When I landed in Mumbai from Madagascar to join Athena School of Management, I was experiencing a mix of nervousness and excitement. I had got admission based on my GMAT Scores and Interviews. My parents were happy that I was joining one of India’s exclusive business schools but also worried about my stay and welfare. As the months went by, the nervousness and concern are gone but the excitement is still there.
My experience as an international student has been one of positive learning experiences. My first language is French so understanding the local accents of English took me sometime. Of course, I can now fluently speak English and even understand Hindi! Everyone I have met in Mumbai has been helpful and everyday is full of new challenges and learnings!
While I had options to study in France or Dubai, I chose to study management in India, specifically at Athena, because I wanted to learn the Indian way of Business. That along with the opportunity to do multiple Internships, corporate connect and practical learning everyday at Athena has changed my outlook on business and opportunities.
My advice for other international students is to take advantage of the opportunities that you can get on campus and build your network from day one only. Also, while the culture where you come from might be totally different from India, but the thing is that, once you learn to be confident and not afraid of asking questions and pursuing opportunities, you will be very successful towards your studies as well as your general life.
Finally, Mumbai is an amazing city with warm people. At Athena interacting with the diverse group of students and great faculty has been a wonderful experience.
Aimane Houssenaly (PGPM Class of 2019) is an International Student from Madagascar at Athena School of Management in Mumbai. She is pursuing her specialisation in Marketing.