Sofia Baldomir 

Imperial College Business School 

Hometown: Montevideo, Uruguay

Fun Fact About Yourself: I love hiking, and in 2023, I completed the Inca Trail in the Andes— a 43 km trek that takes you to Machu Picchu.

Undergraduate School and Major: BSc. in economics at the University of Montevideo and a BSc. in business and management at the London School of Economics

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Blend (AI Consulting Company), Amazon Web Services Global Partnership Manager

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursuing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you? For me, pursuing an MBA was a natural next step to broaden my perspectives and continue learning. After working in fintech and AI consulting, I realized the importance of understanding how businesses across different markets and industries leverage technology to create value.

I was particularly drawn to the idea of learning alongside a diverse cohort, where I could exchange ideas, challenge my assumptions, and develop new ways of thinking. The MBA program at Imperial, with its STEM focus and global orientation, was the perfect fit.

Being awarded both the Latin American Scholarship from Imperial and the Chevening Scholarship from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office from the UK government reaffirmed that now was the right time to make this investment in my personal and professional development.

What have been your first impressions of the Imperial MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far. Tell us your best Imperial story.  One of the most striking aspects of the Imperial MBA community is its collaborative and supportive culture. From the very beginning, I was impressed by how willing everyone is to share their knowledge, insights, and connections. This spirit of collaboration extends far beyond the classroom, creating an environment where we truly learn from one another.

For instance, in one of our professional development sessions we were asked to present a personal goal and identify the types of people we needed to connect with to achieve it. What stood out to me was how quickly my peers offered to help. By the end of the session, I had received offers of support from seven classmates, which was a testament to the generosity and camaraderie within the community.

Beyond these sessions, I’ve also had the opportunity to engage with students and alumni from the school’s various MBA programs — Weekend, Executive, and Global — through events. These interactions have been invaluable in broadening my perspective and deepening my appreciation for the diversity of experiences within the Imperial network.

Aside from your classmates, what were one or two key aspects of Imperial’s MBA program that led you to choose this business school and why were they so important to you? One of the main reasons I chose Imperial was its strong focus on the intersection of business and technology. Imperial’s reputation as a leader in STEM innovation aligned perfectly with my desire to deepen my understanding of how technology drives transformation across industries.

Another key aspect was the emphasis on experiential learning, particularly through initiatives like the Global Experience Week and real-world consulting projects. These opportunities to engage with businesses globally and apply classroom learning in practical environments were critical factors in my decision.

What makes London such a great place to earn an MBA? London’s incredible diversity and vibrant energy make it an ideal place for an MBA. From cultural events and food to professional networking opportunities, the city offers something for everyone.

From a professional perspective, London’s status as a global business hub allows students to connect with companies and leaders across various industries, including finance, technology, and entrepreneurship. As a growing European tech hub, London also offers unparalleled access to innovative companies and cutting-edge developments.

On a personal level, living in London has been an exciting opportunity to reflect, explore new interests, and challenge myself in ways that wouldn’t have been possible back home.

What module, club or activity excites you the most at Imperial? I’m particularly excited about the Global Experience Week in Nairobi, which will take place in June. This opportunity allows students to collaborate with local businesses and NGOs, while gaining first-hand insights into Kenya’s business landscape. I look forward to learning how businesses tackle unique challenges and identifying innovative solutions that can drive economic growth in emerging markets.

Looking at your admissions process, what was the eflect when you realised Imperial was the right programme for you? Why? I realized Imperial was the right program during my admissions interview. While I initially felt nervous, the environment turned out to be incredibly supportive and conversational. I had the chance to ask questions and interact with an alumni who shared his experiences at Imperial, giving me valuable insights.

 What are two things you have learned at your school that have surprised you so far — one academic and one non-academic? Academic: I was surprised by the significant presence and influence of career clubs at Imperial. In my previous university, career clubs didn´t exist, but at Imperial, they play a central role in the student experience. Serving as President of the Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT) Club has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has allowed me to connect with students from other programs and collaborate on events that bring together peers and industry professionals.

Non-Academic: One of the highlights so far has been learning about Japanese culture through my classmates. Last term, three students from Japan organized a cultural experience where we explored their traditions, cuisine, and customs. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with their culture and better get to know our peers. 

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: During my time at Mercado Libre, where I led the implementation of QR code payments for small and medium merchants, I engaged on a project where I experienced first-hand how technology could lift communities, transforming not just businesses but lives. I developed a new initiative that enabled ice cream sellers on the beach to accept electronic payments, generating a 21% uplift in their sales. With this experience I discovered my passion for harnessing technological innovation to transform people’s lives. 

Looking ahead one year, what would make your MBA experience successful? From a personal standpoint, building meaningful, lifelong relationships with classmates. 

From a professional standpoint, I aim to sharpen my problem-solving skills and deepen my understanding of how technology can drive innovation and business growth across industries. By fully engaging with Imperial’s STEM-focused curriculum, I hope to gain insights into emerging technologies and their practical applications.

My goal is to integrate the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during the MBA to make a lasting difference in my career and the industries I work in.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Imperial’s MBA program? Take the time to reflect on your passions and career aspirations and ensure that the program aligns with your long-term goals. Engaging with alumni and current students is an excellent way to gain insights into the university, its initiatives and what to expect. Lastly, believe in yourself, and confidently highlight your unique skills and experiences during the application process. The diversity and inclusivity of UK business schools mean that every perspective has value, so embrace what makes you stand out.

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