Testimonials

Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?

I chose Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA for a strong motivation for personal and professional growth, without neglecting internationality as a driver. And the map of destinations chosen from this journey covers the whole world. I feel like an entrepreneur:  not only Italian, not only European too, but really a global one.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?

I chose Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA because it immediately seemed the path that best suited my personality and my desire to gather as much knowledge as possible at international level though. This path allows me to develop both personally and professionally a GLOCAL mindset (Global and Local).

How is this choice satisfying your needs?

It is a path that fits perfectly with my needs, I work in my family's company and a Full Time MBA would have been unthinkable. In this way, every two months I can devote a week to the MBA, and I can also combine business trips to the same destinations. Training + business.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?

This path has led me to get out of mental patterns, it has led me to a greater mind openness, it has led me to greater resistance and every time I return from a module I return to my company with a lot of positive energy and motivation.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.

Intense. Dynamic. Cool.

Anything else - like a personal note - you may wish to add.

Choose this path considering that it is the right moment in one’s life, since it requires a lot of resilience and constancy. But I can say it was one of the best choices in my life to date. 

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
I joined the Rotman - SDA Bocconi GEMBA program because the structure was a great fit for my professional development. I liked that the program would allow me to continue to progress my career while studying and integrate travel which I have always been passionate about.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
I wanted to boost my learning, challenge myself and get an opportunity to travel and network. The programme gave me the opportunity to broaden my understanding of business beyond the area of procurement I specialise in. Challenged me to balance work and study helped me develop my ability to focus on strategic priorities. Above all, the programme has given me an incredible network and a lot of new friendships.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
I’m really happy I joined the programme and in many ways it has exceeded my expectations. I have enjoyed interacting with academic staff, learning new concepts and applying them to real business problems. In addition, every module gives you the local context and an understanding of how business works in the country you are in. The Learning Safaris we do are a real value-add where we get to connect with executives of the companies we visit and discuss the challenges they face.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
The key takeaways from the programme for me go beyond the classroom. Outside of the inspiring academic environment, I have learned key lessons about time management, working in diverse teams and adapting your approach to business to the local environment you’re in.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Exciting. Enriching. Energising.

Anything else - like a personal note - you may wish to add.
Time on the programme goes incredibly fast and you’re fully engage every minute of the residential modules. My advice to future participants in the programme is to make the most of every opportunity they get. This can be extremely exhausting but an incredibly rewarding experience.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
I selected to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA as it is the best program in the market that encompasses executive professional education, international exposure to various business practices in the world and lives the testimony of creating a sustainability-driven change across the globe.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
My personal motivation is activating growth potential and reaching the next level on my personal journey, in expanding a business division, launching a new product and setting the new system thinking.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
I've been impressed with the program all the way from the organisation, material quality, learning safaris, interaction between professors, program directors, and participant selection.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
Attending international modules across the world is a life-changing experience, which I take with the most gratefulness, as it requires full attention in absorbing concepts, experiences, diverse perspectives and offering unique viewpoints among the multitude of participants involved.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Accelerating. Intensifying. Upgrading Experience.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
The quest for my Executive MBA began in 2017 in Singapore, fueled by a strong passion for personal and professional growth. Moreover, I am constantly in pursuit of knowledge. I embarked on an extensive research endeavour, visiting numerous esteemed business schools worldwide. But the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA program profoundly resonated with my aspirations. Firstly, it provided a pathway for intellectual expansion and skill augmentation. Secondly, it offered a comprehensive global perspective that entailed travelling to different regions of the world. This aspect enabled me to fully immerse myself in local cultures, comprehend diverse mindsets, and gain profound insights into the intricacies of successful business operations in various settings. Lastly, Satisfying my innate curiosity to explore the world and forge connections with people from varied backgrounds fulfilled my desire for exploration and fostering diverse relationships. The decision to enrol in the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA program went beyond a mere educational choice; it encompassed a comprehensive experience that perfectly aligned with my aspirations.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
Both personal and professional factors played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue the SDA Bocconi GEMBA program. From a professional standpoint, I aimed to augment my leadership abilities, broaden my understanding of business principles, and gain a global perspective on strategic approaches. Interacting with accomplished faculty members and diverse professionals was a captivating prospect, as it would significantly enrich my knowledge of international business practices.

