Exploring the MBA Journey with Christian Swager

Q: What is your background and why did you decide to do an MBA? Why at INSEAD?

‘’I graduated in 2014 with an MSc in Systems Engineering and Policy Analysis from Delft University of Technology. After graduation, I joined PwC Strategy& and dove headfirst into the consulting life. My early years were spent traveling across Europe, working on diverse projects ranging from energy to mental health care to plastic waste recycling. Both the on-the-job coaching and formal training allowed me to develop myself rapidly. As you progress in your career, PwC Strategy& offers a wide range of additional development opportunities, tailored to your specific needs, such as externships, summer schools, an MBA program, or a sabbatical to pursue personal goals outside of work.

My personal preference for an MBA arose from the opportunity to take a full year to reflect on my personal and professional growth, while being surrounded by inspiring individuals from around the world. I also wanted to strengthen my financial skills, which I had mostly acquired on the job, and to experiment with my personal leadership style. PwC Strategy& supported my choice and provided me with sponsorship, with the condition that I would rejoin the firm for a certain period after graduation.

Choosing INSEAD was an easy decision for me. It's a top-ranked global MBA program known for its focus on leadership and diversity. The one-year, compact program structure, coupled with a strong emphasis on leadership development and a flexible curriculum with numerous electives, seemed very attractive. However, what truly convinced me were the inspiring stories from INSEAD alumni colleagues.’’

Q: What is your most valuable learning experience from your MBA?

‘’At INSEAD, students are assigned to small groups of 5-6 people to work on core courses, case studies, and assignments during the first semester. My group was incredibly diverse, covering four continents and including backgrounds in architecture, consulting, sales, and IT. Initially, everything was new and exciting, and we were eager to learn from each other's perspectives. However, as courses progressed, deadlines tightened, and recruitment pressure increased, priorities shifted, occasionally leading to friction in the group.

With the help of a coach as part of the INSEAD leadership program, we explored our team dynamics, focusing on individual and group drivers and triggers, and the critical role effective communication plays in overcoming group challenges. This group process provided a mirror for all of us, both individually and collectively, and ultimately made us successful as a team.’’

Q: What skills did you develop during your MBA that are transferable to your work at Strategy&?

‘’At Strategy&, applying new perspectives and creating convincing stories is at the heart of our business. One of the most impactful courses I took at INSEAD was on storytelling. While I knew that a strong presentation delivery was key to success, the professor elevated this skill to a new level. We were challenged to turn ordinary daily events into interesting stories and to enrich already good stories with new angles and techniques to make them memorable. I still use these techniques daily, whether in building relationships with clients, delivering presentations, or even socializing with friends.’’

Q: What has been your most fun experience during your MBA?

‘’There are too many fun experiences to count! One highlight was traveling with over 80 INSEADers to Lebanon, organized by our Lebanese classmates. It felt like we were bumping into each other everywhere in downtown Beirut, just like in Fontainebleau. The Lebanese made great efforts to showcase their country’s diversity, including its food, friendly people, beautiful towns, stunning scenery, and vibrant nightlife.

Another memorable experience was traveling to Bali, Indonesia, with my South African friends during the Rugby World Cup. Although I wasn't initially into rugby, it was impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. Celebrating South Africa's World Cup victory in a tiny beach bar in Bali, surrounded by happy friends and a sun-soaked atmosphere, is a memory I’ll cherish forever.’’

Q: Would you recommend others to pursue an MBA and why?

‘’Absolutely, I would recommend pursuing an MBA. It’s an excellent way to explore your leadership style, build a solid financial foundation, and I return as a more complete consultant at PwC Strategy&. Additionally, the global network of friends and colleagues you build is invaluable, providing connections from New York to Cape Town, to Dubai and beyond.

However, an MBA is not the only path for personal and professional growth. Alternatively, some of my colleagues took secondments or externships, went on exchange to an office abroad or attended a summer school. In most cases, PwC Strategy& provided flexibility and support for consultants to achieve their personal and professional goals. I would encourage everyone to explore all opportunities, and if an MBA is the right fit for you, then go for it!’’