On the evening of May 14, 2025, students gathered online for an inspiring and informative session focused on studying in France through dual degree programs. Organized by the Student Association, the event featured firsthand insights from students and alumni of the IBMBA program who pursued dual degrees at top French business schools:

Maël Cannavo, current dual degree student at NEOMA Business School

Teresa Chan, IBMBA alumna, dual degree graduate from KEDGE Business School

Angela, IBMBA alumna, dual degree graduate from Burgundy School of Business (BSB)

Justin, IBMBA alumnus, dual degree graduate from ESSCA École de Management

- Maël’s Introduction to French Life -

The evening began with Maël Cannavo, who offered a friendly and detailed overview of French daily life and culture. From greetings like “Bonjour” and la bise to navigating bureaucracy and public strikes, Maël provided students with cultural context and survival tips.

He also shared insights on:

Everyday essentials: dining tips, tipping, water safety
Logistics: housing platforms, SIM cards, bank account setup, and transportation costs
Student life at NEOMA: vibrant community, academic system, and grading
Healthcare: registration platforms and how to seek medical services

He closed his sharing with this encouraging tip:

“French people love to talk about their country! If you make French friends before going to France, they’ll recommend so many places to visit!”

- Teresa’s Dual Degree Journey at KEDGE

Following Maël, Teresa Chan shared her structured and honest experience pursuing a dual degree at KEDGE Business School in Bordeaux.

Key highlights:

Housing: Understand the difference between CROUS and private rentals; respond quickly to secure options; beware of scams
Academics: Graduation requires a thesis and a six-month internship; KEDGE emphasizes practical projects like Be-U and Pro-Act
Documents & Preparation: Translate your birth certificate (for housing subsidy), get a French SIM card, and open a bank account early
Basic French: Not fluency, but enough to manage daily interactions is essential
Lifestyle Tips: She recommended helpful platforms like Linkee, local transport apps, and visiting Bordeaux’s wine attractions and museums (many of which offer student discounts)

Her core advice:

“Don’t expect to open a bank account on the same day without an appointment!”

- Alumni Real Talk: Angela (BSB) & Justin (ESSCA)

The session concluded with a lively Q&A moderated by Cindy from the Office of International Affairs and Programs, featuring IBMBA alumni Angela and Justin, who completed their dual degrees at BSB and ESSCA, respectively.

Justin shared a lesson on bureaucracy:

“The official website might say one thing, but reality is often different. I had to argue with a security guard just to submit my paperwork. Follow up, don’t hesitate to negotiate.”

Angela recalled a housing issue that turned out well:

“My landlord double-booked my apartment, and I had to stay in an Airbnb. But that unexpected change brought me to a much better living situation—with a great environment and roommate.”

Both alumni gave important safety reminders:

Avoid looking like a tourist
Limit the cash you carry
Be cautious when asking strangers for photos
Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings

-Final Thoughts: Beyond the Classroom

This session went far beyond practical tips—it highlighted the resilience, adaptability, and personal growth that come with studying abroad. Whether adjusting to cultural differences, navigating setbacks, or gaining new perspectives, each speaker showed that the dual degree journey is as rewarding as it is transformative.

The Student Association sincerely thanks Maël, Teresa, Angela, and Justin for their openness and invaluable insights. Their stories have not only prepared future students for their journey to France but also inspired them to embrace the unexpected with confidence.

Written by: Stanislaus 蔡緗倫

《113-2》From NSYSU to France: What to Expect in Your Dual Degree Adventure