Additionally, a strong desire for self-improvement and intellectual development propelled me forward. I recognised that learning is an ongoing voyage, and I eagerly embraced the opportunity to challenge myself and venture beyond my comfort zone. The prospect of immersing myself in diverse cultures and gaining first-hand exposure to global business environments was equally compelling.

Furthermore, I was highly motivated by the potential impact that this program could have on my career trajectory. The skills and knowledge I would acquire through the GEMBA program were bound to enhance my leadership capabilities and unlock fresh career prospects. Ultimately, my decision was driven by an earnest aspiration to grow, learn, and make a meaningful contribution to my chosen field.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
The GEMBA program at Rotman-SDA Bocconi has surpassed my initial expectations. The outstanding faculty members offer valuable insights into the business realm and generously share their extensive knowledge and personal experiences. One aspect of the program that I found particularly enriching is the emphasis on learning from my cohort. My fellow participants' diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences have been invaluable for learning and growth.

The GEMBA program has presented me with formidable challenges, stretching my abilities to their limits. GEMBA has catalysed me to explore uncharted territory, fostering the simultaneous development of my personal and professional spheres. Armed with a comprehensive array of resources, a wide-reaching network, and an enhanced self-belief, I now possess the necessary skills and confidence to adeptly navigate the complex landscape of the global business arena.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
Attending international modules across the globe has provided me with a profound comprehension and deep appreciation for the role of cultural diversity in the business realm. Immerse in the distinct business landscapes of various countries, each shaped by its unique culture, history, and economic context, I have gained valuable insights from diverse perspectives. Experiencing such situations has expanded my views and allowed me to excel in varied business settings.

In the contemporary age of globalisation, proficiency in effective cross-cultural communication has emerged as an indispensable competence. These encounters have not only influenced the formation of my professional identity but have also fortified my ability to empathise, be patient, and embrace diverse perspectives.

These experiences are a powerful affirmation of our collective human journey, which we all actively participate in. Despite our differences, we are united by common aspirations and shared obstacles. As a result, I am committed to fostering collaboration and cultivating mutual understanding in my professional pursuits, recognising their transformative potential. Consequently, I now approach collaborations with individuals from diverse backgrounds with greater self-assurance and motivation.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Enlightening. Transformative. Empowering.

Personal Note:
Embarking on the GEMBA journey at SDA Bocconi has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. It has not only equipped me with advanced business acumen but also instilled a sense of confidence to face the evolving global business challenges. The program has catalysed personal and professional growth, and I am excited to see where this journey takes me. To anyone considering the GEMBA program at SDA Bocconi, embrace the challenge; the rewards are immeasurable.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
To “strengthen my shoulders” when I will be in charge of running the company I am working for. Also, I believe this program, besides allowing me to reach my goals of personal and professional growth, represents the "icing on the cake" for my management education. 

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
I wish this program will help me in life to enhance my self-esteem and be braver.
My professional motivation is simply becoming the CEO of the company with full support of partners and colleagues.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
People in the company look at what I am doing with admiration and respect. They somehow appreciate it, because they know I am doing this for the good and the future of the company.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
Live globally and stretch your mind to be always open. Also, always combine a module around the world with a customer or supplier/ Principal visit. 

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
GEMBA = Challenging your personal and professional routine.

