From French Studies to EDHEC: Why I Chose the Master in Management Programme

 

After completing her undergraduate and master’s studies in French, Longdan ZHANG worked at a game company focusing on overseas markets, where she developed a strong interest in marketing and branding. In 2024, she joined EDHEC’s Master in Management - Business Management track and successfully received the EDHEC Future China Alumni Impact Scholarship. Here, she shares her experience of applying for the MiM programme, securing the scholarship, and her reflections on the learning and living environment at the Lille campus.

 

 

What was your academic background before EDHEC?

I majored in French during my undergraduate studies and continued with a master’s degree in the same field. Joining EDHEC marks my second master’s programme.
After completing my studies in China, I started working at a game company focusing on overseas markets. This role exposed me to international marketing, sparking my interest in branding and market-related work.

Currently, I am pursuing the Master in Management (MiM) programme at EDHEC, specialising in Business Management. In the first year, we focus on fundamental business knowledge. In the second academic year, I plan to choose marketing-related modules, such as the MSc in Marketing Analytics, as my specialisation.

 

I appreciate how EDHEC’s MiM programme provides a clear structure and detailed course descriptions, helping students understand what they will learn each year.

 

 

 

Why did you choose EDHEC?

 

There are two main reasons why I chose EDHEC:

1.    Programme Structure and Specialisation: The MiM programme’s course structure, particularly the Marketing Analytics specialisation, deeply attracted me. Throughout the programme, I will gain a solid foundation in business while focusing on data analytics, which aligns with my career goals.

2.    Student Services and Career Support: EDHEC stands out for its comprehensive student services. From the very beginning of the application process, the International Admissions Office provided detailed guidance. Additionally, the Career Centre begins offering career support within the first two weeks of the programme, which is incredibly appealing.

 

 

 

Why did you choose your current Master’s programme?

 

Coming from a non-business background, I was initially worried about keeping up with the coursework. However, EDHEC’s MiM programme is beginner-friendly for students without prior business knowledge. The course pace allows me to fill any gaps and complete all tasks on time. This makes the programme a perfect fit for me.

 

 

 

How did you learn about the EDHEC Future China Alumni Impact Scholarship?

 

I came across the scholarship information on social media in China.
When researching scholarships for studying abroad, I discovered that EDHEC offers a variety of scholarships, including the China Future Alumni Scholarship, Cultural Diversity Scholarship, and Women in Business Scholarship. I encourage anyone interested to apply, as these scholarships provide valuable opportunities.

 

 

 

How has receiving this scholarship benefited you?

 

The scholarship has significantly reduced my financial and psychological burden, allowing me to allocate more resources to pursue my goals. I encourage everyone to apply for scholarships if they have the opportunity—don’t hesitate to give it a try!

 

 

 

What was your first impression of EDHEC?

 

At EDHEC, I felt an atmosphere of youthfulness, ambition, and energy. Despite its long history, the school is evolving rapidly. The MiM programme’s impressive performance in this year’s Financial Times rankings (ranked 4th globally in 2024) motivates me even more!

 

 

 

Have you interacted with faculty and staff? What did you discuss?

 

Our Corporate Finance professor has worked in Hong Kong and is very familiar with China. During class, he asked me about my experiences working in Shenzhen, which I found to be a fascinating cultural exchange. Discussing familiar topics in different settings with people from diverse backgrounds has given me fresh perspectives and reinforced EDHEC’s inclusive and open environment.

 

 

 

What is the teaching approach and content of your program?

 

The MiM programme covers foundational knowledge in areas like marketing, finance, and accounting, blending theory with practice. For instance, in the Strategic Management course, we learn theoretical concepts and then apply them through group case studies. This approach strengthens our understanding and application of knowledge.

 

 

 

Have you met students from different countries through classes and activities?

 

The school organises many welcome events. During Integration Day, I joined a team with five students from different regions and countries. Despite our diverse backgrounds and languages, working together toward a common goal made us feel connected. It was a special and touching experience.

 

 

 

What are your impressions of the Lille campus?

 

The Lille campus and the city itself have beautiful greenery. I arrived in the fall, and walking through the campus felt like strolling through a park. It’s refreshing and uplifting.

The campus also has excellent sports facilities, including a gymnasium with basketball courts, a swimming pool, and a fitness center, catering to students’ exercise and fitness needs.

 

 

 

Was it easy to adapt to life and study in France?

 

So far, I haven’t encountered major difficulties in daily life. However, studying in France requires dealing with many administrative procedures, which can be time-consuming. With patience and persistence, I’ve managed to handle everything, and I believe overcoming these challenges has strengthened my resilience for future obstacles.

 

 

 

What are your future plans and aspirations (academic, professional, personal)?

 

The second year of EDHEC’s MiM programme allows us to take a full year for internships, providing significant flexibility. I hope to secure a position in the retail industry focusing on market research or marketing analytics. Following that, I plan to specialise in Marketing Analytics in the second academic year to further strengthen my skills and secure a related job after graduation.

 

 

 

What advice do you have for students applying to your programme?

 

My main advice is to have a clear plan for your goals and career direction. A well-defined career path will help you choose the right programme and tailor your application to align with the selection criteria. Take the time to address any gaps in your profile, and you’ll be well-prepared to succeed.