Everyone here is open, curious, and willing to share and learn from each other.
Nicolo Caporaso
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Nicolo, from Italy. I’ve just completed my Master’s degree in Corporate Finance and Accounting. I originally planned to attend the INSEAD Summer School last year, but I had some exams to finish at university. This summer felt like the perfect time, now that I’ve completed my studies. I was looking forward to gaining insights, making valuable connections, and meeting people from different backgrounds.
Where did you study?
I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. My Bachelor’s was in Business Administration, and my Master’s focused on Accounting and Corporate Finance.
Have you been able to apply your previous experience during the programme?
Yes, especially in the case study work we’ve done this week. For example, during the New Venture AI simulation, I was able to apply things I’d learnt both in my studies and during internships. At the same time, I’ve really appreciated hearing from participants with technical or engineering knowledge. Their input adds a lot of depth to the group work.
Why did you choose INSEAD Summer School?
A few years ago, my mother did an executive programme at INSEAD. She strongly recommended the Summer Cchool to me and my younger brother, who’s planning to attend next year. I didn’t really consider any other programme. I knew I wanted to do this, either during my final year or right after graduating. Now that I’ve experienced it, I can say without hesitation that I made the right choice.
I believe I am one of the more senior participants, and I’ve told many of the younger students to really appreciate this experience. If I’d had something like this at 18, it might have shaped my university years and career direction in a completely different way.
Even for me now, this has been incredibly valuable. It’s been especially meaningful to come here after finishing my business studies. Talking to participants from engineering, IT, and other fields has been eye-opening. Some are six years younger than me, but I’ve learnt a lot from their perspectives.
How are you finding the experience in Fontainebleau?
The campus is beautiful. INSEAD’s setting, surrounded by nature, is really special. Everything is close together, which creates a sense of community. You constantly run into people and can strike up a conversation anywhere. I’ve walked into the centre of Fontainebleau a few times. It’s a lovely town. And the Château adds something unique to the whole experience. It’s a great balance of academic focus and opportunities to relax and explore.
Have you made strong friendships here?
Yes, many. In fact, I sometimes worry I’ll confuse names because I’ve met so many great people. At first, I wondered whether being one of the more senior participants would make it harder to connect, but it hasn’t been an issue at all.
Everyone here is open, curious, and willing to share and learn from each other.I’ve formed friendships that I believe will last a lifetime, regardless of age, background or culture.
What advice would you give to someone considering the summer school?
Don’t worry about coming alone or from far away. You’ll definitely find someone you connect with, even if they have a completely different background. Try to talk to new people every day at lunch, dinner, or between sessions. You’ll naturally find your group of close friends, but it’s also important to branch out. Then, after dinner, you can always go back to your circle and relax with a drink. It’s a fantastic way to learn, grow, and make the most of the experience.
