Pablo Sobrino

Tell us a bit about yourself—how did you get to where you are today? Any highlights, personal or professional?

My name is Pablo Sobrino. I’m 18 years old and currently pursuing a dual degree in Business Analytics and International Relations in Madrid, Spain, where I’ve lived all my life. 

However, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to travel around the world and explore many different countries. Through these experiences, I’ve discovered that one of my greatest passions is travelling and studying in other countries. I meet new people, discover new cultures and continue to grow professionally, as learning can vary from country to country.

Any fun or quirky facts about you?

My fun fact is that it is indeed a strange fact because I’m not afraid of heights, but I am terrified of highs! Looking down from a tall building? No problem. Looking up at one? Instant panic attack! New York is a tough one for me, even though I have good friends there.  

What motivated you to choose the INSEAD Summer School, and how do you think it will align with your future goals, even at this early stage?

I’ve always valued travelling, exploring new cultures, and meeting new people. 

My primary motivation for choosing the INSEAD Summer School was to enhance my academic profile, and I couldn’t have chosen a better place than one of Europe’s most prestigious busienss schools. 

While I focused on academic development, this experience exceeded my expectations by significantly enriching me personally. The incredible people I met have become lifelong friends, making this journey truly transformative on both academic and personal levels.

How was your experience at ISS? What did a typical day look like?

My experience at ISS was truly one of the best of my life, largely because of the incredible people I met. 

Each day on campus was filled with sports, quality time with classmates, and, of course, insightful lessons. 

The mornings began with a fantastic breakfast at the Hermitage Hotel, followed by classes led by different professors, covering topics such as decision-making, data analysis, leadership, business management, and more. 

After lunch on campus and some free time spent chatting, getting to know one another, or playing games, we finished our classes. The afternoons were the time to relax in the campus green areas, hit the gym, go for a run or enjoy sports like squash, tennis, football, basketball and many more. The day always ended with dinner at a beautiful INSEAD building next to campus.

While this was a typical day, we also had many special ones. For instance, our first day was filled with activities at the Domaine de Courances. We also enjoyed a free day, which many of us used to explore Paris and another memorable day at the Château de Fontainebleau, which was also a sports day.

Any memorable moments you’ll carry with you?

Throughout the course, I had loads of memorable moments, but if I had to choose, I would say the best one was the “Your First Hundred Days” case imparted by Adrian Johnson. Without revealing too much, I will say it was the activity that helped me the most to develop useful skills such as leadership and management, while also being the moment when I best connected with the rest of the students.

What were your impressions of campus life, your classmates, and the professors? How did you find living in Fontainebleau for two weeks?

I was truly impressed by the Fontainebleau campus and everything it offered. Life there is simply amazing. INSEAD boasts one of the best campuses I’ve ever seen, with modern classrooms, abundant green spaces, and different sports facilities like a squash court, gym, table tennis, volleyball and more. 

The campus also includes dedicated study and workspaces for students, along with the Hermitage Hotel, which, being right on campus, made life so much more convenient. 

As for the professors, each one was an expert in their field, bringing not just theoretical knowledge but also real-world experience to the classroom. 

They consistently encouraged us to think critically and engage with the material. And as for my classmates, the fact that there were plenty of tears on the last day says it all.

Could you share a little about your application process and getting to Fontainebleau?

The application process was very well explained, consisting of different types of questions about your professional and personal life. I see it as an opportunity to show your character and make a good impression.

Any advice or words of wisdom for someone thinking about joining ISS?

Try to get the most out of this unique experience. I did, and it changed my life. Be yourself and try to grow personally and professionally. Believe me when I tell you that time is going to fly, and the two weeks are going to feel like a couple of days.

Would you be open to future students reaching out to you for more info?

Of course! I am open to anyone who has any questions regarding the course, and I will be happy to help.