Anything else - like a personal note - you may wish to add.
It’s not only you that apply for GEMBA, but your whole family. Don’t do it if you don’t have their full support.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
SDA Bocconi is internationally recognized for its excellence in business education. The school consistently ranks among the top business schools globally, attracting top-tier faculty and talented students from around the world. It provides a diverse and inclusive environment that fosters valuable connections with fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals. The program offers numerous networking events, guest lectures, and career development opportunities, allowing students to expand their professional network and build lasting relationships. When I knew that the program is dual with a well-recognized Rotman School of Management that is famous for its classic academic background and research, my choice was made.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
GEMBA from Rotman-SDA Bocconi can significantly enhance career prospects. The program equips students with essential business skills, leadership capabilities, and practical knowledge to excel in a competitive business landscape. The school maintains strong connections with leading companies, offering access to internship and job opportunities through dedicated career services from both schools. It offers a truly international learning experience. The program attracts a diverse cohort of students from various cultural and professional backgrounds, providing a rich multicultural environment. The curriculum incorporates global business cases, study trips, and exchange programs with partner universities worldwide, enabling students to develop a global mindset and expand their perspectives.
GEMBA program also combines rigorous academic coursework with experiential learning opportunities. The curriculum integrates theory and practice, emphasizing real-world business challenges and case studies. Students are encouraged to think critically, develop problem-solving skills, and apply their knowledge in practical settings. It has a strong and extensive alumni network comprising successful professionals and business leaders. The alumni community provides ongoing support, mentorship, and networking opportunities, opening doors for career advancement and future collaborations.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
I am delighted to embark on GEMBA program. During the modules it provided me with a sense of personal fulfilment and accomplishment as I acquired new knowledge, overcame challenges, and achieved my academic goals and now I’m in the transformation phase to achieve my career goals, so the most important for me was the network expansion. Building a robust professional network is invaluable for future collaborations, especially on executive MBA program.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
The most important for me was living the unprecedented experience from learning safaris and learn leadership, strategy and business development from top companies across the globe. Nevertheless, social development project that we worked on in San Paolo was one of the most heart touching and valuable experiences.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Transformative. Comprehensive. Life-changing.

Anything else - like a personal note - you may wish to add.
Be ready! It will be an inner change journey!

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
In life, learning is an ongoing process. This philosophy is my natural engine in both my personal and professional life. The global pandemic emphasized the necessity to question the rules, and now the world is going through fundamental changes. It is great to be part of the SDA Bocconi international community to learn together and from each other new ways to approach business, brands and people.
Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
I am a woman from centuries old civilization renowned for inherent entrepreneurship and meaningful life philosophies. I would love to unite my western mindset with these foundations and propose a new profile of leadership.
What are your expectations for the upcoming months within the GEMBA program?
Learn, share and grow on a human and intellectual level.
Your GEMBA program in 3 words.
Structure. Vision. Empowerment.
If you really believe in it you can do it. 
So just do it.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
My life credo is moving forward and building strong foundation for present and future achievements, which is impossible to execute without constant personal and professional development in nowadays transforming world. Let me introduce GEMBA as a program that enables to shape and leverage on experience, makes you adaptive and sustainable to changes, trains to process the information and act appropriately at higher speeds and higher quality. I am a Retail Banker with 16 years of experience in banking industry that largely determined my choice in favor of Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA. SDA Bocconi is famous for its strong and outstanding faculties in finance, banking and business management disciplines. SDA Bocconi graduates hold leadership positions in most successful companies worldwide. As we usually say: “Bocconi is everywhere”. At the same time the program is dual degree and it is not only about the advantage of having titles from American and European business schools, but it is also about the combinations of teaching and learning techniques. The two business schools balance each other and are complementary to each other. This is a great opportunity to get access to the job markets of both regions and gain network from two continents.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
Actually, my personal decision to enroll GEMBA was driven by the desire to get helicopter view in the fields and industries that I was not enough familiar with. My primary request was to enrich professional capital and prepare myself for a new role, to gain value as a leader on a larger stage, to enhance personal skills through working and studying in the environment of diverse and talented people

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
I truly believe that this is the best choice that could have been made. During the program, I switched from Retail credit risk management to the new role in Retail Business, successfully led and closed the acquisition deal with an international partner, overcame various complicated challenges in management of the team out of 400 people, and many more to mention. That was the experience of GEMBA in action. Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA is about getting the knowledge on main aspects about how businesses are managed and organized in any company and any industry, about common “green thread” that connects economic growth, increased social equity and a healthy environment.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
It is hard to imagine Executive MBA without attending international modules and without opportunity of visiting companies. That would not be full –fledged learning and networking experienced. As one of the examples, I will bring module in San Francisco. We were running the corporate strategy course and the given framework in class was ideally demonstrated in practice by hosting companies. We were given priceless company insights, and we met a lot of interesting experts and professionals. Company visits are essential for connecting all puzzle pieces. Our cohort became a big family during international modules since we spent all the time together, learning from each other and having great time never be forgotten.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Stability. Opportunity. Advantage.

