Fernanda Corrêa Dalbem, INSEAD’s MBA Class of 2021
Age: 31
Hometown: Born in Porto Alegre, Brazil, but raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Law
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): I have worked for 7 years as a lawyer in Brazil, with a specialization in corporate law and capital markets. After being accepted to INSEAD, I did a pre-MBA internship at Rappi, a Latin-American unicorn. I worked in Rappi’s Pricing team, where I learned a great deal about product management and the fast-paced environment of tech companies.
Why business school? Why now?
After 7 years of practicing law, I decided to do an MBA to further develop my open-mindedness and expand my business knowledge. My ultimate goal is to understand how I can contribute more effectively to promote justice and create social impact.
Why INSEAD? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Besides being one of the top MBA programs in the world, INSEAD values diversity more than any other program available. INSEAD offers its students a truly global learning experience and network, with campuses across the world. And as I discovered during the COVID-19 crisis, INSEAD cares deeply about its students and always tries to ensure the best experience possible for them. I am very glad to be part of this community!
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
I believe my most valuable/differentiating contribution will be my legal background and sense of justice, combined with my creative and caring personality.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I tried to write a book when I was 11 years old. I still have the floppy disk that contains this masterpiece!
Post-MBA career interests?
I am especially interested in social innovation, but I am willing to explore all options available during the MBA.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would definitely do some coaching sessions again because it helped me develop the self-awareness necessary to decide when and where to apply for an MBA.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I wish I had not been afraid to do a career change earlier.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would not have skipped any of the parts of the application process. All the parts, including the most painful ones, help you grow and make it even more special when you arrive on campus.
What is your initial impression of INSEAD’s students/culture/community?
Even before arriving on campus, the INSEAD community was quick to accept me as one of their own! While still in Brazil, I was able to join the Green Impact alumni initiative as a volunteer and connect with several alumni. It is a very supportive and close-knitted community.
One thing you have learned about INSEAD that has surprised you?
The extent to which INSEAD values self-awareness and personal growth as a power tool for business.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am most anxious about having to choose between all the many opportunities, tools, and events offered by INSEAD during the MBA (FOMO feelings).
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am extremely excited to connect with my classmates in real life (we are still quarantining in Singapore) and learn more about their cultures and backgrounds.
