A semester of connections and discoveries for the Global MBA
23 December 2024The conclusion of the first semester of the Global MBA marked a moment of reflection and sharing for a community that has proven to be dynamic, inclusive, and deeply connected from the very beginning.
These have been intense months, filled with academic and personal experiences that have allowed participants to explore new horizons, both professionally and personally.
In an international and interdisciplinary context, the classrooms became spaces of continuous dialogue, while informal moments strengthened bonds that go beyond the academic journey. A recent example was the year-end holiday toast, where students, families, and members of the community came together to celebrate a shared milestone. Events like these are not just opportunities to celebrate but also reminders of the importance of mutual support during such an intense program.
Company visits and interdisciplinarity: experiences that enrich
Among the most significant moments of the semester, the company visits offered a direct connection between theory and practice. As highlighted by Kirthi Gomatam, one of the Global MBA participants, these experiences were fundamental in understanding the dynamics of companies operating in diverse industries. Barilla, Bisazza, the Milano Triennale, and Fondazione Castiglione, among others, opened their doors, providing the opportunity to explore business models and innovation up close.
“These visits allowed me to connect my Food & Wine track with other areas of the program, such as Design, Fashion, and Luxury Goods,” Kirthi explains. “The discussions with my classmates, who come from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds, further enriched these experiences, offering new and unexpected perspectives.”
An international dimension that encourages exchange
Diversity is one of the key elements that defines the Global MBA. With participants and faculty from all over the world, every classroom discussion is enriched by different points of view, fostering deeper and more comprehensive reflections.
Kirthi enthusiastically recalls the Industrial Design and Branding course, which combined academic learning with practical application through case studies and lessons led by industry experts. “The contributions of my classmates, coming from such varied professional and cultural contexts, pushed me to think in new ways, going beyond the limits of the curriculum.”
The value of community: between sharing and family
One of the most appreciated aspects of the semester has been the sense of community that has developed among the participants. Events like the recent holiday toast at the BBS campus, as well as more informal moments such as shared dinners or group trips, have helped build connections that transcend the academic setting.
Kirthi fondly recalls a special moment: an evening at a classmate’s home where she learned to bake traditional Christmas cookies with his family. “These moments remind us that we are not just students but part of a larger network that includes the people who support us every day,” she reflects. Another memorable experience was a Halloween trip to a villa in Chianti, where participants cooked together, sharing laughter and stories.
Looking ahead
With the second semester on the horizon, the focus now shifts to specialized tracks. For Kirthi, this means diving deeper into the Food & Wine industry, participating in new company visits, and continuing to develop skills that will be crucial for the next step in her career.
But at the heart of it all remains the community: a network of support, collaboration, and connection that makes every experience more meaningful. “The first semester taught me how important it is to engage with others, not just to learn but to grow together.”
One semester comes to a close, but the journey continues!
