Nada El Bouazzati, ESCP Business School MBA Class of 2024
Age: 32
Hometown: Paris
Undergraduate Institution and Major: EMSI, Paris-Saclay University. Engineering degree in telecommunication
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Telecom Engineer, Davidson/Nokia/Ericsson, 7 years
ESCP Campuses: Paris, Online
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I made the decision to attend business school at this juncture in my career as a telecommunications engineer with seven years of experience in multinational workplaces. Recognizing the need to elevate my professional trajectory and broaden my skill set, I saw business school as the ideal platform to develop a robust business acumen.
In today’s dynamic and competitive business landscape, the ability to understand and navigate complex business environments is crucial. My technical background has provided a strong foundation, and now, with several years of practical experience, I am eager to augment my expertise with a comprehensive understanding of business strategies, leadership, management etc.
Attending business school now aligns with my career aspirations and represents a strategic move to enhance my qualifications. I believe this decision will not only open doors to new opportunities but also equip me with the tools and knowledge needed to contribute effectively in leadership roles. It’s a pivotal step toward achieving my professional goals and making a meaningful impact in my chosen field.
Why did you choose ESCP Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose ESCP Business School due to its prestigious reputation in Europe and the consistently high rankings of its programs. The alignment of the school’s values with mine played a significant role in my decision, as ESCP places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, diversity, entrepreneurship, and a global perspective. This resonates with my personal values of pursuing a well-rounded education in an inclusive and innovative environment. Moreover, ESCP’s commitment to flexibility in its MBA program was a pivotal factor, offering me the adaptability I sought in my educational journey.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
Personally, I can categorize my added value and contribution to the class in three aspects:
First, living in two countries and working in multinational workplaces have exposed me to diverse cultures, values, and challenges. This was key to my personal growth. And it enabled me to introduce alternative perspectives to the class.
Second, throughout my career, I was involved in many advanced technology projects, and I cultivated a deep passion and a keen interest in technology. Bringing this experience into the class stimulates conversation, broadens perspective, and provides a more comprehensive education, which will lead other students and me to enhance our overall learning experience reciprocally.
Third, the willingness to learn, perseverance, and integrity are my backbones as a person. seeking out new experiences, skills, and information that improve my abilities professionally and especially personally.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m practically BFFs with wanderlust—always chasing new horizons, flavors, and the perfect picture to immortalize moments. When I’m not globe-trotting, I rediscover my inner child by playing with my little one. And let’s be real, sunshine isn’t just rays; it’s my secret sauce for a power-up! 😊
Post-MBA career interests:
Consulting, business development, product management
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
-What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
In the application process, it is essential to embrace and showcase your true self. Each candidate has a unique story to tell, shaped by distinct experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. By authentically presenting who you are, you not only make your application stand out but also provide the admissions committee with a genuine glimpse into your character.
Highlighting your uniqueness goes beyond academic achievements; it delves into your personal journey, values, and the qualities that make you a valuable addition to the academic community. Admissions committees often appreciate authenticity, and being true to yourself ensures that your application reflects an honest representation of your capabilities and potential contributions.
So, my advice to prospective applicants is simple yet powerful: “Be yourself; you are unique, and so is your story and your application.” This approach not only strengthens your candidacy but also sets the foundation for a meaningful and fulfilling educational journey.
-What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If there was one part I wish I could have skipped, it would be the GMAT preparation. However, going through it turned out to be extremely beneficial. It gave me a chance to really brush up on my quantitative skills, which are incredibly important for the MBA program—especially in subjects like finance, statistics, and accounting.
Studying for the GMAT took a lot of time and hard work, but the upside was that it forced me to revisit and strengthen my math and analytical abilities. Even though it was challenging, the GMAT preparation ended up being a helpful review that significantly improved my confidence and competence in areas crucial for my MBA studies.
What is your initial impression of the ESCP students/culture/community?
At ESCP, my first impressions are filled with positivity. The people here are not just open-minded; they’re genuinely excited about hearing different perspectives and exploring new ideas. It creates this lively and engaging atmosphere where creativity is encouraged, and everyone is eager to learn from one another.
The diversity at ESCP is incredible. I’m surrounded by individuals from various backgrounds, both culturally and professionally. It adds this wonderful richness to our conversations and broadens our understanding of the world. Plus, it’s preparing us for the global business scene, which is pretty cool.
What really stands out to me is the sense of community. It’s more than just classmates; it feels like a supportive family. We collaborate on projects, study together, and there’s this shared commitment to seeing each other succeed. It’s a great feeling to know you’re not on this journey alone.
And then there’s the networking culture. ESCP actively encourages us to connect with alumni and professionals in our field. It’s not just about what you know; it’s about who you know. This focus on building a strong professional network is a game-changer for our future careers.
In a nutshell, ESCP is not just a place to learn; it’s a community that nurtures growth, both personally and professionally. I feel like I’m not just getting an education; I’m becoming a part of something special.
What is one thing you have learned about ESCP that has surprised you?
One aspect of ESCP that has pleasantly surprised me is the extent of its supportive and collaborative network. The school has fostered a community that spans across the globe, and this global reach is truly remarkable. The network not only connects individuals within the ESCP community but also provides a platform for collaboration and support worldwide. This feature is particularly amazing because it means that as a part of ESCP, I have access to a vast and diverse network of individuals who are willing to help and collaborate, regardless of geographical boundaries. This international connectivity enhances the overall educational experience and presents unique opportunities for networking and learning from a global perspective.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
In the first period, my primary source of anxiety revolved around striking a balance between my family responsibilities and the demanding academic schedule. The program is exceptionally intense, with some days extending from 9 AM to 9 PM at school. Navigating through a whirlwind of courses, meeting deliverable deadlines, attending networking events, and still finding time for my family proved to be quite challenging initially.
The anxiety stemmed from the sheer intensity of the schedule and the need to fulfill both academic and familial commitments. However, as time progressed, I found a rhythm and, with the unwavering support of my family, managed to organize my priorities effectively. This support played a crucial role in alleviating my initial concerns, and as a result, everything started falling into place, contributing to a smoother and more manageable experience.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
One aspect that fills me with excitement for my first year is the prospect of meeting new people from diverse cultures. The variety of perspectives that come with interacting with individuals from different cultural backgrounds are truly captivating. I look forward to the exchange of ideas, the broadening of my worldview, and the opportunity to build meaningful connections with a diverse group of peers. This cultural diversity not only enhances the social aspect of my experience but also contributes to a more dynamic and enriching academic environment.
