Breaking The Glass Ceiling: Hacking Campus Life & Fostering Friendship At London Business School

With the spring term at London Business School nearing an end, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences that have shaped my time here. If I were to summarize my MBA journey in one sentence, I would borrow the quote from The Intern. Here, Robert De Niro’s character says, “Experience is the key to everything – and that’s something you can only get from doing.” My time at LBS has provided countless opportunities to learn through doing – whether by engaging in diverse interactions, exchanging cultural insights, or participating in various activities. Each experience pushed me beyond my comfort zone, teaching me how to effectively navigate building meaningful connections.

LBS is a vibrant melting pot, nurturing 400+ future leaders from 60+ nationalities who are ready to create an impact in the world. Every person I met, through group exercises, coffee chats, conferences, or serendipity, brought perspectives that pushed me to think differently. Though I haven’t completely mastered the art, I definitely learnt some hacks to foster connections at LBS which could be helpful for other students.

TAPPING INTO THE SAFE SPACE OF A STUDY GROUP

From the moment you step onto campus, you’re assigned to a study group. My study group, Study Group 12 from Stream B – affectionately called “B12” – became a crucial part of my journey. Just like vitamin B12 is essential for energy, focus, and well-being, my study group fueled my academic and personal growth throughout the MBA.

The group consisted of Rakesh Mistry (an Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon with experience working within the UK’s National Health Service), Kazuki Nishimaki (a finance professional), and Kathryn Fatina and Willy Martinez (both consultants at top-tier firms). They were a perfect blend of diverse expertise and strength. We brought out the best in each other, ensuring no one was left behind. Whether we were tackling complex cases or helping each other with difficult coursework, we were there for one another, constantly pushing each other to succeed.

What truly made our group special was the way we embraced each other’s cultures and backgrounds. We often came together outside of academics to share our traditions and experiences. We celebrated Thanksgiving at Kathryn’s, hosted a Mexican dinner night with Willy, and attended a sake night at Kazuki’s. In the process, our bonds deepened as we explored each other’s unique cultural perspectives. And witnessing Rakesh’s wedding was a milestone that cemented our friendship.

The synergy within B12 perfectly exemplifies how networking at LBS isn’t just about exchanging business cards or transactional connections. It’s about fostering genuine relationships that create a meaningful and impactful learning environment. Through these connections, we didn’t just grow our professional networks – we built lasting friendships and a support system that will continue to be invaluable long after graduation.

FINDING COMMONALITY WITHIN DIFFERENCES

Beyond my study group, one of the most impactful connections was with Piero Cardova from Peru, my “partner in crime”. Despite our different linguistic and cultural backgrounds, we quickly discovered many commonalities. At the core, both of us have witnessed the transformative power of education as first generation students. This shared belief has guided much of our journey, from co-leading the First Generation Low and Intermediate Club (FLII) to driving the success of the EdTech Club, which Piero built from the ground up.

We met early on when we were paired up for an assignment. What followed was a partnership grounded in mutual respect and a shared passion for learning. I’ve always admired Piero’s perseverance and dedication, whether it was his months of training for a cycling trek to Paris to his tireless work to improve EdTech opportunities. He continually pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo.

Piero and I may have come from different places, but our shared values and experiences have made us partners in a journey toward making an impact on campus and beyond. Our relationship is a perfect example of how networking at LBS is not just transactional; it’s about forming meaningful connections that foster growth.

SEEKING EXCELLENCE FROM OTHERS

While everyone at LBS exhibits excellence, one person who has truly amazed me is Miguel Garfella from Spain. A swimmer, sprinter, intellectual, consultant, and Dean’s List member, Miguel embodies what it means to excel in all aspects of life. Sitting next to me in classes, he taught me valuable academic lessons while also helping me learn some Spanish.

I still remember how he first introduced himself as “Michael” to me, thinking I might not be able to pronounce his name. Little did I know, this small act was a glimpse into his humility. Through knowing him, I have learned two very important lessons about nurturing bonds.

The first is humility in success. Miguel’s willingness to help others is a reminder that true excellence is rooted in kindness and collaboration. The second is the power of showing up. Miguel has always been there for his friends and peers when needed, embodying the importance of being present and supportive, no matter how busy or accomplished you may be.

Miguel has shown me that excellence is not just about personal achievement, but how we show up for others and contribute to a community.

LOOKING BEYOND “NETWORKS”

One of the first friendships I formed at LBS was with Nicole Narcizo from São Paulo, Brazil. We connected even before setting foot in London, through a pre-college networking event organized by the student association. From our shared love of food and dancing, we quickly hit it off. Over time, Nicole inspired me to undertake a Global Experience, a mandatory five-day, faculty-led course where students travel to different parts of the world to solve real-world business problems. I headed to Brazil. Here, I learned from the similarities and dissimilarities between Brazil and India.

