I’d heard from past MIMs how much they valued the people and the diversity at the school, and I can say it definitely doesn’t disappoint.
Marylène De Man
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Marylène, I am Belgian and currently a MIM’27. I studied Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven throughout my bachelor’s and master’s. I did an Erasmus exchange in Switzerland, which made me realise I definitely wanted to study abroad again! Outside of academics, I played field hockey for 15 years, but sadly had to stop when coming here. I also enjoy tennis, running, and playing the piano.
Why did you choose the INSEAD MIM?
When you study chemical engineering, the usual route is to head into heavy industries like oil and gas or take on very technical roles. But that never really felt right for me. I’ve always been more interested in working with people than with machines, so I started looking for a programme that could boost my business knowledge and help me grow stronger people skills. I can still build on my engineering background, but in ways that excite me more — like cosmetics, healthcare, and luxury.
INSEAD especially appealed to me because of its condensed 10-month format and the opportunity to study across both Fontainebleau and Singapore.
What skills are you hoping to build?
The academics are strong, but for me, the focus is really on soft skills: negotiation, selling yourself, networking, and learning to collaborate in diverse teams. These are things you don’t get in engineering school.
How have the first weeks been? Any memorable moments?
The start was intense! In the beginning, I said yes to everything — every dinner, every sports activity — which was an amazing way to meet people, even if it left me a little exhausted at times. The LEAD seminar and the outdoor day in the forest really stood out for me. It was such a refreshing shift: we left the classroom setting behind, relaxed, and got to see more of everyone’s authentic side. Since then, I’ve found a nice balance between the social side and the academics.
What has group work been like?
I feel really fortunate with my home group. We’re six people — Belgian, French-German, Danish, Italian, Indian, and Korean — and somehow it just clicks. We quickly found our rhythm: dividing tasks fairly, rotating leadership, and still making time to enjoy each other’s company outside of assignments.
Have you joined any extracurricular activities?
Sports are still a big part of my life. I run regularly, often with the INSEAD Run Club on Sundays, and I’ve also joined the rugby team. On top of that, I play tennis with classmates whenever we can find the time.
On the club side, I’m especially drawn to the Retail, Consumer Goods & Luxury Club as well as the Healthcare Club. Both connect with areas I’m excited to explore further, since they tie in with new passions and directions I want to discover during my time at INSEAD.
What stands out to you about Fontainebleau?
I’ve actually come to love how small Fontainebleau is.
You step outside and almost always run into someone from INSEAD, which makes the community feel really close.
A Belgian friend visited recently and described the town as “cute,” but as a student here, it feels just right. Paris would have been overwhelming, whereas Fontainebleau keeps us connected and grounded. And when it comes to food, I’d recommend ADMA for dinner, Casa Azul if you’re in the mood for something different, and Luwei for a great brunch.
What are your career goals?
I’m particularly interested in the consumer goods and cosmetics sector, with companies such as L’Oréal or Estée Lauder. At the same time, I’m open to opportunities in tech and healthcare, as both areas excite me for their mix of innovation and impact. What matters is finding a role that combines my technical background with business in a people-focused environment.
How has the Career Development Centre supported you?
I meet my advisor regularly, even when I don’t have pressing questions. I really value her honesty and guidance. She encouraged me to do more coffee chats and really learn about companies beyond what you assume from the outside.
What advice would you give to future applicants?
Talk to people who have done the programme — I found them incredibly generous with advice, even strangers who took the time to write detailed messages. For the GMAT, don’t overthink it: prepare properly and you’ll be fine. And in interviews, be yourself. It’s more about showing who you are than listing technical skills.
