By Ratih Istiqomah, MIFFT2025
It’s surprising how much can happen in just a few months. When I started at London Business School, I had my expectations—learning new skills, connecting with people from around the world, discovering passions—but I couldn’t have guessed how the journey would unfold. Five months in, I can say LBS has been more than just an academic journey. It’s been a journey full of firsts, growth, and discovery.
Firsts
My journey at LBS has been filled with many “firsts”, from my first time studying and interacting in such a diverse environment to my first experience of living far away from home.
Another notable “first” was working on a group project with teammates from different countries. Each of them brought their own perspective, shaped by their unique experiences and cultures. I learned how to deal with differences, express my thoughts openly, and keep going no matter how tough things got. It wasn’t always easy, but the experience taught me valuable lessons about collaboration and mutual respect.
I remember meeting my fellow Masters in Finance (MiF) students for the first time at the BBQ party. It was a bit overwhelming—so many people, so many conversations—but I managed to connect with a few classmates and hear their stories. Networking events like this weren’t familiar to me, so it took some time to get used to introducing myself repeatedly. It was fascinating to learn about the variety of backgrounds my classmates came from and to realise how diverse our group truly was.
Living abroad for the first time has also been a defining part of my journey. Having grown up in Jakarta, Indonesia, moving to London felt like stepping into a whole new world. I spent months preparing—researching accommodation, budgeting, and finding flatmates, but nothing could prepare me fully for the reality of being in a new city, far from home. London is vibrant and full of opportunities to explore. I’ve come to love the city’s diversity, and it’s starting to feel like a second home.
Growth
Studying at LBS has been an ongoing process of learning and adapting, both academically and personally.
Academically, the courses are rigorous and demand focus. Investments was an area I wasn’t deeply familiar with, so it took some extra effort to get comfortable with the material. The support from classmates made a huge difference. My friends were always willing to discuss cases and issues outside class, and studying together for exams was incredibly helpful. LBS also offers electives closely aligned with my professional role as a researcher at Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation, where my work involves managing distressed and failed financial institutions and ensuring financial stability. Courses like ‘Distressed Investing,’ ‘Mergers, MBOs & Other Corp. Reorgs,’ and ‘Managing Corporate Turnarounds’ are expected to provide practical insights and fresh perspectives.
On a personal level, I’ve grown in ways I didn’t anticipate. Group assignments, which are a core part of the curriculum, taught me how to collaborate effectively with people who think and work differently than I do. While it wasn’t always smooth sailing, the moments of figuring things out together with my teammates have been some of the most rewarding experiences. I’ve also learned a lot from my teammates—their resilience, bravery to challenge themselves, and passion for what they do inspired me to push my own boundaries.
Reflecting on my own journey, I realise how much the encouragement and guidance of others helped me settle into life at LBS. As someone who has gone through the process, I enjoy sharing my experiences with others who are about to start theirs. Being a student ambassador gives me the chance to listen to their challenges and share practical advice based on my experiences.
Discovery
The discoveries I’ve made at LBS go far beyond the classroom. One of the things I appreciate most is how much I’ve learned from my peers. Coming from a public sector background, I initially wondered how my experiences would align with those of my classmates. My role, primarily focused on managing failed financial institutions which felt quite niche compared with the corporate backgrounds of many of my peers. I quickly realised that everyone brings unique insights to the table. Conversations with classmates from various industries have not only broadened my understanding of financial practices, but also provide new perspectives on the work I do.
Outside the classroom, I’ve discovered the importance of balance. Exploring other cities with friends, trying new sports, attending football matches, or celebrating Día de los Muertos are all truly precious and unforgettable moments. These experiences remind me that growth isn’t only about what you achieve, but also about the connections you build and the differences you learn to appreciate.
I’ve discovered more about myself. Living and studying in such a dynamic environment has challenged me to think about my goals and what difference I can make, both professionally and personally. It’s a journey of self-awareness that I’m still navigating, but one that I’m grateful for.
A Closing Reflection
LBS isn’t just a school; it’s a place that is transforming me. It challenges me to grow, pushes me to adapt, and surrounds me with people who inspire me to be better. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s one that’s been worth every step.