Nick Campbell

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m Nick Campbell, 21 years old, and from New Zealand. That surprises a lot of people since it’s quite literally on the other side of the world. It's a 24-hour flight to get here. I’m in my final year of a Bachelor’s degree in International Business and Management.

After this, I’ll be heading to Barcelona to finish my degree on exchange, then graduating at the end of the year.

What led you to the INSEAD Summer School?

My father came to INSEAD a few years ago. He didn’t do the MBA, but Heineken sent him here for an executive programme. He had such a great experience and, when he learned about the Summer School, he encouraged me to apply. I’m really glad I did.

What has it been like to study in such an international environment?

It’s been amazing. Last year was my first time visiting Europe, and being in this kind of environment has been eye-opening.

You’re surrounded by people from all over the world, each with their own stories, perspectives, and ways of thinking.

It’s not just about cultural differences, but about how much you learn from others. It really broadens your mindset and makes everything you learn more meaningful.

How has your experience at the Summer School been so far?

It’s been incredible. At first, I thought two weeks would feel intense, but it’s flown by. We’re just over halfway now, and I already feel like I’ve learnt more than I have in a typical term at university.

The quality of the teaching, the speakers’ stories, and the practical nature of the content have all been outstanding. I’m really grateful I chose to do this.  

Has there been a particular class, speaker, or topic that stood out?

Yes. Professor Subramanian Rangan’s session on societal progress really stood out. It’s not something I’d ever really thought about before, as I’ve always been focused on business specifically.

His perspective on the future of leadership and how an MBA should be a “Master of Better Alternatives” rather than just Business Administration was incredibly powerful. The whole day left a big impression on me.

Have you made many connections here?

Definitely. I’ve made friends from all over the world. It’s great to now have a contact list with people in so many different countries. Everyone is really friendly and supportive, which has made the experience even better.

Have there been any memorable social moments outside the classroom?

Yes, one highlight was a night out in Paris with a group from the Summer School. After an intense week of work, it was great to unwind, enjoy the city, and spend time together in a relaxed setting. It really felt like we’d built something special in just a short amount of time.

What do you think of the INSEAD campus?

The campus is beautiful. Definitely a step up from my university back home. It’s been a lovely place to study and stay, and even the hotel accommodation has been excellent.

How do you see what you’ve learnt here helping your future career?

It’s already had an impact. Just this week, we’re working on AI and venture creation, which are hugely relevant topics in today’s business world.

At university, you don’t usually get the chance to apply ideas so directly. Here, we’re learning things that we can implement straight away, which makes the whole experience incredibly valuable.

If you had the chance to do it again, would you?

Yes, 100 per cent. If I knew people from New Zealand—or anywhere else—I’d absolutely recommend it, just like my dad did with me.