STUDY IN EUROPE: Experiencing Germany and France through a Masters Network

 

However, I wanted to gain more indepth knowledge about core finance and economics, hence, started exploring master’s programmes in Germany. Many Indian students, particularly those with engineering backgrounds, often end up in Germany; more so than those from other backgrounds, such as management or business.

 

This is part of the reason I chose Germany for my business education as it is an unconventional choice for an Indian business student, while also giving me access to the rest of Europe. I am now pursuing an MSc in Money and Finance at Goethe University Frankfurt.

 

The city of Frankfurt is known globally as one of the most important financial centres of the European continent, home to the headquarters of several major banks. This offers a valuable network when it comes to business, education, and work, and exposure to individuals for mentorship or guidance.

 

Although I was already an international student in Germany, I still wanted to do an exchange semester abroad elsewhere. This led me to QTEM as an option for a study abroad experience. QTEM is an international master’s network with a number of partner business schools around the world, as well as academic partners including Cartier and Amazon. Goethe University Frankfurt was already a partner with QTEM, so I was able to complete my QTEM experience by studying at the EDHEC Business School in Nice, France. I am interested in the culture of the South of France and wanted to learn more about different parts of Europe. As part of the QTEM programme, students must undertake highly quantitative or semi-quantitative courses during their exchange semesters. This is particularly beneficial in today's data-driven world. Additionally, through the Global Business Analytics Challenge which is part of the QTEM experience, students are able to not only learn various programming languages but also develop the essential soft skills needed in enhancing one’s career.

 

My QTEM experience was more than just a study exchange; I was not just going abroad, studying, and coming back. I felt part of a community and network and was able to engage with other like-minded students from around the world. It is more like being part of a family, connecting you with people in QTEM who are there to help you in every aspect. The network is also looking to develop further in other continents and find a good academic partner in India.

 

If you are considering Germany for higher education, it is important to know what language your course is being offered in. If offered in German, you will of course need some level of language proficiency. However, at least in Frankfurt itself, language isn’t a huge barrier as most people are also fluent in English. I would also recommend practising independent learning. In India, the education system is more steered towards rote learning. In Germany, there is a greater emphasis on independent learning and developing your own approach to teaching yourself, rather than learning everything from somebody else. To be honest, I personally love everything about Frankfurt so far. I think part of that for me is the skyline; it reminds me of Mumbai because, while other German cities are more traditional, Frankfurt is more modern.

 

I was excited to study the courses at EDHEC since the finance programmes offered by the school are highly ranked. I had to face some challenges related to accommodation and getting a French study visa in due time. Eventually, I was able to get a rental offer from one of the student dorms.

Not being able to speak French was another major hurdle in the day-to-day tasks. However, the people in Nice were usually very helpful and were aware of the fact that, most often, one could be a tourist or an international student.

 

Due to a good transport network, I was able to travel to some of the most prominent tourist locations in the French Riviera. I had some of the most memorable trips and experiences with the friends I made during my exchange semester. The amalgamation of various aspects like the beach, sunsets, food, people, and culture in Nice really made it a worthwhile experience.

 

I am keen to explore opportunities in other cities throughout Europe, but for now, my plan is to stay in Frankfurt to gain more work experience and develop knowledge and skills in my chosen field.