Each week of the ESSEC & Mannheim Executive MBA brings new opportunities, insights, and connections that help shape our participants’ professional and personal growth. Here's a glimpse into one of the program’s action-packed weeks – this time of the Advanced Immersion Module (AIM) “Entrepreneurial & Intrapreneurial Thinking” – through the eyes of Nicolas Berby, Class of 2026. Filled with creative thinking, innovation, and social impact, this elective course gives our participants invaluable tools for navigating entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial challenges.
A Week in the Life of an ESSEC & Mannheim EMBA Participant: Entrepreneurial & Intrapreneurial Thinking
7.4.2025
Exploring entrepreneurship with professors & industry experts
“We had the privilege of being guided during these few days by Professor Jan Lepoutre, who presented us with the cutting-edge methodology on the dos and don'ts in entrepreneurship. We delved into concepts such as lean startup management, effectuation, and the balance between exploration and exploitation. These frameworks are not just academic but serve as practical tools to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and pave the way for success.
Another highlight of the week was the lecture by Miroslav Sviezeny from Qarnot. He shared his unique insights on deep tech, entrepreneurship, and pivoting in an evolving world.”
Roleplay as Venture Capitalists
“Saturday was an exciting day that brought us into the shoes of venture capitalists. With Ordalie and UP&CHARGE, we participated in a realistic roleplay simulating investment and fundraising processes. This immersive and hands-on experience offered a deep understanding of the mechanics behind venture capital and how decisions are made in the world of startup investments.”
Social impact: pitching for a better tomorrow
“Sunday was an inspiring day as we witnessed the candidates pitch their ideas for our cohort's Social Class Project. Many great ideas were put forward – covering various fields of social activities, from women’s shelters to prosthetic hands for disabled people. We look forward to seeing which project will be chosen and the positive change it will bring.”
The ESSEC experience: more than just academics
“While the program is rigorous academically, the value of an Executive MBA lies in the holistic experience it offers. It is not only about immersing oneself in books. It’s also about connecting with others, growing together, and experiencing the diverse backgrounds within the cohort. This intense blending of cultures and personalities leads to daily personal growth and creates memorable moments that will last a lifetime. Our cohort of 48 is the perfect size for fostering close relationships and learning from one another.
"A healthy mind in a healthy body": physical well-being also plays a vital role in our success, and this week, more and more challengers participated in the “ESSEC Daily 100 Push-up Challenge”. A huge shoutout to my team members who completed 500 push-ups with me! In addition to the traditional cohort dinner, it was also a week of culinary exploration for some of us. We had our first vegan experience under the guidance of one of our cohort-mates. She took us out for a delicious (and mind-opening) dinner.”
Expanding horizons: A journey of growth
“The more we dive into the program, the more our horizons expand. It's often said that "the more I know, the less I know," and that sentiment truly rings true. The vast array of knowledge, experiences, and perspectives offered by the program continues to expand our horizons and keep us on our toes. This week was just one of many, serving as a reminder that the ESSEC & Mannheim EMBA is not only about gaining business knowledge – it’s about evolving oneself as an innovative and impactful leader, through the support of the whole cohort.
This was just a week in our journey, and we look forward to how the next will further expand the realm of possibilities!”
