How to get an MBA abroad: Amar Dhesi’s story at IE Business School

4 min read

Amar Dhesi didn’t start his career journey planning to work or study internationally. But when he began to explore university options outside of the UK, he realized that studying an MBA abroad could open his worldview and job prospects. This was the first step on a path that took him to Madrid and IE Business School. He’s now to working in sustainable energy at Vestas in Copenhagen.

Here, Amar shares how his experiences at IE Business School helped shape his global mindset, expanded his personal and professional horizons and primed him to thrive in an interconnected world.

Could you tell us how you ended up in your current role in Copenhagen?

“I currently work in Copenhagen, Denmark, at Vestas, a global leader in wind turbine manufacturing. I joined in January 2023, and my role is within the commercial strategy area of their service business. Moving to Copenhagen was a leap of faith—I didn’t know anyone here, but the opportunity to work in renewable energy and live in the EU was too exciting to pass up. Before this, I worked in London for a startup called Hugo Energy, where I managed projects and helped launch an energy app that connects to smart meters to promote energy efficiency.”

What motivated you to join IE Business School?

“I started my International MBA at IE Business School in September 2019. IE Business School stood out because of its diverse environment and global reputation. What I didn’t know at the time was how the world would change in 2020, and how that would affect my experience in Madrid. Transitioning to online learning during the lockdowns and then back to the classroom afterward was a big challenge, but it also strengthened my adaptability.”

How has your international experience influenced your personal and professional growth?

“I had never lived overseas before going to IE Business School, though I had traveled a bit. Madrid sparked a new dimension for me—it made me realize that moving abroad could open up incredible opportunities. Since then, I’ve lived in Boston, returned to London, and now reside in Copenhagen.”

“That has helped me build relationships within my professional career and adapt to my role working with different nationalities as well. Understanding cultural nuances, from humor to work styles, has helped me succeed in an international workplace where I interact with people from all over the world.”

Do you think your experiences have helped you cultivate a global mindset?

“Absolutely. Living and working in multiple countries has taught me the value of diversity, both professionally and personally. At IE Business School I learned to embrace new perspectives, which has made me more open to stepping outside my comfort zone. Whether it’s taking a leap of faith to move to a new place without knowing anyone, or trying out new experiences, or putting myself out there to meet new people, I have gained a lot of confidence and freedom. It helped me develop that global mindset of not feeling that I’m limited or boxed into one place.”

What skills did you gain here that you use in your professional and personal life?

“One skill came from the social aspect of Spanish culture. Living in Madrid fosters a very social way of living, and that has definitely helped me put myself out there more. When I later moved to different cities, I felt more confident to take risks, meet new people and build a network.”

“For example, I worked at an engineering company that involved people from a lot of different nationalities. There’s a stereotype that engineers are not very sociable or easy-going—of course, this is not true for all engineers, but it’s the stereotype. So I decided to start a football team within the company, and it was really rewarding to see how many people not only participated, but also socialized with other people from different areas. I don’t know that I would have had the confidence to do something like that before my experience at IE Business School.”

How did your time at IE Business School help you define your purpose?

“I would say that it helped me discover a lot about myself personally. I made a lot of mistakes during my time there, which allowed me to learn and grow as a person. At first, it was a challenge being in a new city with new people. But as I reflect back, I see that the times when I’ve been the most uncomfortable are when I’ve grown the most as a person. That’s something you don’t necessarily see in the moment, but you always realize after the fact. 

“My experience at IE Business School taught me that every risk I take, whether it’s professionally or personally, helps build me in a really positive way. Of course, there’s a part of me that doesn’t want to take risks or face difficult moments, but at the same time, I know that these things help me develop professionally and personally. So I appreciate anything that comes along this journey now, because challenges can end up being your best moments in the long run.”

Study with us at IE Business School

Considering he wasn’t even contemplating studying or working abroad until he discovered IE Business School, Amar’s journey has been remarkable. We have no doubt he’ll do great things, and look forward to hearing about them.

If you’re interesting in studying an MBA abroad, IE Business School should be top of your list. The International MBA abroad helps you refine your skills, clarify your career path, and align your goals with a deeper purpose. At IE Business School, you’ll receive personalized guidance to close knowledge gaps, boost your potential, and thrive in a fast-changing world. Gain the tools to lead with impact, shape your future, and transform both personally and professionally.