As the IESE MBA Class of 2026 wraps up its first term, a collective sigh of relief can be heard across campus. The past four months have been nothing short of transformative—an intense mix of emotions, growth, and unforgettable experiences.
We began the year brimming with energy, fueled by the thrill of starting this new chapter in vibrant Barcelona. The initial weeks were a whirlwind of settling into the city and soaking in its charm. Between reading three cases a day and debating them passionately in class, we somehow managed to squeeze in nights of celebration—nearly every night, if we’re honest.
Asado, one of our biggest events in the first term
Midterms came and went, yet the festivities never seemed to pause. But as November rolled in, the real intensity of MBA life began to sink in. The looming pressures of internship applications and finals brought a new level of focus and camaraderie to our class.
This is where the IESE community truly shone. Financial wizards among us hosted masterclasses, helping peers navigate the complexities of accounting. By day, we tackled post-acquisition income statements; by night, we perfected cover letters and polished CVs. Shoutout to the second years: who were the real MVPs this term. Their guidance on “buckets of three” (a tried-and-true IESE staple) and relentless encouragement kept us moving forward. This unique 19-month program showed us just how essential it is to have a senior class paving the way.
Accounting masterclass, hosted by my fellow classmates
Through it all—long study sessions, countless applications, and a rollercoaster of emotions— one thing remained constant: the unwavering support of our peers (and, of course, the parties). It’s this shared journey that makes IESE feel so special.
A special thank you to our amazing professors, whose knowledge and enthusiasm have left us awestruck and eager for more. Now, as we gear up for the second term, we may not fully grasp how we’ve grown, but we know for sure: something is changing within us.
So, here’s to what lies ahead—the cases, the cover letters, and maybe even a bit more dancing. Buckle up, because this rollercoaster of emotions is only just getting started. Who needs sleep when you have an MBA?
Written by Nandika Puri, MBA 2026
Pursue your dream MBA! Take these next steps today:
