“surrounded by classmates from all over the world, across industries and professions I’d never encountered” – Ihtishaam Malik
Over halfway through their first term, our MBA2027 class are getting stuck into all things London Business School. We sat down with them to ask how they’re finding the programme, their highlights and what drew them to the School in the first place. Read on for some insider insight on the MBA.
Maria Jesus Romero – Uruguayan / Italian
What were the key factors in your decision to attend LBS?
I chose LBS because of its strong focus on global business, its diverse and vibrant community, and the opportunities it offers to explore social and environmental impact through technology and innovation. With over five years of experience in e-commerce at Despegar and Mercado Libre, I was looking for an MBA that would help me strengthen my strategic and leadership skills while shifting my focus toward roles that create positive social and environmental outcomes. LBS’s flexible curriculum, global reach, and student-led initiatives (like the Energy & Environment Club and Treks in Tech Club) felt like the perfect environment to deepen my expertise, expand my network, and explore the areas I am most passionate about.
What has been a highlight of your first term at LBS?
One of the highlights of my first term has been getting actively involved in student leadership and engaging with projects at the intersection of business, technology, and sustainability. Serving as an ExCo Member for the Global Energy Summit, an ExCo Member of Treks in Tech Club, and a Consultant at ImpactCap for TECHO has allowed me to connect with peers, learn from industry leaders, and contribute directly to initiatives that align with my goals. What has made this experience even more special, though, are the people. I’ve met classmates from all over the world, each bringing unique stories, ideas, and energy. Building these friendships and learning from such diverse perspectives has been one of the most rewarding parts of my LBS journey so far.
Denira Coleman – South African / Greek
What were the key factors in your decision to attend LBS?
A multitude of factors drew me to LBS; the incredibly accomplished, diverse, student-led community, the wide range of electives and fantastic professors, the Careers Centre which offers coaching and recruitment opportunities, and the recognition that having an LBS MBA brings. Additionally, one key part of the LBS MBA curriculum that stood out to me is its use of experiential learning. Throughout the programme there are numerous opportunities to take a practical approach to the concepts you learn in class and see how they apply in the real world. Initiatives such as the LondonCAP project, the Entrepreneurship Summer School, and the Global Experience exemplify this. Coming from a non-traditional business background, gaining real, hands-on experience and practical, tested knowledge was essential for me. Beyond the classroom, LBS’s location in London (a diverse cultural and professional hub that holds space for everyone) means that the school attracts a wide range of senior business professionals, thought leaders, recruiters, and investors who are easily accessible for future collaboration. LBS offers everything I looked for in an MBA programme: rigorous academics, experiential learning, a supportive community, and access to one of the world’s most diverse business ecosystems.
What has been a highlight of your first term at LBS?
A highlight of my first term has been the incredible sense of community and collaboration that defines the LBS experience. Coming from an untraditional background, I was initially unsure of what to expect, but I’ve been amazed by how open, curious, and supportive my classmates are. The diversity of perspectives in every classroom discussion has been inspiring, and I’ve learned as much from my peers as from the faculty. A particularly memorable moment was taking part in the business simulations, which condense multiple financial quarters into a few hours and challenge you to make strategic decisions under pressure, a true taste of real-world business dynamics. These experiences have not only strengthened my confidence but also shown me how the LBS approach combines academics with practical learning. I’ve also enjoyed engaging with student clubs and events, which emulate the same excellence and inclusivity that initially drew me to LBS.
Ihtishaam Malik – British
What were the key factors in your decision to attend LBS?
When I first thought about pursuing an MBA, I knew I wanted a place that would challenge me, push me to grow and open doors to opportunities I couldn’t access on my own. However, as a father of a toddler with another little one on the way, I also knew I needed to be present for my family, showing up for my children while showing them what’s possible. That made London the perfect location: I could dive into one of the world’s best business schools without uprooting my family, proving to myself and my children that you can chase ambitious goals and still be there for the people who matter most.
Of course, the prestige of LBS was a huge factor too. Coming into the process, I doubted myself more than a few times, but I knew that if I wanted to take my career to the next level, there was no better place in Europe to do it.
Finally, there was the long-term vision: relocating to the Middle East for future career opportunities. LBS’ incredible network and global reach make it a springboard to roles and connections I couldn’t have accessed otherwise. For me, the decision wasn’t just about an MBA, it was about building a foundation for the life and career I want, without compromising on family, growth or global perspective.
What has been a highlight of your first term at LBS?
