Born in the United States and raised between France and Ecuador, Alexander, MBA class of 2025, has built a multicultural perspective that guided his decision to join the MBA at EMLV. In this interview, he looks back on his experience at the school and in Paris-La Défense.
His journey is shaped by global exposure, accredited training, and academic support that characterise the full-time MBA program in Paris.
Choosing the EMLV MBA: accreditation, international outlook and location
Alexander grew up navigating diverse cultures and languages, which shaped his interest in international environments.
When exploring options for postgraduate studies, accreditation became a central element in his decision-making. AACSB and AMBA, indicators of international academic standards and programme quality, accredit the MBA at EMLV.
The programme’s localisation also played a role. Delivered on the Paris-La Défense campus, the MBA offers access to a major European business district, its corporate partners and its multicultural ecosystem. For Alexander, this environment created the conditions to build new perspectives both academically and professionally.
Learning in Paris: an international city and a diverse student community
Living and studying in Paris encouraged Alexander to explore a wide range of cultural experiences. Museums, monuments and the city’s heritage offered opportunities to understand the French context while building new networks.
The diversity of the cohort and the faculty structure contributed to this exposure, with international students and professors bringing different viewpoints to classroom discussions.
Participation in student activities, clubs and the Life Committee also formed part of his experience. These interactions enabled him to expand his network and engage with students from France and abroad.
Building a professional project through networking and internships
Internships are a key component of the MBA program. Alexander shares that networking played a crucial role in his search for an internship in France.
Events held at the school, meetings organised on campus, and informal conversations both inside and outside EMLV provided valuable opportunities. One of his contacts ultimately connected him with the company where he completed his internship.
Preparing for the French job market required several adjustments. Alexander adapted his CV to local standards and attended workshops offered by the Career Centre.
These sessions supported his understanding of recruitment processes and helped him prepare his application materials. Throughout the programme, learning from peers in cross-functional teams also strengthened his professional skills.
International mobility and living in France: practical considerations
Alexander highlights several practical points relevant to international students preparing for their arrival in France.
Administrative documents, visas, and internship applications require anticipation. He also considers engagement in student associations a way to meet French students and integrate into campus life.
Beyond the academic dimension, travel within France allowed him to discover new regions and understand the country’s cultural diversity. These experiences complemented his academic path and deepened his understanding of the international business environment.
An MBA to support an entrepreneurial ambition
Alexander joined the programme to prepare for a future business project. The structure of the MBA, its courses, and the faculty’s support guided him in developing this ambition.
The international dimension of the school, combined with its links to corporate partners and the multicultural environment of Paris, provided a framework to explore new opportunities.
The MBA at EMLV is firmly committed to supporting international learners through academic excellence, a dynamic intercultural environment, and close connections to the European business landscape.
Alexander’s journey encompasses the essential elements of an international experience: professional growth, cross-cultural education, and a long-term entrepreneurial aspiration.