Anything else - like a personal note - you may wish to add.
Be committed. Be ready to be there. Look inside and around to be sure it is the right time for you to enroll. If you are ready, jump in and you will never regret.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
After changing my career from public accounting and consulting to the sports industry, I spent several years considering the type of program that would best suit my professional and personal interests. The opportunity to travel internationally, study in-person, and network abroad made it clear that the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA was the best choice for me.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
It was important to select a program that would allow me to best manage the coursework and travel despite professional commitments. It was this balance that would enable me to put into practice the key learnings from courses in between modules.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
I began realizing the value of the GEMBA early on. The takeaways from each module accelerated my professional and personal development, and better prepared me for the next chapter in my career. That immediate sense of return validated the reasons why I chose the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA and further stressed the importance of continuous education.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
The international modules provided me with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and experiences inside and outside of the classroom. They also enabled me to network and create new connections in my industry.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Transformative. Relationships. Enlightening.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
Two reasons. First of all, due to the fact I am dispatched from China HQ in Italy. Secondly, I was recommended by my local colleague due to the TOP ranking of SDA Bocconi worldwide. In the meanwhile, I would say that another reason is the cost package vs ROI.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
Enhancing my theoretic knowledge and growing up myself for my future.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
I have really enjoyed a lot the professionalism and global allocation of all modules.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
I got the heavy influence from the module in Brazil, related to renewable energy. Therefore, now I changed my job from home appliances to renewable energy business. I do believe this is valuable also environmental protection, and I really enjoyed that.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Professional. Influence. Added Value!

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?

My reasons behind choosing Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA were mainly driven by my desire to combine a groundbreaking and innovative learning experience with a solid global perspective provided by two of the top business schools in the world.

Over the past few years, I’ve been reflecting a lot about my career strategy and how my job and expertise will change and evolve in the future, coming to the conclusion that we are in a rapidly changing business environment like never before: to keep up the pace you must keep moving and learning.

The second reason is linked to the global nature and modular format of this program. I like to consider myself a citizen of the world and an addictive learner: having the opportunity to experience this journey with an international community is an accelerator of the experience itself. The diversity that comes from travelling, engaging with professionals from all over the world, understanding different cultures and ways of doing business pushes you out of your comfort zone while giving greater managerial confidence to approach complex settings. The modular format of the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA revealed to be the best solution for managing my work commitments and making the best use of my time.

Finally, I strongly believe that the joint expertise of the two leading business schools is the perfect match to meet my desire of broadening my mindset, refining my business skills and being able to spot and capitalize future challenges faster than I ever have.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?

So far, I couldn’t ask for more. The faculty is made up of outstanding professors and the classroom environment is extremely empowering. The Directors and program management team are highly committed to continuously supporting the class throughout every single step of this journey by offering stellar guidance that lets us really focus on learning. Every module so far has been a blended experience which balances interdisciplinary knowledge, new hands-on strategic tools for business, and a strong focus on leadership and team skills development. We could also boast the opportunity to experience memorable “learning safaris” by visiting leading companies around the world, that are intended to give us concrete insights and shape our understanding of the concepts covered in class.

Concerning networking, it’s impressive how the class was able to connect and make strong bonds since the beginning: sharing, forming trust and helping one another towards deliverables and goals is allowing us to develop new ways of thinking and, why not…even offering potential business opportunities, career advice, personal growth, or simply new knowledge. We all have diversified backgrounds and roles, we come from 26 different countries and from several industries with various seniorities and generations, but everyone is striving for excellence and we all share the same vision and passion for learning and business challenges. That’s key to getting the most from the program.

