Valeria Innocenti

Could you tell us a little about yourself, personally and professionally, and how you have got to where you are today?

I was born and raised in El Salvador, a small but vibrant country in Central America! After completing secondary school, I pursued my undergraduate degree in Milan, where I studied Economics and International Relations. Initially, I thought I wanted to pursue a career in law and spent a year working at a law firm. However, during that time, I realised my true passion lay in entrepreneurship and innovation. 

This led me to change paths and work for a start-up, an incredibly rewarding experience that shaped my current career aspirations (and also why I decided to go to business school)!  

Outside of work, I have a strong passion for learning languages (I’m currently working on my French) and staying active through sports and outdoor activities. I used to play football and run cross-country for many years! These interests have greatly influenced both my personal and professional growth, helping me build connections and develop skills that have brought me to where I am today.  

Any fun or quirky facts about yourself you’d like to share?

I’m a huge Pilates and Barre fan, and I’m currently studying to become a certified instructor!  

Could you tell us what led you to pursue an INSEAD Master in Management programme? And why did you choose INSEAD? Were there any other business schools you considered?  

My passion for entrepreneurship deeply influenced my decision to pursue the INSEAD Master in Management. I’ve always been driven by the desire to create and lead innovative ventures. I wanted a programme that could hone the entrepreneurial skills necessary to bring these ideas to life.

INSEAD’s curriculum, which emphasises leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability, is exactly what I need to develop the strategic thinking and decision-making abilities essential for any entrepreneur. 

Additionally, INSEAD’s global footprint and international perspective perfectly align with my goal of building a career transcending borders. I sought to learn not only from professors but also from peers who come from different industries and cultures, offering diverse viewpoints. 

This exposure is crucial in understanding how to navigate various markets and drive business growth internationally, a skill set essential for any successful entrepreneur. The combination of academic prestige, a global network, and a focus on practical entrepreneurial skills made INSEAD the ideal choice for my career aspirations.  

How has your experience on the programme been so far? Can you describe your interactions with the professors, your fellow classmates, and how life has been treating you on the Fontainebleau campus?

My experience on the INSEAD Master in Management programme so far has been nothing short of amazing. Every day, I have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, each with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. What has stood out the most is how welcoming and accommodating everyone has been. 

Whether it’s helping with course material, offering advice on navigating life in Fontainebleau, or simply bonding over shared experiences, my classmates have made the transition seamless. The diversity and collaborative spirit have made INSEAD a unique and enriching environment.  

The professors have also been incredibly supportive and approachable. Even though the courses are rigorous, the professors ensure they are available for any questions or concerns. They offer office hours and are genuinely invested in our learning, often going beyond lectures to provide real-world insights and personal guidance. 

Their dedication has made it easier to grasp complex concepts, and their encouragement has boosted my confidence in tackling difficult subjects. The academic rigour and their support have pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated.  

Life on the Fontainebleau campus has been wonderful. The campus is beautiful and very comfortable, with facilities that provide everything I need to focus on my studies. The nature around the campus is breathtaking and helps ease stress, making it the perfect environment to study and relax.  

So what does a typical day look like for you currently? 

A typical day for me starts with a quiet morning at home, where I enjoy a cup of coffee and mentally prepare for the day ahead. After that, I review and prepare pre-class notes and readings to ensure I’m ready for the day’s lectures. Lunchtime is always a highlight, as I get to catch up with my MIM classmates at the canteen – the variety of food is amazing, and it’s a great way to unwind between classes.  

Once classes are done, I head to the library, which has quickly become my favourite place to study on campus. The focused environment helps me stay productive and get a lot of my work done. To cap off the day, I hit the gym with other MIMs for a workout – it’s the perfect way to de-stress and recharge. In the evening, I often head into town for dinner with friends, which is always a great way to relax and connect after a busy day.  

Before you know it, you’ll be making your way to Singapore. Is this something you are looking forward to?

I’ve never been to Asia, so I’m excited to travel all around the region – especially planning a class trip to Bali with the rest of the MIMs.  

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’ve been involved in several extracurricular activities at INSEAD, including the Entrepreneurship Club, Women in Business Club, the Yearbook Committee, and the Robinhood Initiative. These activities have significantly enriched my MIM experience by helping me stay deeply connected with the INSEAD community. 

Through my participation, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate closely with others, honing my teamwork and leadership skills. These experiences have also allowed me to expand my network within my MIM cohort and with students from other programmes and professionals across various industries. Altogether, these extracurriculars provide a well-rounded balance to my academic learning while opening doors to personal growth and career development.  

Any parting words of wisdom, admissions or application tips you’re keen to share?

My main advice would be: don’t be scared, just do it! The application process may seem intimidating, but it’s all part of the journey, and you’ll learn a lot about yourself along the way. Enjoy every step of it!  

Also, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to INSEAD recruiters and alumni – they’re a great resource to ensure the programme aligns with your personal and professional goals. This will help you feel more confident in your decision and make the process much smoother.