Antonieta Bianchi, IESE MBA Class of 2027
Age: 32
Hometown: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Universidad Tecnológica Nacional – Chemical Engineer
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Field Operations Engineer, Oil & Gas, Pan American Energy, 7.5 years.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Since I earned my Chemical Engineering degree, I always wanted to make a technical postgraduate program and then a managerial postgraduate program. In 2022 I started a Specialization in unconventional reservoirs, and when I finished it I thought it was the right moment to start an MBA: I wanted to gain business and leadership skills in order to be a better person in every aspect of my life, including work. I think it is the perfect moment in my career because of the experience I have, what I can share with my classmates and what I can learn from them.
Why did you choose IESE? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose IESE for its mission in the first place, it is the only business school that is people centered without resigning excellence. I really believe that if every leader of the world put the people first, the world will be a better place, and IESE is helping in that development creating leaders at the service of the people, seeking to create positive impact with excellence and integrity.
Secondly, the international cohort was key also in my decision: I am already learning from my classmates!
And finally, I am really interested into the case method because I am really looking forward to learning different perspectives in analysis.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
From a professional point of view, I think I can share my experience as a woman in a male-predominant industry. But also, I want to share the Argentinian values, how the people are and be at my classmates’ disposal for whatever they need. I am really looking forward to build long lasting connections with the people I meet at IESE. The community is very supportive and engaging and I want to be part of that. Serve as an IESE ambassador in Argentina to create connections between Argentinian students and the school.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I have a very active personality, and I am always doing things: I love field hockey, Buddhism activities, hanging out with friends… But the contradiction is that what I enjoy the most in the world is to sleep!
Post-MBA career interests:
I am very interested in finance, so I am focusing in that career track, weather IB or corporate finance for an Oil & Gas Company. I always loved this industry so now I found the opportunity to learn about finance and business and apply all the skills from a new position.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would definitely suggest to contact the admissions team to ask for information and advice. They are really very nice and will guide you through the process. But one of the most important things is to attend to the available events IESE offers. Even if you don’t live in Barcelona there are even some live virtual Campus Tours!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have tried to talk more to alumni, they are great and really willing to help with all the information you usually want to know when you are applying to IESE.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
For me, and I dare say for a lot of the people, preparing for GMAT while working full time was a struggle. Being organised with my studying schedules and consistent really helped me get through it. Sometimes you may think it is too difficult but it is possible. And what also helped me is to listen to podcasts from people that lived the same experience, how they conquered GMAT was really motivating.
What is your initial impression of the IESE students/culture/community?
It is great! The people are awesome, always helping each other. And the classes and rhythm are intense and exigent, which I really like.
I really feel part of a community that is supportive and I love it.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I am joining the Finance Club, the Women in Business Club and the Energy Club for the moment. I hope as soon as I adapt to the schedule I can join more!
What is one thing you have learned about IESE that has surprised you?
All the connections it has all over the world, not only the huge alumni, but the institutions they partner with. It is a huge movement I think which will shape the future for sure.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Getting to know my classmates really well, learn from them and share my experience also!
