It’s early morning, the air is still fresh and humid, and the sun is just about to rise. It’s a beautiful day. In the quiet atmosphere of the old port of Ouchy, Lausanne, we smile at each other in anticipation of our ride together. We get on our bicycles and start pedaling. Even though everyone is on their own bike, we are on this journey together.
Getting to know your peers
During the first few kilometers along the lake toward the vineyards of Lavaux, we warm up, finding our rhythm as a group. It’s going to be a long ride with several climbs. Just a few weeks ago, when we first started the MBA program, it felt similar. Most of us were meeting for the first time – strangers navigating unfamiliar terrain. Yet, day by day, we found our rhythm. Now, it feels like we’ve known each other for months or even years.
Collaborating and succeeding
Every climb on a ride is a challenge – your legs burn, your breath quickens, and the summit feels distant. But accepting these challenges will be rewarded – be it a great view from the top or the satisfaction of having succeeded together as a group. Approaching these challenges with others, not as a competition but as a common goal, is much more fun than just by yourself.
No matter which background, tools, or expectations we have as individuals, working as a team and supporting each other leads to incredible results. The better we know each other, the better we can collaborate. In the MBA cohort, we have built the foundation for this since the first day and, as a result, managed to successfully reach new heights together.
Nurturing the relationships
Finally, we made it! Reaching the finish line feels amazing, but sometimes you don’t want the ride to end. Thankfully, our MBA journey is still in full swing, and there’s so much more to experience together. Whether it’s a spontaneous team dinner, a casual sports game, or a sunny afternoon drink, we continue to bond and celebrate these moments. Again, these are the chances to exchange, discuss, and laugh together.
It is still just the beginning of the year, yet I feel that within this short time, we have built incredibly strong relationships. I’m grateful to be part of this ride and look forward to many more shared experiences – learning, growing, and nurturing the friendships that will last far beyond this program.
The road ahead may have its climbs, but with this group by my side, I know we will keep pushing forward – together.
