Joseph’s Study Abroad Experience in France
Joseph is an undergraduate student on the International Business Management with French BSc programme. He reflects on how studying abroad at Grenoble École de Management built his confidence and shaped his future career plans.
Q&A
Tell us about your study abroad experience – where was it, and what did you study?
I studied International Business at Grenoble École de Management (GEM) in Grenoble, France, close to the French Alps. There were lots of organised social events for international students, both within the business school and in the city, with students from the other universities.
I lived in private student accommodation with three other international students from GEM. I enjoyed living there – it gave me the chance to meet even more international students and socialise with them outside of the classroom.
What key skills did you develop during your time abroad?
I developed my cross-cultural communication skills, teamwork skills, and public speaking skills. This was all thanks to GEMs dynamic work environment, oriented around group work and presentations. My course was in English, with some French classes as well. My French developed a lot as I could practise it every day with French students at the university and with locals in the city.
What was the education system like at GEM? How did it compare to Newcastle, and what did you learn from this?
The education system was different. Class sizes were smaller, with around 20 students per class. Classes were longer at three hours and were focused on student-teacher interaction—much more like A-Levels. Assessment styles were different too, with group projects, presentations, class tests, essays, and end-of-semester exams.
How has your experience shaped your future career plans?
When I started my degree I had little idea which career path I wanted to follow after graduation. My year abroad at GEM transformed that completely. It turned uncertainty into clarity and confidence.
Grenoble is full of forward-thinking companies and start-ups. Being in that environment was truly inspiring. It reinforced my interest in sustainability and innovation within business. A memorable moment was visiting the Schneider Electric office in Grenoble with one of my classes. It offered a glimpse into what it’s like to work for an innovative multinational organisation committed to positive impact.
GEM also offered outstanding career support, organising several impressive career fairs for students. The fairs connected us with professionals from a wide range of industries.
One influential conversation was with representatives from Forvis Mazars in Lyon. This inspired me to apply for their summer internship programme in the UK. The skills and confidence I gained during my time at GEM – particularly through continuous assessments and interactive teaching – were key to successfully navigating the application and interview process. That internship ultimately led to me receiving a graduate offer with Forvis Mazars in London. I will be joining their Asset Management Audit Team.
Would you recommend studying abroad to other students?
Overall, my year studying abroad really was life-changing. I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without that experience.
Yes, I received invaluable career support, guidance and direction. But I was also incredibly fortunate to be able to form meaningful connections with many like-minded and inspiring individuals. These friendships helped me integrate smoothly into both the city and the university. I'm looking forward to maintaining these relationships and developing the international network I built at GEM.