Alejandra Cabrera

1. Why did you choose to go back to school for an MBA? And why RSM?

“I wanted to expand my mindset and the way I approach work by challenging myself in a broader, international environment. Pursuing an MBA felt like the right step to gain exposure to diverse perspectives – both functional and cultural – and to strengthen my leadership skills. I chose RSM because its curriculum aligns perfectly with my background in product roles. I noticed that RSM takes a strong strategic approach to marketing, which differentiates it from other programmes. I saw this as a great opportunity to deepen my expertise while connecting the dots between my previous roles and the business as a whole.”

2. How is the International Full-time MBA preparing you to do business in an uncertain world?

“It’s helping me become more adaptable and confident when facing change. Working with classmates from different backgrounds has challenged the way I think and make decisions. I’ve learned to analyse situations from multiple perspectives and to find solutions even with limited information. Courses like Strategy and Innovation Ecosystems have taught me how to connect business logic with creativity and a broader perspective, which is key in uncertain and global contexts. Overall, the programme is helping me stay calm, think critically, and act with purpose when things don’t go as planned.”

3. How would you describe your RSM FTMBA experience so far?

“I see the RSM MBA as a safe space for sharing and debate, where I learn not only from professors but also from my peers. It’s a very collaborative environment that pushes me to question assumptions, listen actively, and grow both personally and professionally.”

4. What has been the biggest adjustment for you, while living in Rotterdam or the Netherlands?

“The biggest adjustment has been the food! I really missed Peruvian dishes, so I had to learn how to cook them myself. Luckily, Rotterdam has such an international environment that it’s quite easy to find the ingredients I need. Cooking my own food has become a fun way to feel closer to home while adapting to a new culture.”

5. What has been the most challenging assignment or course during the FTMBA so far? How did it challenge you? 

“The Living Management Project, in which we work as external consultants for a company, was challenging from day one. We had to collaborate with an enterprise client in an industry that was completely new to me, under a tight deadline, and working with teammates from very different backgrounds. It pushed me to adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and make decisions even with limited information. It also helped me grow personally as a leader by giving and receiving feedback constantly and learning to adapt rapidly to keep the team aligned and focused on our goal.”

6. In what way has the Personal Leadership Development (PLD) component of the programme affected you?

“PLD has been a cornerstone of the programme. It has helped me work more effectively in teams, both in the MBA and personally, by encouraging self-reflection and feedback. I’ve gained greater self-awareness and learned to adapt, becoming a more mindful and effective person.”

7. How are you planning to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals through business?

“The programme has made me more aware of how I can contribute to the SDGs in my professional work. I plan to incorporate them into decisions across the entire product lifecycle – both digital and physical – ensuring that sustainability is considered from design to execution. In marketing and technology projects, this means creating solutions that balance business goals with social and environmental impact, while also thinking long-term to align strategy, processes, and outcomes with sustainable development principles.”

8. How have you utilised the alumni network so far?

“Mainly to connect with people who have a similar background to mine. It’s been really helpful to hear about their career paths and how they transitioned into new roles here in the Netherlands. I’ve also learned a lot about the local market and which skills I might need to strengthen, especially since I’m taking a short break from hands-on work right now.”

9. How has the Career Development Team helped you on your journey?

“I’d say the Career Development Team has really helped me gain perspective. Everyone in the programme has different backgrounds and goals, and I really appreciate the context and insights they bring to each conversation. The personalised sessions have also been super helpful – they give me both practical advice and space to practice, which I really value."

10. What advice could you give to people who are considering doing an MBA?

“I’d say: get out of your comfort zone. Be ready to share from your own experience and learn from others – that’s where the real value comes from. How you connect and mix all the information you get is key. And of course, prepare your classes in advance, but keep it simple – unless your day has 48 hours!”

11. Has your MBA journey changed your outlook on what your career might look like after you graduate? If so, how?

“Not exactly, but it has definitely given me a lot of tools to perform better both as a professional and as a leader. I now have more practical ways to think strategically and see the bigger picture. It’s also helped me understand my stakeholders better and find more effective ways to influence them.”

12. What does the future hold for you?

“I’m keeping an open mind, but I see myself continuing to grow in the intersection of marketing and technology. I want to keep building products and experiences that make a real impact, ideally in an international environment where I can keep learning and challenging myself.”