"Unique and remarkable" are the two words that effortlessly encapsulate my unforgettable experience during my inaugural week at HSG MBA. The start of our MBA journey was marked by an inspiring meeting with my diverse cohort hailing from every corner of the world. From the beginning, it felt like I was embarking on a world tour, traversing the rich tapestry of cultures and stories that my peers brought with them. Beyond this, the unwavering support and guidance of our entire program MBA team fostered an environment that truly felt like home. The inclusion of a scavenger hunt on the first day was a delightful surprise. It allowed us to immerse ourselves in the rich history of Saint Gallen, creating a sense of connection with the city that would be our home for the coming year. The pinnacle of the week was our excursion to Arenenberg, where team-building activities not only provided endless fun but also deep educational value, prompting introspection and personal growth. Additionally, the engaging business game held in Hofkeller served as a testament to the innovative and unconventional teaching methods employed by the HSG MBA program, blending enjoyment with real-world applications. 

As the week came to a close, we engaged in further team bonding and self-reflection, setting the foundation for the year ahead. The sessions on personal growth, led by fantastic career caches Luca Allaria and Dominique Gobat, imparted valuable lessons on enhancing self-awareness and managing our emotions to the best of our abilities. Additionally, the session on diversity and inclusion, led by our program director Amanda Shantz, encouraged us to reflect on our biases, emphasizing that we can collaborate effectively toward shared objectives and achieve success together regardless of our backgrounds. The opportunity to connect with alumni over dinner was a testament to the strong sense of community at HSG MBA. Despite just beginning our journey, it felt as if I had known my fellow students for years, a testament to the warm and welcoming atmosphere fostered by the program.

If my first week serves as any indication of what the forthcoming 12 months have in store, then I can hardly contain my excitement to embark on this transformative journey.