Pascal Chabaneix

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

“I was working in middle management and felt ready for something more – ideally a senior position in a large international company. I also consider starting my own business someday, and I knew I needed stronger leadership and business foundations to do either.

My wife and I decided to do our MBAs at the same time and ideally in the same city, so we visited several schools in Europe during a trip in 2022. When we visited RSM, a friend studying here showed us around. She explained the international culture, the programme’s sustainability focus, and the academic structure – and it just clicked. The international student body, the city, the focus on personal leadership and the chance of scholarships all made RSM a natural choice for us.”

2. How is the MBA preparing you to do business in a world in motion?

“Growing up with a flight attendant mother meant I travelled a lot early in life, which exposed me to diverse cultures and ways of thinking. Doing an international MBA is similar – but this time, the world comes to you. RSM brings together people from so many backgrounds and viewpoints. You’re constantly working with classmates who think differently, which forces you to collaborate, adapt, and find the best way forward as a team. That’s essential in today’s globalised world.”

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

“It’s a tough year – definitely not a sabbatical! But it’s also been a balanced experience. RSM lets you grow not only through studying but through the life you build around it. Academically, I’ve learned where I shine and where I need to improve. I struggle more with numbers-based subjects, but I love anything that requires leadership or communication. Every day is about self-awareness: doing better, adapting, and growing. The biggest internal shift for me was learning to slow down and reflect. Everyone has their own background and struggles, and sometimes we’re too caught up in our own pace to see it. RSM helped me become more empathetic – not just as a classmate but as a future leader.”

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

“Arriving in December, gave us a head start settling in in Rotterdam – which helped a lot. I’d lived in Belgium before, so adjusting to Dutch culture wasn’t a huge shock, but it was still intense. Speaking English 24/7, meeting so many new people, and facing the cold, grey winter all at once – it’s a lot. But the rhythm gets easier. I’ve mastered cycling, I can do it with my hands in my pockets now!”

5. What has been the most challenging assignment or course during the MBA? 

“Definitely the Quantitative Platform for Business. Statistics has never been my strong suit – even during my bachelor degree. It’s very objective: either your answer is right or it’s not. That’s tough for someone who thrives more in interpersonal and leadership contexts. But I really liked the teacher, and that helped keep me motivated.”

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

“PLD was actually one of the reasons I chose RSM. I come from a country where strong leadership is sometimes lacking, so I really value any chance to grow in that area. Through PLD and leadership workshops, I’ve been pushed to reflect on who I want to be – not just professionally but as a person. I want to be the kind of leader people trust and turn to, not just for business decisions but for support.”

7. How are you planning to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals through business – now and in the future?

“The Netherlands sets a great example in sustainability – especially in transportation. I’ve been biking everywhere since December, and I’ve adopted other habits too: shorter showers, recycling, buying second-hand clothes. It’s become a mindset shift. One early class asked how many planet Earths we’d need if everyone lived like us. My result was 2.5 planets. That was a wake-up call. Now, sustainability isn’t an add-on for me – it’s part of daily life. I hope to carry this mindset into any company I work with.”

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

“Be realistic. An MBA won’t magically land you a senior role the day after graduation. Know your goals, talk to alumni, and understand what’s achievable. Also, choose your programme and city wisely. Some people love their school but struggle with the location – and vice versa. Find a balance.

And save up. Financially and emotionally, you’ll want to experience this year fully. That means you need funds to join events, travel a bit, and engage with your cohort and culture. It’s not just a study programme – it’s a life experience.”

9. Has your MBA journey changed your outlook on your career?

“Yes. I still want to work in sales or commercial roles, and I have strong people skills, speak three languages, and enjoy negotiation. But this year showed me that soft skills alone aren’t enough. I need to strengthen my technical skills too – finance, accounting, analytics. Lifelong learning is key. The MBA isn’t the final step; it’s part of a longer journey.”

10. What does the future hold for you?

“I don’t know exactly, but I feel much more prepared now. I’d love to stay in Europe for at least a year and work for a global company – possibly in transportation or infrastructure. Peru needs better mobility systems, and I’d like to bring some of what I’ve learned here back home.

Maybe I’ll start a business someday. But right now, I want to be a strong leader who remembers the people who helped me get here – and find ways to give back. I want to use this experience to become the best version of myself and help others do the same.”