In the second year of her Master in Management programme in France, Shweta Loganathan, class of 2024, reflects on the journey that has shaped her as an international student. Shweta’s journey as an international student in France has been marked by growth, adaptation, and gratitude. Her experience, from the initial anxieties of leaving home to adapting to a new culture and academic environment in Paris, and her tips for foreign students who would like to follow her path.
While the road has not always been easy, it has been gratifying. As she enters her second year, she is determined and enthusiastic to make the most of this academic adventure on foreign soil.
I was looking for a mix of marketing, supply, and business analysis courses that were taught in English. EMLV offered exactly what I was looking for, along with the added bonus of being located in La Defense and near Paris. Studying here has allowed me to explore different cultures and gain a global perspective, which I believe will be invaluable in my future endeavors, – Shweta.
When Shweta first arrived in France from India, she was a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Leaving behind the familiar to pursue her education in a foreign land was a daunting prospect. As she prepares to commence her second year of Master’s studies, she reflects on the incredible personal and academic growth she has undertaken over the past year.
Navigating challenges while studying in Paris
The path of an international student has its challenges. Language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliar teaching styles initially posed formidable challenges for Shweta. She vividly remembers the moments of frustration when she struggled to communicate effectively or adapt to the French way of life. However, through these difficulties, she has gained valuable insights into resilience and adaptability.
My experience in France was definitely challenging, as I had to step out of my comfort zone and adapt to new ways of doing things. However, I believe that the opportunities and experiences that I gained here were well worth the effort. I also believe that ever since I came to France, being exposed to different cultures and languages can broaden one’s perspective, – Shweta.
Yet, Shweta has successfully navigated this demanding terrain through discipline, time management, and the unwavering support of her professors and EMLV Business School.
Becoming an international student in Paris is…
Becoming an international student in Paris is a transformative journey marked by many experiences, challenges, and opportunities.
France has a lot to offer, both in terms of professional opportunities and personal growth. There is always something going on to enjoy yourself and learn. Networking with people from different backgrounds and cultures has been an invaluable experience, and I believe that my international exposure and cultural competence will provide me the opportunity to work anywhere, – Shweta.
Much like Shweta Loganathan’s story as she pursued her Master in Management (Grande Ecole Programme) programme in France, international students in Paris embark on a path that leads to personal growth and academic enrichment.
At EMLV, the Welcome Desk is dedicated to making international student’s arrival as smooth as possible. The Welcome Desk helps students with any questions regarding their arrival in France, whether they are part of an exchange programme or joining one of EMLV’s international programs full-time.
They assist international students from the moment of the admission process until the end of the studies programme. The Welcome Desk assists with procedures such as:
- Finding accommodation
- Visa validation and renewal
- Campus integration
- Opening a bank account
- Getting a phone subscription
- Getting a public transport card
- Applying for social security and housing aid
Shweta’s message: If in doubt of studying abroad, move away from your comfort zone!
Moving away from the comfort of home can be a challenging experience. However, I would recommend that people have an open mind and embrace new experiences and traditions.
Learning French has been incredibly useful for me, even though I am still a beginner and speak broken French, it has allowed me to better engage with people and make new friends.
I would also recommend making an effort to build a strong network of friends and professional contacts while studying abroad. It can be intimidating to step out of your comfort zone, but I believe the benefits of doing so are well worth the effort.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore everything that your new home has to offer!
Learn more about the EMLV’s programmes
Learn more about EMLV’s Master in Management progamme
