Marvin Wenzel, IESE MBA Class of 2022
Age: 26
Hometown: Ennepetal, Germany (nearby Cologne)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Bachelor in Business Information Systems at DHBW Stuttgart
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): ~4 years, Management Consulting
Why business school? Why now?
In the last three years at McKinsey, I gained a lot of experience in Digital and Analytics related engagements across a broad range of industries. Recently I transitioned to the role of a Junior Engagement Manager but (having a strong tech background) I wanted to take the opportunity to broaden my general management skillset before fully switching to the Engagement Manager role.
On top of this, I want to expand my network with passionate professionals who want to have a positive and lasting impact on the world. I already had the chance to work with government-related organizations throughout my career, but I want to further dedicate my career to social impact.
Why IESE? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Because of the culture and the people at IESE. IESE’s mission focuses on developing leaders that strive to have a deep, positive, and lasting impact on the world. The magnitude of this statement became quite clear at the Open Day and Assessment Day in Barcelona. Within these two days, I already made strong connections with fellow applicants that had impressive stories to tell. I immediately knew that I want to get my MBA at a school, that attracts these kind of individuals. I even decided not to apply anywhere else. (And no – IESE did not make me say this)
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
My structured problem-solving capabilities combined with my tech background.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
In my first year at McKinsey, I spend the majority of my leisure time in my garage learning how to fix motorcycle engines.
Post-MBA career interests?
Most probably going back into management consulting for a few years. But in the long run I could also see myself working for an NGO or founding my own business which would be somewhat related to motorcycles.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Take the time upfront to honestly think about who you want to become as a person and as a leader. It helped me a lot in both figuring out which program suits me the best and writing strong application essays.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
However, next time I would start preparing for the GMAT upfront. I underestimated the effort required and thought a few weekends would do the job. In the end, I managed to get a decent score on my first try, but it was very stressful to study in a short timeframe while working full time in consulting.
What is your initial impression of IESE’s students/culture/community?
I really like the vibe and culture at IESE. Every student is truly supportive and committed to helping each other out. It is clear, that IESE does a great job of selecting individuals that align with its mission. The kind of companionship lived at IESE will help all of us to get further and become better persons.
One thing you have learned about IESE that has surprised you?
We have amazing professors – they are better than I expected. I hope that we were not just lucky in our first term, but that my future professors will be as good.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Further Covid restrictions. Luckily, we are still doing in-person classes while most other universities in Barcelona already switched to online classes. So far only our Spanish lessons are limited due to Covid. I hope that we keep having in-person classes and IESE will offer more frequent Business Spanish lessons very soon.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Getting involved in activities of the Responsible Business Club and exploring Northern Spain by motorbike.
