Home City and Country: New York City, United States
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: TheGuarantors (FinTech/InsurTech scale-up) – Associate
How has studying business in France enriched your learning experience? Studying business in France has been incredibly enriching due to the diversity of perspectives in my cohort. The MBA class is not only internationally diverse, but also spans a wide range of professional backgrounds, which leads to richer discussions and more nuanced approaches to problem-solving. While I studied my undergraduate degree in New York City, most of my classmates were American, so this level of global exposure has been a meaningful shift. I have also gained a deeper appreciation for how business communication and strategy must be adapted to different cultural contexts, which contrasts with the more direct, results-oriented business culture I was accustomed to in the U.S.
What has been the toughest transition to living in France so far? What have you done to overcome this difficulty? One of the more unexpected challenges has been adapting to the local food culture as a vegetarian. Traditional French cuisine is still fairly meat-centric, so dining out initially felt a bit limiting. I have been exploring Paris’s growing plant-based scene, supporting small independent restaurants, and discovering international cuisine. Encouragingly, even local grocery stores have expanded their plant-based options, reflecting how quickly the food culture is evolving.
What school service has been the most helpful in transitioning to living in France? How has it helped you adapt? Both ESCP’s MBA administration and alumni network have been instrumental in my transition. The alumni association has provided invaluable connections to graduates who previously navigated similar moves to France, while the MBA team has been exceptionally supportive on both practical and cultural fronts. From helping us understand French traditions through social events to providing hands-on guidance with visas and administrative processes, they genuinely prioritize student well-being and integration.
What has been the most interesting cultural nuance of people living in France? Why has this struck you? One cultural practice that has really stood out to me is le goûter, the afternoon pause for tea and a small sweet treat. It is a simple but meaningful ritual that creates space for connection and reflection during the day. I find it to be a refreshing reminder to slow down, nurture relationships, and appreciate small moments, even in busy professional environments.
Are you seeking a visa to work in France after graduation? If so, what obstacles have you faced and how did you overcome them? Yes, I am seeking to work in France after graduation. I moved to France with my French spouse and am currently navigating the immigration process alongside my MBA. While the required administrative steps and mandatory courses can be time-intensive during the academic term, I have managed this by building strong relationships with classmates to stay on track and by communicating proactively with professors. Many faculty members are international themselves and have been very understanding, which has made the process much more manageable.
What have you done to make it easier to make friends with people from outside your home country at business school? I made a conscious effort to engage in activities outside the classroom early on. Joining a crochet club introduced me to people I might not have otherwise met, and participating in cohort social events helped build friendships naturally. I have also enjoyed trying new activities, like taking Pilates classes with classmates, which has turned into a regular routine and a great way to connect across cultures.
What piece of advice would you give to an international student looking to study in a French graduate business program? Take advantage of the opportunity to explore France beyond the major cities. Travel within the country is relatively affordable, and France offers incredible regional diversity, from small villages to historic towns and natural landscapes. Immersing yourself outside the academic setting deepens your cultural experience and makes your time studying in France even more rewarding.
© Copyright 2026 Poets & Quants. All rights reserved. This article may not be republished, rewritten or otherwise distributed without written permission. To reprint or license this article or any content from Poets & Quants, please submit your request HERE.
