Meet the MBA Class of 2024: Gokce Gun, Esade Business School

Gokce Gun

Esade Business School

“Mediterranean soul from Istanbul,  art and science lover, embracing cultures, seeking adventures, and connections with fellow wanderers.”

Hometown: Istanbul, Turkey

Fun Fact About Yourself: I don’t speak Spanish YET, but I’ve taken on the incredible challenge of learning every single term needed to do my supermarket shopping, from quirky vegetables to various types of gluten-free bread. It was quite a feat! But then, the most hilarious twist happened: I realized that my favorite supermarket’s signs and labels were all in Catalan! Now, I’m proud to say that I can speak both Spanish and Catalan like a pro – well, at least on a supermarket level! It turned out to be a fantastic journey of learning and embracing different cultures, all while filling up my shopping cart with delicious goodies.

Undergraduate School and Major: Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Novartis, Senior Medical Manager

What has been your favorite part of Barcelona so far? What has made it such a great place to earn an MBA? The magical architecture, picturesque nature, and the warm and welcoming culture all make Barcelona a true Mediterranean gem that feels like home to me most of the time.

Aside from your classmates and location, what has been your favorite part of Esade Business School’s MBA programming and why has it been so valuable to you? The innovation and entrepreneurship classes provided me with invaluable insights, expanded my horizons, and introduced me to novel perspectives.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Esade? As the president of the Healthcare Club, I had the privilege of organizing a career trek to Switzerland, which proved to be a remarkable experience for all the participants. It was immensely satisfying and humbling to lead this student-initiated initiative, as it made a significant contribution to the career journeys of my friends and fellow participants.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: As a medical doctor, the most gratifying accomplishment in my career has been the privilege of saving lives and making a difference for my patients. Drawing from my pharmaceutical background, I have been able to amplify this impact and provide even better care to those in need. Now, as I pursue an MBA investment, I am filled with confidence that this opportunity will enable me to expand my reach, allowing me to positively impact the lives of even more people over time.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? As an MBA student with a science background, my greatest accomplishment has been cultivating a global network while exploring the world of business with boundless curiosity. From understanding the main dynamics of the corporate world to embracing the challenges of business classes, I found my scientific perspective to be an asset in this new domain. Alongside my academic growth, I savored the vibrant life in Barcelona, which added a touch of inspiration and enjoyment to my transformative MBA journey.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into the Esade MBA program?

Showcase your accomplishments and leadership impact in previous roles. Esade values candidates who make a difference.

Highlight experiences with diverse cultures and backgrounds, or show willingness to engage with them.

Connect with alumni and current students to gain insights into the program’s culture and opportunities.

Emphasize your learning mindset, displaying eagerness to grow throughout the MBA journey. Esade seeks candidates open to new experiences and committed to personal and professional development.