The international exposure, with opportunities to study in France and Singapore, was especially appealing as it allowed me to experience different markets and cultures.
Michail Athanasiadis
Could you tell us a little about yourself, personally and professionally, and how you have gotten to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Athens, Greece, where I spent my childhood playing tennis, learning the guitar, and travelling with my family. These early experiences sparked my curiosity about the world. I later pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering with Business Finance in London, which allowed me to broaden my horizons and build friendships with people from all over the world. Seeking to explore different industries and geographies,
I completed internships in real estate, healthcare, and maritime shipping in the USA, Greece, and the UK. To continue this international exposure and further expand my skill set, I chose INSEAD for my master's degree.
Any fun or quirky facts about yourself you'd like to share?
A few fun or quirky facts about me: I own a dinosaur egg, I've never had coffee in my life, and I almost got kidnapped as a kid!
Could you tell us what led you to pursue an INSEAD Master in Management programme?
I chose to pursue the INSEAD Master in Management programme because of my deep passion for business, particularly entrepreneurship and investment decisions. I wanted to build a strong network and lifelong friendships with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. The international exposure, with opportunities to study in France and Singapore, was especially appealing as it allowed me to experience different markets and cultures. Additionally, INSEAD's global prestige makes it an ideal choice, as it will open doors and make it easier to find the right job in the future.
And why did you choose INSEAD? Were there any other business schools you considered?
I was torn between INSEAD and London Business School (LBS) when deciding on my master's programme.
Ultimately, I chose INSEAD because of the global exposure it provides.
Having already lived in London, I was ready for a change and excited about the diverse experiences INSEAD offers. Additionally, I spoke to several alumni from INSEAD's Master in Management programme, and they all shared how it was the best year of their lives, expressing a strong sense of nostalgia for their time at the school.
How has your experience on the programme been so far? Can you describe your interactions with the professors and your fellow classmates and how life has been treating you on the Fontainebleau campus?
My experience in the MIM has truly surpassed my expectations.
The professors have been exceptionally engaging, always ready to answer questions and explain concepts in greater depth. Life on the Fontainebleau campus is tranquil yet vibrant; there's always something happening, whether it's movie nights, parties, or cultural events both within and outside INSEAD.
So what does a typical day look like for you currently?
A typical day for me starts with waking up and heading to university, whether I have classes scheduled or not. I often meet with my team to collaborate on group projects or work individually on assignments. I attend lectures and make it a point to have lunch with friends daily while managing job applications. I also try to hit the campus gym a few times a week and enjoy going out for dinner or drinks a few times.
During weekends, when there are no looming deadlines, I love visiting the Fontainebleau market to explore different cuisines or engaging in fun activities like karting or watching horse races.
Before you know it, you'll be making your way to Singapore. Is this something you will be looking forward to?
I'm definitely looking forward to making my way to Singapore! The city offers a completely different mentality and climate, with its modern skyline and vibrant blend of cultures. As a global business hub, it's an exciting place to immerse myself in. We're already planning weekend trips to Bali, the Philippines, Vietnam, and China, which is thrilling! It seems that this kind of exploration has been a popular practice among past cohorts, and I can't wait to experience it
Aside from your academic pursuits, what extracurricular interests or activities are you exploring at INSEAD, and how do you see them enhancing your overall MIM experience?
Aside from my academic pursuits, I'm involved in the Entrepreneurship Club at INSEAD, where I participate in pitch and pizza nights. These events are a great way to listen to other people's business ideas, and I also enjoy playing tennis with my classmates, which is a way to bond with people you haven't had the chance to meet in class.
Recently, I attended a Belgian beer night that allowed me to explore Belgian culture. I participated in a Mid-Autumn Festival celebration, a Chinese tradition that symbolises thanksgiving and unity. These extracurricular activities greatly enrich my Master in Management experience. I believe that being a MIM student should involve life outside the classroom as much as academics. It's just as important to be engaged and take initiative as it is to focus on academic pursuits.
Any parting words of wisdom, admissions or application tips you're keen on sharing?
For anyone considering applying, I recommend talking to previous MIM students to gain valuable insights. In your essays, it's crucial to be truthful to yourself and highlight what makes you unique—share your passions, initiatives from high school, and special skills.
During the interview, beyond showing your interest in INSEAD, be specific about which modules, electives, initiatives, or clubs align with your career goals post-graduation and how you will leverage those. In addition, it is important to demonstrate how you are planning on giving back to INSEAD, in terms of starting an initiative, mentoring fellow students in areas where you are experienced, and engaging as an alumnus for life.
