Have you ever felt dizzy making a decision in under 5 minutes? That was our reality during EXSIM week, Monday to Friday, 8am to 10pm+. EXSIM (Executive Management Simulation), the most intensive learning experience of my MBA journey. Our team achieved the highest market share, but the real win was what we learned along the…
Student Experience
The Power of Empathy — A Lesson in Leadership from IESE’s Communication Course
When I stood on stage in front of 450 people at IESE’s Aula Magna, delivering my Ethos speech titled “The Power of Empathy,” I didn’t just share a story—I shared a part of my life. The speech was about my son, who lives with ADHD, and the lessons I learned about empathy, patience, and understanding….
Meet the Exec. Director of AI Initiative, Xili Wu
Hi Xili, please tell us a little bit more about you and your role at IESE’s Artificial Intelligence and Future of Management Initiative (AI Initiative). I grew up in Santa Cruz, California. My father was a professor at the University of California, so I practically grew up on a university campus. Knowledge and learning are…
Internship, Insights, and a Little Swimming
After more than six years in the corporate world, starting my MBA last year felt like stepping into the unknown. Like many of my peers, I wanted to do it all—but I quickly realized that trying to juggle everything spreads you too thin. The real skill lies in making smart trade-offs: prioritizing what truly matters…
NTT DATA Case Competition
From Japan to the World – A Bold Initiative by IESE’s Japan Business Club Written by Taisuke Ojima and Naoyuki Mayumi, MBA 2025 Introduction Since arriving at IESE, we’ve been struck by how much global interest there is in Japanese culture – from sushi and anime to Toyota Production System. Over 100 classmates join our…
