Axel Martinez, Esade MBA Class of 2026
Age: 31
Hometown: Mexico
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidad Anahuac – Business Administration
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Business Development Manager. Hospital Multimedica Norte. 9 years work experience.
Esade 12-, 15-, or 18- month track: 18 months
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
After the pandemic, there was a significant shift in the healthcare sector where I work. Additionally, I reached a point in my career where I clearly identified my areas for improvement and the focus needed to fully develop my potential. In a sector where being well-prepared is more crucial than ever, this made it the right time for me to pursue business school.
Why did you choose Esade? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Several factors influenced my decision to choose Esade, including the city, the university’s history, and the program structure. However, the most important for me was Esade’s entrepreneurial focus and culture. As someone with an entrepreneurial spirit, I was drawn to Esade’s global reputation in this area. Additionally, from the application process onwards, I felt a genuine warmth from all members of the Esade community, which reinforced my decision to apply to this exceptional university.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025?
I bring experience from the healthcare sector within a family business, along with involvement in environmental impact research and volunteer work in South Africa. I can offer a business perspective focused on sustainability and environmental impact.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
While volunteering in Kruger National Park, my group and I encountered a young male elephant, known for being particularly aggressive due to intense hormonal changes. As it began to charge at us, we quickly retreated to our pickup truck. Just as it started accelerating toward us, our leader yelled at the elephant in Afrikaans, and to our surprise, it stopped! We were all frozen with fear, but thankfully, it ended up being just a great story to tell.
Post-MBA career interests:
Tech (primary gaming) and Healthcare
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Thoroughly researching the curriculum, school values, student and faculty profiles, and the city were crucial in selecting the ideal program for me.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started the application process earlier. Applying just three months before the program began, especially as an international student, created unnecessary stress in ensuring everything was in place on time.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped the excessive stress over the application process. While it’s crucial to prepare well for exams, I realized it’s even more important to understand your strengths and weaknesses and clearly define what you expect from the program. Once you have those two points clear, the application process flows much more smoothly.
What is your initial impression of the Esade students/culture/community?
I’ve had the opportunity to interact with some members of the Class of 2025, and what stands out is the incredible diversity of backgrounds—ranging from healthcare and tech to finance, family businesses, and NGOs
What is one thing you have learned about Esade that has surprised you?
I’ve been impressed by how well-structured the program is. From the moment I was accepted, I’ve received continuous support, reminders, and various tools to help me start exploring this opportunity to the fullest.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m a bit anxious about sharing classes with people who are so well-prepared in areas where I lack experience. However, I see it as a valuable opportunity to complement my knowledge and leverage the strengths of the entire cohort.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Beyond meeting people from around the world, enjoying the university and the city, I’m most excited about developing various skills that will help me bring my vision and personality to life in the business world.
