Inside the ESSEC Global MBA Exchange Experience at the University of Mannheim

An international exchange is more than an academic experience—it is an opportunity to develop new perspectives, build an international network, and explore different business cultures. As part of the ESSEC Global MBA, Hélène Le spent a semester at the University of Mannheim in Germany. She shares how the exchange complemented her MBA journey and supported her career goals in strategy consulting.

Can you introduce yourself in just a few words?

Hélène Le: I’m a French engineer with 6 years of experience in the aerospace & defense industry. After working in R&D, innovation, and technology strategy at MBDA, I am now a Corporate Venture Capital Analyst while pursuing my MBA at ESSEC Business School.

Why did you choose the ESSEC Global MBA?

Hélène Le: After more than five years working in R&D and strategic innovation, I saw the ESSEC Global MBA as the next step in my career. ESSEC stood out for its values, international environment, and customizable curriculum, helping me prepare for a transition into strategy consulting.

What motivated you to choose the exchange opportunity at the University of Mannheim as part of the ESSEC GMBA?

Hélène Le: I chose the exchange at the University of Mannheim because it aligned with my MBA journey at ESSEC and my long-standing connection to Germany. Having studied and worked in French-German environments throughout my academic career, I wanted to deepen my understanding of the German business mindset. Mannheim’s strong reputation and courses in strategy and finance made it an ideal opportunity to support my professional goals and expand my network in Germany.

How has this international experience complemented or enriched your Global MBA journey so far?

Hélène Le: The exchange strengthened my bicultural French-German foundation by adding a business perspective to my academic background. Through courses and networking events, I gained insights into the German business mindset, particularly its long-term orientation and industrial approach. It also helped me expand my professional network in Germany and explore future career opportunities with alumni, MBA candidates, and startups in the aerospace and defense ecosystem.

Has there been a particular course, project, or interaction that truly stood out during your time in Mannheim?

Hélène Le: The courses in Mergers & Acquisitions and Global Corporate Strategy had the greatest impact on me. They provided useful real-world insights through many case studies, our professors’ expertise and guest speakers from the industry.

How would you describe the academic atmosphere and the diversity of perspectives you encountered there?

Hélène Le: The academic atmosphere at Mannheim was very enriching. Working in diverse MBA groups allowed me to learn from different perspectives while contributing my own French-German cultural lens. It was a highly stimulating environment where collaboration and cultural exchange were at the heart of the learning experience

You were recently selected to attend the MBA World Summit in June. What does this selection mean to you?

Hélène Le: It is a great honor and reflects the opportunities that the ESSEC Global MBA can create. I am particularly excited to engage with leaders from around the world on topics such as AI and innovation, while representing the ESSEC Global MBA. Returning to the Technical University of Munich, where my academic journey began, makes this experience especially meaningful and feels like coming full circle.

What advice would you give to a future Global MBA participant who is considering an international exchange experience?

Hélène Le: Embrace the experience with curiosity and openness to new academic and cultural perspectives. Set clear goals for your exchange, whether improving your language skills, exploring new industries, or building your professional network. By fully engaging in both the classroom and networking opportunities, you can make the most of this unique opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Feeling inspired by Hélène's experience?

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