Victor Lim

You were in the legal industry before INSEAD. So what made you decide to do an MBA? 

I was practising as a commercial disputes lawyer. While I enjoyed certain aspects of it, I really wanted to do something that would allow me to have an impact on a larger scale. To do that, I needed business knowledge and an MBA was the obvious choice.

Why the INSEAD MBA?

INSEAD was particularly compelling because it is a one-year programme and it would allow me to save a year compared to other top MBA programmes. I also found the option to move between Singapore and France very attractive.

Please share with us your INSEAD experience thus far.

I was told that the programme would be intense but incredibly fun, and it has proven to be true so far. There is a seemingly endless amount of work to be done and events to go for, but somehow everyone just manages to make things work.

Can you describe what is the INSEAD diversity all about?

People from different backgrounds bringing their cultures and experiences together to learn from one another. I am consistently learning new amazing things about my classmates and it is a fantastic experience to be surrounded by so many accomplished people.What has also struck me so far is that amidst all the diversity, there is also much similarity and it is always easy to have conversations with different people.

What is your class experience like?

Class has been a great learning experience. Each of the professors has a different style and that certainly keeps things interesting. I also find the class discussions a great source of learning, as my classmates frequently think in a different way from me and these discussions allow me to approach the same issue from a new point of view. I also have lots of fun in class, being surrounded by my groupmates and we do joke around during class which makes things really enjoyable.

What are your immediate plans after the MBA?

I plan to do a career switch, but right now am not entirely clear on what I want to do yet. Besides relying on career services, the diversity we have in the class allows me to speak to people from different industries to find out more about their experiences.

Could you share your Personal Leadership Development Programme (PLDP) experience?

The PLDP has been an eye-opener. I never used to have much confidence in these coaching programmes, but I am surprised by how much I have benefitted from the PLDP. I have learned a lot about myself and about the dynamics of my group from the programme.

Where do you see yourself 10 years down the road?

I hope to see myself in a position where I am making a positive contribution to society, especially to the underprivileged members of society.

What is one important takeaway you have gotten from your INSEAD experience so far?

With the amount of activity going on, it is impossible to be a part of everything. For me, I have realised the importance of prioritizing certain things and letting go of others that are not as important.

Any advice to potential prospects who are interested in taking the INSEAD MBA?

The admissions process takes quite a long time, so I would definitely suggest starting early, especially when trying to get recommendations from a busy supervisor.