Valeria Giachetti, IESE MBA Class of 2026
Age: 30
Hometown: Milan, Italy (I’m French and Italian but grew up in Gaborone, Botwana- I’d consider that home too)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Boston University- Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Project Manager at Boston Scientific, 8.5 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I’d like to expand my knowledge and network, boosting a career change and setting me up for future success. Now or never.
Why did you choose IESE? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The admissions team were so personal throughout the process and really showed me how valued the students are at IESE. Plus the high rankings don’t hurt
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I’ve lived in 3 different continents, had extensive experience in the corporate world and most importantly, am here to share all of this with anyone who will listen. I love to create opportunities for people to connect and strive to forge relationships throughout our journey.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have 28 giraffes.
Post-MBA career interests:
would love to gain experience in VC (or consulting or tech) before joining my family business in real estate and hospitality sectors. Pretty much changing my short-term plans every day, but who isn’t?
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Attend assessment day!!! I met a bunch of people whom I really connected with and keep seeing to date.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Get the courage to apply for a scholarship straight up.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Don’t stress on the gmat- that probably made me do worse
What is your initial impression of the IESE students/culture/community?
Everyone is incredibly friendly and I have yet to meet someone I don’t like. There is always something going on that makes you feel good and everyone is always open to having you join in.
What is one thing you have learned about IESE that has surprised you?
I was scared I was going to be one of the older ones- I’m not! I really feel confident that 1. Age doesn’t really matter here and 2. It’s full of people going through similar things in life, many are ahead in some aspects and you’ll always find a great balance cause everyone at IESE has been selected really well by admissions.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
How am I going to get anything done aside from Cases?
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
All the amazing people to get to know better!
