Gabriele, class of 2024, is a 25-year-old Italian student from Verona who embarked on a life-changing academic journey through an exchange programme between Italy and France. After completing his first year at the University of Padua, Gabriele joined ESILV in Paris for his second year, driven by the structure of his master’s program, which mandated an international exchange experience.
When asked why he chose this path, Gabriele admitted that the program’s structure primarily determined the decision, but he had no regrets. His time at ESILV, he reflected, was “fantastic.” The opportunity to live in Paris and immerse himself in an international environment was a highlight for Gabriele, who had never lived abroad for an extended period.
Developing technical and soft skills at ESILV
Gabriele’s academic experience was equally enriching. Gabriele pursued financial engineering, which allowed him to combine his love for mathematics with his interest in finance.
At ESILV, he developed technical and soft skills, learning about modern financial concepts such as calibration, commodities, and risk models taught by highly knowledgeable professors.
But the experience wasn’t just about academics. Gabriele thrived in the multicultural environment at ESILV, making friends from Morocco, Spain, India, and Lebanon. The diverse setting enriched his experience, allowing him to broaden his perspectives and build an international network.
A “must” in Paris: The Eiffel Tower
The challenging academic experience at ESILV
Gabriele completed his internship at Accenture in Milan, where he worked in finance, mainly focusing on risk and compliance.
This hands-on experience helped shape his master’s thesis and deepened his interest in the field. Presenting his internship project remotely in English was challenging yet rewarding, underscoring the importance of language skills in today’s globalized world.
After ESILV, an Unforgettable Taste for International Experiences
As he looks ahead, Gabriele envisions a future in the finance sector, ideally as a quantitative analyst where he can leverage his mathematical expertise.
Despite being open to various opportunities, one of his dreams is to return to Paris, a city he fell in love with during his time at ESILV.
Though he acknowledges that the language barrier could be a challenge, he remains optimistic about finding an international position where English is the primary working language.
Embracing the opportunity to study abroad
Reflecting on his journey, Gabriele encourages other students to embrace the opportunity to study abroad, noting that such experiences are not only transformative but also much more natural and rewarding than one might expect.
Leaving Italy was initially daunting for him, but once in Paris, he quickly adapted and made the most of his time in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
For Gabriele, the power of international education represents personal growth and the lifelong impact of embracing new cultures and environments. For other students considering a similar path, his advice is simple: “Don’t be scared, just do it.”
Learn more about how ESILV encourages international openness