Joanna Boustani, INSEAD MBA Class of 2018D
Age: 28
Hometown: Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Lebanese American University, industrial engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Before joining INSEAD, I was based in Dubai working for Nestle Middle East. I joined Nestle Middle East as a supply chain management associate and, after “graduating” from the program, I joined the strategic procurement team.
Why business school? Why now? As I look for a career switch, I believe that I am at point where I require the academic rigor, leadership, and networking skills I will gain in business school to achieve my long-term goals. I truly believe INSEAD’s MBA program will strengthen my skills in a unique manner.
Why INSEAD? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend? Besides the fact that INSEAD is continuously ranked as a top business school, INSEAD is the only school I applied because it provides a unique set of opportunities for the students:
- INSEAD’s one-year program allows me to fast-track the realization of my career objectives.
- INSEAD provides the opportunity to live in two continents.
- INSEAD allows me to be part strong and international alumni association.
- INSEAD offers a wide range of elective courses that provides the opportunity of customizing the program based on my individual needs.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2018D? I believe that my professional experience pre-INSEAD is quite unique and different. Having worked in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and focused on supply chain management, I am hoping to share my experiences and bring to the table a different perspective that drives discussions and learnings.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application? Both my husband and I are currently MBA candidates, Class of 2018D.
Post-MBA career interests? Possibly management consulting, but I am still an “explorer” at this point.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
—One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process? Spend plenty of time reflecting and writing your application.
—One thing you would change or do differently? If possible, do not wait until last round to apply so you have higher chances of benefitting from a scholarship.
—Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? The GMAT! However, the motivation and desire to be part of the program were larger than any obstacle.
Greatest highlight so far at INSEAD? The first period at INSEAD was full of highlights and memorable experiences, but I would say the Splash project ranks first. My classmates and I had the chance to build an outdoor patio for the “Association for Persons with Special Needs” in three days. As we uncovered the completed area, the reaction of the students was priceless! Having said this, being rained on the whole day only made the experience more challenging and fun!
One thing about INSEAD that you didn’t expect before arriving? I was amazed by the supportive and collaborative spirit among students. Each person is willing to go out of his/her way to help others and share experiences. It only makes me feel even more grateful to take part in this community.
Thing you were most anxious about at INSEAD? FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) makes me anxious. I want to be on top of academics and core courses, land an internship, and at the same time take part in all social events and activities. I am, however, learning that prioritization is crucial and that it is important to keep the end goal in mind.
Thing you are most excited about at INSEAD? I am very excited at the prospect of living and traveling around southeast Asia and Europe. Being based on the Singapore campus during the first period, I have already had the chance to travel to Vietnam, Bali, the Philippines, and Thailand, with more destinations to come. Each of these experiences only reinforces and deepens the relationships I have with my peers.
