Anne-Charlotte Bøgh-Sørensen, IMD’s MBA Class of 2025
Age: 28
Hometown: Odense, Denmark
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Copenhagen Business School (CBS), BSc in International Business and Politics
Pre-MBA Work Experience: After graduating from CBS, I moved to London with no clear plan other than a three-month internship at Amazon. I ended up loving the vibe of the city and the culture at Amazon. Four years flew by as I completed their E-commerce graduate program and was promoted to a senior strategy consultant role.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Growing up with two entrepreneurial parents, the value of continuous education and lifelong learning was something I absorbed early on. They always encouraged me to stay curious and keep expanding my knowledge, and that mindset has been a guiding principle throughout my life.
After spending four exciting years in the fast-paced world of e-commerce at Amazon, I realized that I was ready for a new challenge—one that would push me out of my comfort zone and provide fresh perspectives. I wanted to take the time to step back, reflect, and focus on both personal and professional growth. An MBA at a top business school felt like the perfect place to do that, offering an environment where I could build new skills, broaden my horizons, and prepare myself for the next chapter in my career.
Why did you choose IMD Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
IMD truly stood out to me as the perfect choice. Its small, diverse cohort, along with a strong focus on personal development and leadership, really resonated with what I was looking for. I wanted more than just a year of academic learning—I was seeking an experience that would help me grow as a leader and enhance my interpersonal skills. IMD offered all of that, and more.
Beyond the traditional curriculum, I was drawn to the emphasis on those often overlooked but crucial skills like negotiation, executive presence, presentation skills, and mindfulness. These are the kinds of abilities that don’t always get the spotlight but are so important in shaping a successful career. Now that I’ve experienced it firsthand, I can confidently say that IMD has delivered the full package. And on top of that, I’ve gained some incredibly valuable, and hopefully lifelong, friendships along the way.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I believe my most valuable and differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025 is the unique perspective I bring from my background in e-commerce and my experience working at Amazon. Having spent several years in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment, I’ve developed a strong ability to adapt quickly, think strategically, and drive results. Additionally, growing up with entrepreneurial parents has instilled in me a deep appreciation for continuous learning and a passion for problem-solving.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
During the summer, I’m completely obsessed with sailing around on those small pedal boats with slides on them. There’s something about the combination of being out on the water, soaking up the sun, and just having a blast with friends that I can’t get enough of.
Post-MBA career interests:
Healthcare – I want to leverage my MBA to pivot into the healthcare sector.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Since I was fortunate enough to receive the Co-Ro scholarship, my application process was a bit different and challenging at times. However, the continuous and responsive support from the IMD administrative team made a huge difference. Their guidance and assistance were invaluable, and I would take advantage of that support all over again.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Start early! I’ve learned the hard way that leaving things to the last minute only adds unnecessary stress. Getting a head start would have made the whole process smoother and more manageable.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If there’s one part of the process I would have skipped if I could, it would be the GMAT. Balancing the demands of the test with my personal life and career was incredibly challenging. I had to be very strict with my time, prioritizing study sessions over social gatherings, and really focusing on staying disciplined. What got me through it was making the most of online resources and taking numerous practice tests. Each one helped me identify and improve on my weaker areas, and bit by bit, I saw myself getting better.
What is your initial impression of the IMD MBA students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the IMD community is that it’s incredibly close-knit. Right from the start, I noticed how collaborative everyone is, with a strong sense of support and camaraderie among the students. It’s clear that people here genuinely care about each other’s success, which creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
What is one thing you have learned about IMD that has surprised you?
One thing that really surprised me about IMD is the continuous and genuine focus on the individual. I expected a rigorous academic program, but what I didn’t anticipate was just how much attention would be given to each student’s personal development. From day one, it’s clear that IMD is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about helping you grow as a person. The program really takes the time to understand each individual’s strengths, areas for improvement, and personal goals. This emphasis on personal growth, alongside the academic and professional development, has been incredibly eye-opening and deeply impactful. It’s something that sets IMD apart and makes the experience so much more enriching.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
There’s so much going on, and I want to make sure I’m taking full advantage of every opportunity. It’s easy to feel a bit anxious about missing out on something important or not making the most of this experience. With so many valuable learning moments and chances to connect with others, I sometimes worry about whether I’m truly maximizing my time here. It’s a bit overwhelming, but also a reminder to stay focused and be present in each moment.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
One thing I’m most excited about in my first year is our recent Discovery trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was phenomenal and provided professional, cultural, and local insights that I never would have discovered on my own. The trip allowed us to dive deep into the local business environment while also experiencing the rich culture and vibrant energy of the city. It’s been a highlight of the year for me, and it’s these kinds of immersive experiences that make me even more excited about what’s to come.