Through our friendship, I realized that networking at LBS isn’t just about professional opportunities – it’s about opening yourself up to new cultures, ideas, and experiences. On my first day in Brazil, Nicole’s husband Wei (not an MBA student) went out of his way to have breakfast with me and introduce me to the local culture.

This is not an isolated moment. I have had similar experiences with Yuji Suzuki, an MBA student from Japan. Yuji and his wife Kie (again not an MBA student) have been my cheerleaders from the very beginning, making this experience not just a learning journey but a deeply personal one. From the start, their kindness and openness have made me feel welcomed, especially in a foreign environment.

One memorable experience was when Yuji and Kie invited me to a traditional sushi dinner at their apartment. It was a beautiful moment of cultural exchange – an invitation not just into their home, but into an important part of their heritage. Kie, a warm and gracious host, shared stories of her upbringing and the deep significance of the Japanese culture. I found myself fascinated by the careful attention to detail and the values of mindfulness and respect that was carefully embedded in the gesture. Be it baking me a cake for my birthday or sending me a Christmas and New Year card, their gestures have made me feel part of their family.

The bonds I have formed are rooted in human connection, in shared moments of kindness and cultural exchange, and in a collective desire to learn and grow together. And much like my friendship with Nicole, my time spent with Yuji and Kie continues to shape my LBS experience in ways I could never have anticipated.

EMBRACING DIFFERENCE IN PERSONALITIES

Lastly, there’s Snehal, one of my closest friends at LBS. Snehal and I are two very different people – if she is the head of a coin, I am the tail. She’s a social butterfly, whereas I am a quiet observer. Yet, there is so much I have learned from this amazing human. She is the quintessential example of someone who has mastered the art of balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal passions. She’s always working on something – whether it’s leading the Retail Luxury Consumer (RLC) Club or creating content for the Student Association as a Marketing ExCo. Her ability to juggle everything with grace has taught me the importance of time management and discipline.

CHANNELLING THE POWER OF ALLIES AND WOMEN

Alice Choe and Stephane Cote, a PhD student and Professor respectively at the Rotman Business School, conducted research on reasons why FLII (First Generation Low and Intermediate Income) students are sometimes excluded. Their recent study highlights how FLII individuals are considered less competent, hence excluded in organizations. As a FLII at LBS, I have been fortunate to have had a strong support system – cheerleaders who have not only encouraged me but also helped me break through the barriers I didn’t even know existed.

Take my fellow MBA student Jagteshwar Singh (or Jag, as we lovingly call him). He once defended me against mansplaining, when I was not even aware that mansplaining was happening. Jag was not alone in supporting me. My girl gang has been a constant source of strength, empowering me in ways that I never imagined I would need. I remember participating in the group dance at LBS’s annual student cultural fest “Tattoo”. My girl gang not only stood in the front row recording, but cheered me on with so much energy and enthusiasm that it gave me the confidence to shine on stage.  They are more than just friends – they are my biggest supporters, reminding me of my strength and potential, even when I doubted myself.

Through their influence, I have come to understand that leadership is not about asserting dominance. Rather, it is about creating an environment where everyone is encouraged to grow and bring their best selves forward.

FOSTERING CONNECTIONS ON CAMPUS AS A FLII STUDENT

Coming from a culture where relationships are built on trust and mutual respect, I found it difficult at first to view people as “networks” in the traditional sense. However, over time, I learned to embrace the concept of networking in a more authentic way. Here are my two cents on how to build and maintain meaningful relationships on campus:

Be authentic: People can sense your authenticity. When I joined the MBA, many people warned me that I wouldn’t survive the socializing scenes as a teetotaller. Yet, my peers accepted me – chilled water in hand – because they saw me for who I am, not for my actions.

Seek value beyond professional benefits: Campus life is a great way to expose yourself to varied cultures and perspectives. Networking isn’t only about exchanging business cards or discussing career goals – it’s also about being open to new experiences and learning from people who may not share your background. Connect with people beyond the professional interests and build relationships that are rooted in shared interests and mutual respect.

Offer help: It’s our human nature to form reciprocal relationships. The simple act of giving can help create foundation for strong, lasting bonds.

Listen more: Be an active listener as people appreciate being heard. At a personal level, knowing your peers’ personal journey could inspire and connect you in ways that you didn’t expect.

Show up: Being present during pivotal moments for your peers – whether academic or personal – is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to foster strong connections.

Success doesn’t happen in isolation – it requires a village. Throughout my MBA, I’ve come to realize that it’s not just about what you achieve; it’s about who you achieve it with, and I’m grateful to have had such a strong, diverse village at LBS by my side.

 

 

Divya is an MBA 2025 at London Business School and a Laidlaw Scholar. She is an accomplished data analytics professional with 8+ years of work experience, including 4 years at Google. She is one of the first people in her city and the first person in her family to pursue an education abroad. She strongly believes in equity and advocates for DEI at college and work. To know more, check her LinkedIn profile here.

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