What are your expectations for the upcoming international modules?

Keep fostering my network inside and outside the program by leveraging all the hands-on opportunities, keep learning and I can’t wait to translate into action all the insights learned so far to positively influence my job and my life.

Your program in 3 words/adjectives.

I would say:

#NextGlobalLeaders which is the hashtag we voted on as a class to represent our team in this transformative path together. It fully represents our strong team spirit and our commitment to always keep looking ahead.

Challenge as this program is an intense lifetime experience, powerful enough to completely change our personal and professional lives from now on.

Energy since GEMBA is for people who are willing to go the extra mile, to go above and beyond the expectations and make a bigger effort to have a real impact.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
I decided to undertake Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA program since I strongly believe that learning is a never-ending process. I chose a program that, more than others, offered an innovative and global learning experience provided by two of the top business schools in the world. I was looking for a learning experience in a global environment and the program was the perfect match: modules in different business schools across the globe to leverage the diversity that comes from travelling, engaging with professionals from all over the world, understanding different cultures and ways of doing business.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
I decided to apply for GEMBA in a period of fast changes of the business environment in which I was working. At the point in time, I realized I needed new “tools”, new “lenses” to read the business context, and a new mindset to keep the pace and enhance my leadership skills.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?
GEMBA was an 18-months’ journey out of my comfort zone, I learnt that everything is impossible until you make it happen. I learnt how to feel at ease even if I’m out of my comfort zone and how to leverage of fast changes to progress even faster in my career. My needs were fully satisfied thanks to the outstanding faculties I met, in the different modules, across the globe and thanks to the continuous interaction with my peers, 42 talents from different regions and different businesses.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
The program is built to expose participants to diversity: travelling, engaging with professionals from all over the world, understanding different cultures and ways of doing business pushes out of personal comfort zone and allow to challenge personal beliefs. Openness to change and being confident out of the comfort zone are pivotal to gain managerial confidence to approach complex settings in the work business environment.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives
Mind-blowing, as this program pushed me out my personal beliefs and comfort zone.
Challenging, as this program is a demanding lifetime experience, my work-study – family balance was quite stretched during the program but … I learnt that everything is possible if you really believe in it.
Teamwork: GEMBA is for people who are eager to learn from peers and, together, go above and beyond expectations.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?
Continuous learning coupled with experience is the key to success. Either you stay as you are or you choose to excel. I chose the latter.

Which personal/professional needs/motivations lie behind your choice?
I had grown in my profession over the years, but hit a plateau. I needed new executive skills that would catapult my career forward.
How is this choice satisfying your needs?

In the beginning of the Program, I made it a personal goal to be elected to the board of directors and it did happen, in large part to the preparation I received from the GEMBA program.

What is your most important takeaway in attending international modules across the world?
To be successful in multiple countries around the world, you need to be open to listen to the needs of the individual in each location. You cannot force your ideas or concepts on others. You have to listen and then adapt to succeed.

Describe your GEMBA experience in 3 words/adjectives.
Transformative. Important. Inspirational.

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Why did you choose to undertake the Rotman-SDA Bocconi GEMBA?

I chose Rotman-SDA Bocconi because I was looking for a global MBA with multicultural students and international perspectives. Nowadays, the world is getting more complex due to globalization, structural crises, global competition as well as other reasons. The way to face those challenges is to listen and understand in order to be included in that transformation process.

How is this choice satisfying your needs?

I understood I made the right choice when I met my collegues. All of us are looking for a big change in his/her life based on an internal revolution. In that frame, GEMBA is the key for our personal gate to the future! Skills, passion and motivation are what we all need.

What are your expectations for the upcoming international modules?

I understood I made the right choice when I met my collegues. All of us are looking for a big change in his/her life based on an internal revolution. In that frame, GEMBA is the key for our personal gate to the future! Skills, passion and motivation are what we all need.

Your program in 3 words/adjectives.

Intellectual tzunami, transformative, totalizing.

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