When Spandana ONTEDDU decided to pursue a Master in Management at NEOMA Business School, she knew it would be more than just an academic milestone; it would be a transformative life journey. From securing scholarships and navigating French bureaucracy to learning the language and embracing a new culture, her story reflects the courage and clarity needed to make the most of studying abroad.
Spandana shares why she chose France, what challenges she faced, and the lessons she hopes others will carry into their own global journeys. For any Indian student eyeing France as their next step, her experience is both a roadmap and a reminder: success abroad begins with mindset, preparation, and staying rooted in who you are.
What inspired you to pursue your Master’s in France?
France stood out for many reasons. The Grande École system is globally recognised for its excellence, especially in business and management education. NEOMA Business School, in particular, offered the perfect blend of academic rigor, industry relevance, and international exposure I was looking for.
France is also a hub for finance, fintech, and innovation — all areas that align with my long-term vision of becoming a global financial professional. I knew that studying here would not only boost my career but also allow me to grow personally by immersing myself in a new culture and refining my French language skills.
How did you decide on your program?
The decision came after a lot of reflection and research. NEOMA’s Grande École status gave me confidence, but it was the flexibility of the MiM program that truly appealed to me. It allows you to shape your journey — from choosing your specialization to selecting a dual degree option in your second year.
At first, I had to weigh multiple options — different schools, countries, specialisations — and compare how they aligned with my career goals. But speaking to alumni and understanding NEOMA’s balance between academic learning and practical exposure made my choice clear.
How did you finance your education?
I’m self-financing my studies with support from my family. I was also fortunate to receive a €1,500 Excellence Scholarship from NEOMA, which was awarded based on my academic profile, application strength, and interview performance. It was a motivating recognition, and it pushed me to keep striving for excellence throughout the program.
What challenges did you face while settling into life in France?
The initial few weeks were intense. Navigating the paperwork for the visa, CAF housing aid, and setting up essentials like a SIM card or a bank account was time-consuming, especially with language barriers. Finding accommodation remotely was also tricky, particularly understanding the French guarantor system.
Culturally, I had to adapt to new communication styles and a different pace of life. But I leaned on NEOMA’s support systems, international student groups, and online resources. With time, things settled down and I started enjoying the rhythm of life here.
What are your tips for students planning to study in France?
- 📘 Start early: Begin your application, visa, and accommodation process well in advance.
- 🇫🇷 Learn basic French: It’s not just helpful — it’s a game changer. It opens doors to internships, smoothens daily interactions, and shows you’re making an effort.
- 💪 Be independent: You’ll need to cook, clean, manage your finances, and navigate admin tasks. It builds resilience and confidence.
- 🧠 Stay grounded: Never forget your roots. Your values and background are your strengths.
- 🌐 Network wisely: It’s not just who you know — it’s how and why you connect with them. Every conversation can spark an opportunity.
- 🧘 Be emotionally intelligent: Don’t get overwhelmed by setbacks. With the right mindset, every challenge becomes a chance to grow.
What’s your biggest takeaway from this journey so far?
That it’s not just about the degree. It’s about who you become in the process. You grow in ways you never expect — personally, academically, emotionally. Every obstacle teaches you something. The key is to stay focused, take action, and treat each day as an opportunity.
This journey is not just about a degree — it’s about becoming the best version of yourself.
You never know which path leads to the breakthrough you’re waiting for — but staying open, present, and connected makes all the difference.
Spandana’s story is a powerful reminder that international education is as much about personal transformation as it is about academic success. Her journey is filled with lessons in preparation, independence, and emotional resilience — all of which are crucial for anyone planning to move abroad.
If you’re considering higher education in France and want to simplify your journey with the right guidance and tools, Ask Sétu is here to help. With curated resources, expert advice, and AI-powered support, we simplify your move and stay in France.
Drop us a note on hello@asksetu.com or visit asksetu.com to start your Paris chapter the right way!
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