengthen the INSEAD community. The alumni network is powerful. I’ve already joined a WeChat group of over 150 Chinese MIMs from 2020 onwards. It’s inspiring to see how connected they remain across Shanghai, Singapore and beyond. I hope my cohort will carry the same spirit forward. 

What advice would you give to future applicants?

Don’t lose confidence if you don’t come from a traditional business background. I was nervous at first; my path through literature and interpretation seemed unusual. But I took time to reflect on my personal and professional journey, mapping out why I made certain decisions, what I learned from different cultures, and where I want to go. That self-knowledge shaped my essays and interviews, and it’s what INSEAD looks for.

Diversity is real here, and if you can show your unique story and leadership potential, you’ll find your place.