The supportive MBA community at Vlerick Business School fosters both personal and professional growth. Ioana-Florentina Augello shares her journey of discovery, highlighting the approachable professors, and the diverse, collaborative network that enhances the overall MBA experience.
Joining an MBA community creates many moments of discovery. For Ioana-Florentina Augello, an MBA student at Vlerick Business School, these moments come as she learns from approachable professors among her diverse classmates.
“It’s all about finding those pieces of the puzzle and saying, ‘Wow, the world is so big. There is so much knowledge out there, and I knew so little,’” she shares. (00:17)
Originally from Romania and having spent time in the Czech Republic, Ioana now calls Belgium home. When she was ready to start her MBA she wanted to find the best school to connect with the local business environment.
“The choice was such an easy one,” she says. “So here I am, Vlerick it is.” (00:44)
A standout feature of Vlerick for Ioana is the interactive and hands-on learning atmosphere. Unlike traditional rote learning, which focuses on memorization through repetition, she values the meaningful learning approach in her program.
Through this type of learning, she has the opportunity to research and understand more deeply. “I always want to understand more, research a bit more. This was my perfect environment,” she says. (00:55)
The support and expertise of the faculty have played a significant role in Ioana’s academic growth.
At Vlerick, the professors play a crucial role in creating a dynamic and inclusive learning atmosphere. They research pressing issues and bring that knowledge to the classroom. And despite their extensive experience, they foster a sense of equality among students.
“The professors are really making us feel that they are one of us,” Ioana notes. (01:10)
The supportive and collaborative nature of the faculty encourages students to voice their opinions and engage in meaningful discussions.
“You could have a professor with 30 years of experience. They know inside out what they’re saying,” she says, ”Yet they treat you like an equal.” (01:15)
This method of engaging with students enhances the learning experience and instills confidence and excitement. “For me, that feels amazing. I feel like flying every day. It’s a wonderful feeling,” Ioana says. (01:30)
And it’s not just the professors that are there to support students. The Career Services team is available to provide tips and tricks for navigating the competitive job market. Their holistic approach includes organizing numerous events and networking opportunities to connect students with potential employers.
As a whole, Vlerick fosters a vibrant and supportive community whose key pillar is the diverse MBA student community.
One of the most enriching aspects of Ioana’s MBA experience at Vlerick is the diversity within the cohort.
With students from multiple different nationalities, the program offers a unique opportunity to learn from various cultural perspectives. “It’s really a very diverse group, and it just brings us together,” Ioana shares. (01:39)
This diversity fosters a self-discovery journey that goes beyond academic learning. “It is a self-discovery journey, but it’s an amazing one,” Ioana reflects. (01:42)
Interactions with peers from different backgrounds enhance the overall educational experience and prepare students for the global business environment. For Ioana, the social aspects of the MBA program are equally important.
“Being able to interact with others, go to events, do small fun things, or be part of special networks is so close to my heart,” she says. (01:53)
These experiences not only make the MBA journey enjoyable but also help in building lifelong connections and friendships. As Ioana approaches the end of her program, she feels a sense of gratitude and nostalgia.
“I’m really sad that all these beautiful things will finish in a few months. So, I can only be grateful for what I have today and live it every single day,” Ioana concludes. (02:05)
For prospective students considering an MBA, Vlerick Business School offers a supportive environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
For more information about the MBA program at Vlerick Business School contact a student ambassador.
