After graduating with a bachelor degree in Economics from Wuhan University in China, I decided to choose an international track to continue my study in Europe and prepare my future professional career in a financial area within a multi-culture environment.
Since China has opened its financial markets to foreign investors more than before, I knew that new opportunities had arisen for native Chinese with international experience. Impressed by the outstanding reputation of EDHEC Business School in Finance and Risk Management, I found that the Master of Science in Finance programme fitted my career path well and I was convinced that it was my best choice.
With equal focus on corporate finance and market finance, I found that the curriculum in EDHEC combines practical skills and theoretical knowledge well, something quite different from the courses I did before. The professors, either academic experts or speakers with outstanding professional background give impressive lectures to the class and motivate us to think creatively and critically. Besides that, the most attractive thing to me is the high number of case studies the we do as group projects.
My classroom is very diversified culturally and I have plenty of occasions to discussion with students of different countries, observe diversified thoughts, cultures, education background and personal characteristics. I learned how to express my opinions, listen to others and solve problems under pressure. I know this will benefit me tremendously when I work in a multi-cultural environment.
EDHEC not only has an excellent academic environment, but also provides us with career guidance and services. The close relationships with the corporations and financial institutions ensure we receive the latest information about jobs and internships. The professional team from the Careers Service also gives advice through lectures and face-to-face consulting.
Finally, I got a lot of help from the International Office which assisted me with practical and administrative matters, such as arranging my accommodation, residence permit and housing allowance. Also, they organised a two-week intensive French course before term started and French courses throughout term too and this helps me deal with my daily life as well as giving me a basic knowledge about the French culture.
EDHEC really has given me the opportunity to take my first step in the competitive international environment.