Jeroen Kemperman

In May 2011 I faced a tough decision: Pursue my own business or do an MBA. I felt I lacked key skills and connections. On top of that, given my age I felt it was now or never for the MBA. Therefore I chose to pursue a top-MBA and went to IESE Business School. Let me share my experiences thus far. 

After 4 months

When I write this I have gone through the first 4 months of the MBA program. It is intense, I study until after midnight every day of the week. But I have learned so much. The case study method used at IESE makes me feel like I’ve experienced several years worth of business situations in just 4 months. On top of that I’ve been meeting amazing people every single day. I came to the program with expectations, but after 4 months they have already been exceeded.

An MBA for an aspiring entrepreneur?

I decided to do an MBA while having the desire to start my own business. Some may say that this is contradictory. However after 4 months I can say that the contrary can also be true. The things I am learning will help my future business and prevent me from making many mistakes. But, the amazing people that I have the privilege of meeting will help even more!

Time will tell…

The IESE MBA lasts 18months, something I chose on purpose.  The first year focuses on building a foundation for general management. Currently I am concentrating on laying this foundation. However the second year students can choose from many courses and I plan to specialize in entrepreneurship. During this second year I will also work on my own business, validating the model and finding investors. Time will tell in which way the IESE MBA will help me. To the amazing life of an entrepreneur, or to a amazing next step in my career. One thing I am sure of after 4 months: The experience will help me in whichever path I choose pursue!