Shrirupa Bhattacharyya

How do you see INSEAD’s global perspectives enhancing the value of your business education over the next year?

One of the biggest things I gained at INSEAD was the chance to learn from a truly diverse group of classmates. It helped me understand different cultural nuances and adjust how I communicate across regions.  

This has been incredibly useful in my new role at Amazon in Europe. I can now connect more easily with stakeholders from different backgrounds and build strong relationships. I think that personal bonds matter just as much as professional expertise for long-term success.

Why did you choose a one-year programme over a two-year programme, and how do you see an INSEAD MBA giving you an advantage?

A one-year programme made more financial sense for me, especially since I had a student loan. INSEAD offers the intensity and depth of a two-year programme but in a much more efficient format. I could return to work sooner with the same level of learning, global exposure and the added benefit of the INSEAD brand, which has already opened many doors for me.

Aside from your classmates, what was another key part of INSEAD’s MBA that convinced you to join?

The strength of the INSEAD brand played a huge role in my decision. It really adds weight to your profile. The three-campus structure was also very important for me. 

I had the chance to experience Singapore, the Middle East and Europe, which helped me figure out where I wanted to live and work.

The alumni network was another big factor. Even in a small country like Luxembourg, I found an active and very welcoming alumni community that meets regularly. Everyone I met was humble, approachable and genuinely invested in helping one another. It made me realise how strong and supportive the INSEAD network truly is.

What course, club or activity excited you the most?

I really enjoyed the Energy Finance course with Professor Pierre Hillion. With my background in Oil and Gas, I was already interested in energy investing. Professor Hillion made the subject very engaging and also shared some unforgettable examples of what not to do when making investment decisions.

I also loved the OrigINSEAD initiative. Students came together to share personal stories, challenges and vulnerabilities. It created a sense of trust and reminded all of us that it is okay to struggle sometimes and that INSEAD is a safe and supportive community.

Your first impression of INSEAD students and alumni?

They are incredibly polite, humble and approachable. Every single one of them.

Your biggest career accomplishment so far?

I feel proud of being able to successfully shift my career path multiple times. I started as an R&D engineer in pharmaceuticals then moved to B2B sales in petrochemicals and after INSEAD I joined Amazon as a Senior Programme Manager. Each role has taught me something new and made me confident that I can adapt quickly and excel in different environments.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I am currently working as a Senior Programme Manager at Amazon where I am leading a couple of AI initiatives. Over the next few years, I want to deepen my expertise in technology and focus on how AI can create meaningful value for businesses.

Your advice for future INSEAD applicants?

Think about what unique value you bring and shape your stories around that. Being genuine and self-aware makes a big difference.

What guided your planning and prioritisation across the three campuses?

My main goal was to understand where I wanted to live and work after graduation. Since the J batch graduates in Fontainebleau, ending my journey in Europe felt natural. That is why I started in Singapore and then joined the Middle East exchange in P3.

This sequence helped me experience all three regions and compare their cultures, opportunities and lifestyle fit before deciding on Europe.

How did you balance personal preferences with career goals?

Exploring all three regions helped me realise that Europe would be my first choice. However, this clarity did not come on the first day. It only happened when I arrived in Europe in March. I planned based on what I knew at the start and adjusted my plan accordingly as I learnt more. 

Of course, timing and luck matter too, especially in a challenging job market, so perseverance is really important.

What unique insights did each campus give you about business culture and opportunities?

Singapore offers strong opportunities in consulting and tech start-ups, but getting a work permit can be quite difficult.
The Middle East has plenty of roles in finance, VC and consulting. Being physically present helps a lot because networking is very relationship-driven.

Europe and the UK felt the most diverse in terms of career paths. There are roles in VC, consulting, tech, fashion and various other industries. I found the widest range of opportunities here.

Were there any trade-offs in electives, networking or campus points and how did you handle them?

Yes, there was one. P5 in Fontainebleau is always in high demand for J batches, and I had bid a very small number of points. I stayed on the waitlist almost until the end of P4, but luckily, I got in. It worked out in the end, but it required some patience.

Advice for someone who wants to follow a similar multi-campus path

1. Plan your campus choices early, even before you start at INSEAD. Starting in Singapore gave me a perfect structure to explore all three regions.
2. Make the most of your time in each location, as you will be spending less time in all the campuses. Scheduling coffee chats before you even arrive saves time and helps you start networking immediately.