Thomas Bodin

INSEAD

“Husband, father, former Army officer, now conquering new frontiers at INSEAD!”

Hometown: Paris, France

Fun Fact About Yourself: I can assure everyone in that the Château de Fontainebleau is an exceptional venue for celebrations. My cohort of the Saint-Cyr Military Academy organized our gala there, and it was truly unforgettable. I can’t wait to experience it again!

Undergraduate School and Major: Saint-Cyr Military Academy – Mechanical Engineering

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: French Army, officer

INSEAD is one of the most culturally and professionally diverse MBA programs in the world. How do you see these global perspectives enhancing the value of your business education over the next year? During my ten years in the French Army, I had the privilege of working with individuals from various cultures and backgrounds, both in France and overseas. This diversity allowed us to break free from conventional patterns and develop innovative solutions. I am confident that the diverse environment at INSEAD will similarly enrich my learning experience, providing me with unique insights and broadening my understanding of global business practices. This exposure will not only enhance my problem-solving skills, but also prepare me to lead effectively in a multicultural business environment.

Why did you choose a one-year program over a two-year program? How do you see an INSEAD MBA giving you an advantage in the marketplace? I opted for a one-year program over a two-year one primarily for its time efficiency. This shorter duration allows me to re-enter the workforce more swiftly and immediately apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the program. This enables the quicker implementation of new strategies and ideas. Additionally, the multicultural environment at INSEAD enhances my cultural competence, enabling me to work effectively in diverse teams and understand global markets. The combination of immediate skill applicability and a robust global network makes an INSEAD MBA an invaluable asset for my career.

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of INSEAD’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The extensive and active alumni network offers invaluable connections and opportunities for mentorship, networking, and career advancement. This network is a crucial asset for long-term career growth. Additionally, the proximity to Paris is very important, as it enables my wife to continue pursuing her career as an officer in the Gendarmerie during my MBA.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at INSEAD? Coming from an unconventional background, I am eager to build a strong foundation through the core courses. Additionally, I am excited about participating in sports clubs like football or rugby, as well as industry clubs such as the Consulting Club or the Sport & Business Club. With so many great options, I anticipate having to make some tough choices and experiencing a bit of FOMO.

What has been your first impression of the INSEAD MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far. Tell us your best INSEAD story so far. Everyone has been incredibly kind, from my interviewers to fellow members of the 25J cohort. I’ve had the opportunity to meet some of them in Paris on several occasions. One particularly memorable moment was when we gathered in the Tuileries Garden, right next to the Louvre. I brought my wife and kids along, and we all had an amazing time!

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: During my ten years in the army and through three overseas operations, I had the opportunity to specialize in a field where human relationships are a priority. I had the privilege of working with extraordinary individuals, each of whom helped me grow in their own way. Beyond the operational results that highlighted our achievements, what I value most are the quality relationships I was able to build.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? For now, I understand that the year is going to be extremely busy, and I won’t be very available for my family. Therefore, I hope to find time to take a vacation with my wife and children!

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into INSEAD’s MBA program? I would advise them not to place too much emphasis on the GMAT or GRE, as these tests constitute only a small portion of the application. Instead, they should focus on showcasing their unique qualities and personal history to the admissions committee. It’s crucial to highlight what makes them stand out as individuals and what they can contribute to the cohort.

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