Scholarships and Success at INSEAD: Thijs Becker MIM’23

In a world where uncertainty is becoming the norm and global challenges are ever-emerging, businesses must adapt and lead with responsibility. This conviction is at the heart of INSEAD’s mission to cultivate leaders who can transform business and society. The INSEAD Master's in Management (MIM), a 14 to 16-month programme, embodies this mission with its innovative, problem-solving approach, empowering the next generation of agile, innovative individuals to make a positive impact in today's world.  

As the first MIM student featured in our Impact Stories series, Thijs Becker offers a unique perspective on the programme. One of the key highlights of our discussion was the profound impact of scholarships in providing access to the transformative education INSEAD offers. 

Thijs’s journey to INSEAD started with a passion for international business, discovered during a gap year in China between high school and university. He pursued an international business degree at Groningen University in the Netherlands but sought a more diverse and challenging environment, leading him to INSEAD. “I wanted to be in an international environment where I could connect with people from all walks of life,” he shared.  

The conversation naturally steered towards the topic of scholarships and their impact. Thijs emphasized that without the financial support from a scholarship, his decision to attend INSEAD might have been different. The scholarship he received covered half of his tuition, alleviating significant financial pressure and making it feasible for him to accept INSEAD’s offer. 

The importance of scholarships extends beyond financial relief; they democratise access to education, allowing talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to join prestigious programs. Thijs noted, “I believe the rising cost of higher education is a major concern, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds or without employer support for a MIM. Scholarships can open doors, making a MIM accessible and allowing these individuals, with their unique perspectives and valuable contributions, to enrich our community.” 

“INSEAD is not just an academic institution; it’s a community that brings together people, cultures, and ideas to create businesses. This unique blend fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, setting INSEAD apart as a truly exceptional environment for innovation and collaboration.” 

Reflecting on his time at INSEAD, Thijs underscored the connections, and the sense of belonging fostered by the community. He believes that these relationships, along with the INSEAD alumni network, are the most significant long-term benefits of the program. “The courses are excellent, but what you’ll reflect on 40 years from now are the connections you’ve built,” he stated. Thijs’s advice to future MIM students is to embrace the community and actively engage with peers and alumni. 

His story highlights the transformative power of scholarships and the enduring value of the INSEAD community, proving that the investment in education goes far beyond the classroom. To continue empowering talented individuals like Thijs, it is vital to support scholarships. By contributing to scholarships, we are not just alleviating financial burdens; we are investing in the future leaders who will drive positive change in our world.