Mark Kiel

Why the INSEAD MBA?

In my previous business degree, I acquired the basic tool set required in the consulting industry. However, I felt that an MBA would add highly valuable management expertise and skills to move ahead and eventually transition into a leadership position. Additionally, I enjoyed working in international settings and multi-cultural environments.

The INSEAD MBA was a perfect match for me, combining a first-class management education with a unique class composition of over 70 nationalities. The flexible choice of campus locations was another key factor in decision for the INSEAD MBA.

Do you intend to remain in the same industry or looking to do a career switch?

I thoroughly enjoy working in the consulting industry and the MBA gives me the required skills and experiences to further grow in this sector. Nevertheless, it is worth highlighting that INSEAD offers a wide range of career planning and advisory services. These help every student to identify their own goals and develop a structured plan on how to get there, no matter if students would like to continue in their previous industry or would like to switch to a new industry, function or geography.

Is INSEAD what you expected?

Every new student has high expectations when joining INSEAD and I was no different. I can honestly say that INSEAD has exceeded all of those expectations and more importantly has offered many opportunities outside of what I originally expected. It is the combination of highly motivated and engaging professors, a great student body, a very supporting administration and a fun atmosphere that makes INSEAD so special.

What are your thoughts on the curriculum, faculty and class experiences?

All these three elements are truly excellent and contribute to the overall INSEAD experience. The curriculum balances core courses, which teach fundamental business skills, with a wide variety of electives where everyone can follow their interests. The faculty is highly motivated and professors really make classes come alive, actively integrating students and their backgrounds into their teaching.

The experience also does not end after each session, with professors offering lunch or dinner opportunities to share thoughts, knowledge and interests outside the class room.

How does the MBA programme aid you in your career moving forward?

The INSEAD MBA offers you two great benefits for moving your career forward: it teaches you the business and management skills you need to become a future business leader and it opens up a whole world of career opportunities where you can successfully apply these skills. No matter what your background is, INSEAD will equip you with the right profile to drive your career forward.

What is the most important lesson/biggest takeaway you have gotten at INSEAD?

While business, management and leadership are important topics of the programme, my biggest lesson is that in the end it is all about the people around you. Spending 10 months with fascinating and inspiring students from diverse backgrounds around the globe is a once in a lifetime experience that has fundamentally shaped my perspectives, not only on business but on society overall.