Jakob Rak

Could you share something unexpected or a fun fact about you?

During my undergrad, I spent a semester abroad at the University of Kigali in Rwanda, where I was one of only two non-African students. The university’s culture was completely different from what I was used to, which made the experience incredibly enriching.

Tell us about yourself, and how you got to where you are today?

I grew up in Ehingen, a small town in the South of Germany. After an undergraduate degree in international business, I decided to join Husqvarna Group, a Swedish technology and manufacturing company. 

I started off developing market entry strategies for new product segments and later transitioned into the corporate strategy team, where I worked on expanding the company’s brand licensing business. Two years ago, I was offered the opportunity to relocate to Zurich and lead the strategy and business development activities of a business unit manufacturing and selling robotic lawnmowers. 

I enjoyed every second of my time at Husqvarna. However, after spending several years in the same company, I felt it was the perfect time to step outside my comfort zone and seek new perspectives, which led me to pursue my MBA at INSEAD. 

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

After chatting with people who had experienced different MBA programmes, I quickly realised that the true value of an MBA comes from the people – your classmates, professors, and alumni. Every INSEAD alum I met spoke so highly of their experience, and they were all, without exception, friendly, collaborative, and genuine.

INSEAD’s global network is incredibly valuable for someone pursuing an international career. One of my interviewers, who relocated several times after his MBA, shared that his first step in each new city was reaching out to former classmates. 

Having a network of former classmates and alumni in nearly every major city is a valuable asset.

Since I want to use the MBA to explore different career paths, the diversity of professional backgrounds in my class is immensely valuable. In class, I am sitting between a Japanese banker and an Indian aerospace engineer who helped complete India’s first successful moon landing mission. 

With such a diverse group of classmates, and an alumni network spanning virtually every industry and country, I am learning something new every day. 

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

As an EU citizen, I found the process of moving to France relatively straightforward. The only task I tackled immediately after my acceptance was finding accommodation. I decided to stay at Victoire, one of the shared houses, for the first few months. 

The great thing about a shared house is that you immediately get to know your classmates and even some of the MIMs. However, many people choose to rent their own apartments, which might be a better option if you need a quiet space to retreat. Whether you live in your own apartment or in a shared house, Fontainebleau is the perfect place for an MBA. Since no one had an established network before moving here, everyone was really excited to meet people.

Could you share a little about your application process and securing financing?

I took the GMAT several years before applying to INSEAD, back when I was considering a master’s in management. I spent most of my time on the essays. I asked close friends to review my essays because they knew me well and could help ensure my writing felt authentic. Ultimately, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship sponsored by an INSEAD MBA alumnus and his wife.

You are starting your INSEAD MBA in France. Are you planning any campus exchanges?

Our exchange selection process will start in a few weeks, so I haven’t decided about campus exchanges. We are the first cohort since COVID that has the option to spend two months on INSEAD’s Abu Dhabi campus. I am particularly interested in the exchange programmes with Wharton and Kellogg because I want to experience life at a US business school.

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

Before coming here, many alumni told me that the INSEAD MBA was the best year of their lives. When I asked them why, most of them could not quite explain it. 

What stood out to me most was how quickly the group, made up of people from all over the world, became a real community. Even before the programme started, more than 100 of us went on a trip to Croatia. By the second week on campus, I was helping a friend organise her birthday, and it was difficult to define the invite list because connections formed so quickly. 

Last weekend, I realised that I had not even thought about watching a movie or TV show since arriving. Time is passing incredibly quickly when you are having fun!

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?

I decided to join a few professional clubs and the INSEAD Student Impact Fund (ISIF). The ISIF partners with Loyal VC, an early-stage venture capital firm based in Canada. Working on real investment opportunities with experienced VCs is an amazing learning opportunity. 

One of my non-academic goals this year is improving my tennis skills. The tennis club is just across the street from INSEAD, and playing tennis between classes has been a great way to get to connect with my classmates. 

I also enjoy running and will participate in the 20km race in Paris with some classmates. Training in the beautiful chateau gardens makes it even more enjoyable.

Any parting words of wisdom, and are you willing to be contacted for more information by prospective students?

My advice to prospective students is to let go of your FOMO! No matter how many career events, weekend trips and sports activities you join, you will always feel like you are missing out on something. 

The sooner you figure out what you want to gain from the MBA, the easier it will be to prioritise your time and make the most of your experience.

I would be happy to speak with prospective students. Just reach out via LinkedIn!