The INSEAD MBA program is renowned for its rigor and global perspective. But what happens when you add a three-year-old to the mix? Kabuta, a current INSEAD student in Singapore, shares her unique experience navigating the challenges and rewards of pursuing an MBA while raising a child, offering valuable insights for prospective students, especially parents. Kabuta’s journey highlights the supportive environment at INSEAD and the feasibility of pursuing ambitious goals while balancing family life.
A Non-Traditional Path to INSEAD
Kabuta’s journey to INSEAD began with a desire to broaden her perspective beyond her 20-year career in Japan. She sought a transformative experience, craving exposure to diverse viewpoints and innovative thinking. Her decision to pursue an MBA at INSEAD, with her daughter in tow while her husband remained in Japan, exemplifies her commitment to personal and professional growth. This unique situation, she explains, is made possible by the robust support system provided by INSEAD and Singapore’s social infrastructure, including access to live-in childcare assistance.
Embracing the INSEAD Experience: Academics and Beyond
Kabuta chose INSEAD for its focus on developing future leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning, particularly the Personal Leadership Development Programme (PLDP), resonated with her desire to refine her leadership skills. The PLDP utilizes video recordings and peer feedback to help students analyze their leadership styles in challenging situations. This self-reflective approach, Kabuta notes, underscores INSEAD’s commitment to fostering both knowledge and mindset. Furthermore, the diverse student body and inclusive campus culture have created a welcoming environment for both Kabuta and her daughter.
Building a Network and Empowering Women
Beyond academics, Kabuta actively participates in the Women in Business Club, aligning with her passion for empowering working mothers and breaking down societal barriers. She believes that parents, and especially mothers, can achieve ambitious career goals without sacrificing family life. Her personal initiative to connect with a new person every day, both within and outside of INSEAD, further demonstrates her proactive approach to networking and building relationships. This daily practice has enriched her MBA experience, allowing her to learn from individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Advice for Prospective Students: Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back
Kabuta’s advice to prospective students echoes her own courageous decision: confront your fears and pursue your aspirations. Her INSEAD experience, while unconventional, exemplifies the power of perseverance and the supportive community that awaits those who embrace the challenge. She encourages anyone considering an MBA, especially those with families, to connect with her and learn more about her journey. Kabuta’s story serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of the INSEAD MBA program and its ability to accommodate diverse life circumstances. Her experience highlights that parenthood and ambitious career goals are not mutually exclusive, but can be successfully integrated with the right support system and a determined spirit.