The highlight of my first term at LBS has been the people. Having spent my career in London, which is already incredibly diverse, I wasn’t sure how much more international exposure I could get, but LBS completely exceeded my expectations. Being surrounded by classmates from all over the world, across industries and professions I’d never encountered, has been a breath of fresh air. You genuinely make friendships here that feel real, because almost everyone is navigating the same mix of excitement, nerves and ambition.
Another unexpected highlight has been coming back to studies and academia. I haven’t been in full-time education since university, and after eight years in the corporate world, I’d almost forgotten the thrill of diving into a subject, exercising old part of my brain and discovering just how much I could still learn. It’s not just the knowledge itself but the creativity, curiosity, and confidence that come from pushing your boundaries and realising you can do it. For me, that mix of intellectual challenge and personal growth has been one of the most rewarding parts of the MBA so far.
American
What were the key factors in you deciding LBS?
I chose LBS because of their welcoming and inclusive culture, the opportunity to learn from globally diverse classmates from over 60 nations, the school’s focus on leadership development, and strategic placement in London as a global climate and business hub.
What has been a highlight of your first term at LBS?
I have jumped headfirst into the club ecosystem here at LBS to meet new people, develop my leadership skills, and help fellow students interested in climate and social impact careers. This fall, I served as Chief Marketing & Sales Officer for the Global Energy Summit, the largest annual event organized by the Energy & Environment Club. I am also a Chief of Staff for the Social Impact Club, and a member of the Student Association focusing on sustainability careers. On the non-professional side, I am learning to play touch rugby with the LBS women’s team.
Dutch
What were the key factors in you deciding LBS?
The key factors in choosing LBS were the flexibility of the curriculum, the LBS community, and the school’s location in the centre of London.
With previous degrees in Econometrics and Actuarial Science and experience in Data & AI consulting, I knew I didn’t want a programme where everything was predetermined for me. I was looking for a school where I could intentionally build on what I already know while focusing on the areas I want to grow into. LBS offered exactly that: a strong core foundation paired with the freedom to tailor your academic path through a wide selection of core options and electives. That ability to take ownership of my learning was a major factor in my decision.
I was also drawn to the energy of the LBS community. Even during a campus visit months before applying, I met prospective students whom I stayed in touch with, and I immediately felt a sense of openness and welcome. I wanted to be part of a cohort that is globally diverse, comes from a wide range of professional backgrounds, is curious, and is genuinely supportive, and I found that at LBS.
Finally, the location brings everything together. Being in the heart of Europe’s most dynamic business hub creates constant exposure to companies, industries, and ideas. Whether through company talks, conferences across the city, or experiential learning with London-based firms through initiatives like LondonCAP, you are truly where the magic happens. It’s also simply a great place to live, explore, and build friendships alongside the academic experience.
Indian
What were the key factors in you deciding LBS?
I was certain I wanted a longer MBA program. Most European MBAs last about a year, but coming from a non-traditional background, I knew I wanted to give myself as much time as possible to explore, learn, and grow. That’s where LBS’s program flexibility really stood out to me. I liked that I could decide when to graduate and tailor my schedule to suit my goals.
Because I can design my own timetable, I also have the freedom to make the most of my time outside the classroom. The school’s central London location opens up plenty of opportunities during term time. I’m hoping to take up an internship next term to gain hands-on experience here in the city.
Lastly, having family in London was another important factor in my decision; it made the idea of moving here feel both exciting and comforting.
What has been a highlight of your first term with us?
I don’t think I can pick just one highlight! One moment I was dancing to Bollywood songs with classmates from around the world at the Diwali Ball, the next I was helping organise Battle of the Streams, and then brainstorming a trade idea for finance class with my study group. As I think about it, it’s incredible how much has happened in just three months.
If I had to choose, though, Battle of the Streams stands out. As one of the Student Association officers in the Sports and Clubs pillar, I helped organise the event, which took place on 8 November. We started planning in mid-September and had close to 800 participants from across different programs at LBS -making it one of the biggest events at LBS. It was heart-warming to see all our efforts come to life and watch classmates bond over sports.
Another highlight – this isn’t a particular event, but it deserves an honorary mention: the diverse community at LBS. It’s not just the different nationalities, but also the variety of work experiences, backgrounds, and worldviews. The diversity in thought and perspectives adds incredible depth to every discussion and interaction inside and outside the classroom. I think it’s what truly makes the LBS experience so rich and inclusive.