Scholarships, Internships & French Riviera Life: My EDHEC Story

Choosing the right business school is a critical step in shaping your career. For Vaishakh Raj, a student enrolled in the Master in Management – Finance track, EDHEC Business School stood out for its strong finance programme, international reputation, and career support. The Master in Management (MiM) dual-degree structure, with a dedicated professional immersion year, offered the perfect blend of theory and real-world experience.

Beyond academics, EDHEC’s diverse student body, proactive Career Centre, and prime location in Nice, South of France, made the experience even more appealing. From connecting with alumni to exploring life on the French Riviera, his journey so far has been incredibly rewarding. In this article, Vaishakh shares why he chose EDHEC, his experience as an international student in France, and advice for students considering this path.

What made you choose EDHEC Business School for your Master’s?

The structure of EDHEC’s finance programme was a major factor. The dual-degree format of the Master in Management allows students to build a strong foundation in finance before specialising in the second academic year. This three-year programme offers the perfect balance. The inclusion of a professional immersion year for work experience was also a key advantage—it allows me to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting and deepen my understanding of finance.

Additionally, I spoke to several Indian Alumni who had great experiences at EDHEC. They highlighted the strong career opportunities, the proactive Career Center, and the school’s reputation in Europe. These insights played a crucial role in my decision.

How has student life been for you in France, both on campus and in Nice?

The diversity of the student body was a pleasant surprise. I expected an international environment, but I was still amazed by how well-represented different nationalities were—students from across Europe, Africa, South America, and beyond.

Campus life is vibrant, with various activities organised by the Career Centre and the International Student Office (ISO). Recently, there was a cheese and wine tasting event, which was a great way to learn about French culture and connect with other students.

Adjusting to life in France took about a month—getting familiar with everyday essentials like grocery stores, making friends, and exploring extracurricular activities. I enjoy running along the Promenade des Anglais – The French Riviera, playing squash, and taking weekend trips to places like Marseille, Monaco, and even Italy. The experience has been incredibly enriching.

Congratulations on receiving the Co-Finance Scholarship! How did you find out about it, and what was the process like?

While applying to EDHEC, I researched financial aid options, including scholarships for Indian students. I came across this scholarship and reached out to the admissions team for details. I learned that after getting accepted, candidates are nominated for the scholarship.

After my nomination, I had to complete a separate Kira interview, different from the one for admissions. The questions were open-ended, focusing on my career goals, how I would contribute to EDHEC as a student ambassador, and how I would help raise awareness of the school in India. The process was straightforward, and I was thrilled to be selected. The scholarship significantly reduced my financial burden and helped me secure accommodation in Nice.

What kind of internships are you aiming for during your professional immersion year?

I am targeting roles in private markets, such as private equity or private debt. These sectors work with emerging businesses to improve operations and profitability, which aligns with my long-term goal of starting my own business.

I’ve been leveraging resources like the Career Centre, and peer discussions to refine my approach. The flexibility of the three-year programme is a huge advantage—it allows me to develop my skills while applying for internships and determining my specialisation within finance.

Has any particular event or lecture stood out during your first year?

Several experiences have been impactful. One of the most memorable was a talk by Guillaume Chardonnay from Ardian, a leading private markets firm. As an EDHEC Alumnus, he shared valuable industry insights and explained what firms like Ardian look for in candidates. Since private markets interest me, his perspective was invaluable.

Another key event was the Career Fair, which took place just ten days after I arrived in France. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but speaking directly to recruiters so early in the programme helped me understand employer expectations and how I should position myself.

Additionally, some courses have been particularly insightful—like the valuation course taught by a professor who runs his own investment fund. Learning from industry professionals provides a real-world perspective that goes beyond theory.

Do you have any advice for students considering EDHEC Business School?

As a student ambassador, I frequently connect with prospective students, in general, I’d say:

1. Research thoroughly – Understand what each programme offers and whether it aligns with your career goals.
2. Reach out to Alumni – Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights.
3. Utilise EDHEC’s resources – From webinars to career services, take full advantage of what the school offers to make an informed decision.
4. Learn some French – Having even a basic conversational level in French will open you to a wide variety of different opportunities and experiences, making your transition to life in France much smoother.