The GEMBA experience: learn, connect, transform
A world of perspectives: the value of diversity
Diversity at SDA Bocconi is more than a value—it’s the driving force behind a transformative learning experience. Our classrooms bring together bright minds from across the globe, each contributing their unique perspectives, backgrounds, and expertise. This exchange fosters innovation, broadens horizons, and prepares our participants to navigate the complexities of a global business environment.
As part of this commitment, our Class profile reflects an extraordinary mix of nationalities, industries, and professional experiences, ensuring that every discussion is enriched by a variety of viewpoints. But we don’t stop there.
International Student Care is our way of ensuring that every participant, no matter where they’re from, feels at home at SDA Bocconi. Moving to a new country is exciting, but we know it comes with challenges. That’s why Francesca Roveda is here to support you every step of the way, from visas and permits to stay, to cultural integration and daily life tips.
Beyond this, our Program Management team plays a fundamental role in ensuring that every student is guided and supported throughout their on-campus journey. Acting as dedicated points of reference, our Program Managers provide personalized assistance, fostering an environment where students feel heard, valued, and cared for. We’re not just shaping your education—we’re shaping an experience that feels like home.
Need more details? Reach out to Francesca at francesca.roveda@sdabocconi.it
Inside-out learning: an experience without borders
At SDA Bocconi, learning extends far beyond the classroom. We believe that the most impactful experiences happen when knowledge is applied, connections are made, and perspectives are broadened. That’s why our extracurricular activities are designed to bring the business world to life and help you build lasting relationships along the way.
The architecture of our campus also reflects this philosophy. Designed with transparency, accessibility, and openness in mind, our buildings feature vast glass facades, open spaces, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. This unique structure symbolizes our commitment to breaking down barriers, creating a continuous exchange of ideas and knowledge that extends far beyond the classroom.
Extracurricular activities
Every experience and challenge is an opportunity to refine your skills, expand your perspective, and step outside your comfort zone, deepening your understanding of diverse business landscapes. Here, you don’t just learn—you live the experience.
Student Clubs
Clubs are a key part of the SDA Bocconi experience, fostering connections and sparking new ideas through exchanges among students, Faculty, Alums, and industry professionals. Led by students, they require strong management skills to secure funding, develop business plans, and handle relationships with the press and private firms, making them a dynamic platform for learning and collaboration.
Professional
Fosters interaction between aspiring consultants and the industry, offering resources and networking occasions to enhance skills and foster valuable relationships in management consulting.
Gathers students passionate about new businesses, technology and innovation, encouraging business creation, innovative ideas, and a startup mindset for personal and professional success.
Focuses on finance knowledge, training, and networking. Provides workshops, events, and resources to deepen financial expertise and prepare members for success in diverse finance roles.
Aims to broaden understanding of the healthcare industry and career, bridging theory and practice through networking, workshops, company visits, seminars and collaboration with experts.
Delves into luxury and arts industries with hands-on exposure and a deeper insight into the field, broadening knowledge of high-end markets, cultural expressions, and brand strategies.
Promotes knowledge and awareness of sustainability across all industries, strengthening relationships with key sectors that play a crucial role in fighting climate change.
Gathers tech enthusiasts eager to explore emerging technologies, collaborate on digital solutions, and connect with industry pioneers, fostering a forward-thinking culture of innovation.
Social Impact
Promotes ethical thinking and responsible leadership, guiding members to incorporate integrity, transparency, social responsibility, and a commitment to charity and giving back into business.
Elevates LGBTQIA+ visibility and inclusivity in business, providing supportive networks and alliances that foster respectful work environments and advocate for equality for all professionals.
Empowers women’s leadership through mentorship, networking, and development programs, equipping future leaders to overcome barriers and stereotypes and achieve gender parity in business.
Sport & Leisure
Leverages sailing as a leadership tool, orchestrating regattas, training, social gatherings and events to strengthen communication, strategic thinking, and team spirit on and off the water.
Gathers skiers and snowboarders for trips, competitions, and shared experiences in the mountains, using the slopes to foster community spirit and cultivate an active, adventurous mindset.
My GEMBA in 60 seconds - Alessandro Catalano
Testimonials
Students and Alumni are the best testimonials of how Global Executive MBA helps leverage participants' attitudes and knowledge. Thanks to their experience and professional positions, they complement the guidance and information given by the Director and the Recruiting Team.
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/profess...
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 choi...
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 is the testimony of creating a sustainability-driven change across the globe.
Which personal/professional needs/motivations ...
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...
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 wi...
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...
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 ...
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...
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 b...
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?
Enhancin...
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 exper...
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...
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 forwar...
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 includ...
Alumni network: your forever community
Graduation is not the end of your SDA Bocconi journey—it’s just the beginning of a lifelong connection. As part of our global Alumni Community, you’ll have continuous access to networking opportunities, exclusive events and a thriving professional ecosystem that supports you at every stage of your career.
Through the Bocconi Alumni Community (BAC), you can engage with a network of industry leaders, participate in regional chapter events, and benefit from mentorship opportunities. Our global Alumni Chapters play a key role in spreading the word and values of SDA Bocconi worldwide, fostering connections and creating opportunities in major business hubs across the globe. Stay connected, leverage your SDA Bocconi experience, and continue to be part of a community that extends far beyond the classroom.
