Navigating Paris and Data Science: Viviane’s MSc Experience at ESILV

Viviane, a 2023 MSc Computer Science & Data Science graduate at ESILV, shares her experience as an international student in Paris. From academic learning to cultural immersion, her year proved rewarding and memorable.

Her story reflects the journey of many international students who choose ESILV for its academic excellence and vibrant student life.

An International Academic Journey at ESILV: A Gateway to Global Expertise

Originally from Vietnam, Viviane completed her MSc in Computer Science & Data Science at ESILV in 2023. Before arriving in Paris, she earned a degree in software engineering in Vietnam and an MBA in China.

With four years of professional experience as a data analyst in several Asian countries (Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Haiti), she chose ESILV for its comprehensive and well-recognized program.

Seeking a high-level education in data science, Viviane evaluated several master’s programs in France before selecting ESILV. She appreciated the program’s robust curriculum, covering essential skills needed to become a data scientist or machine learning engineer. The Conférence des Grandes Écoles (CGE) accreditation also significantly influenced her decision.

A Memorable Academic Year at ESILV

Viviane describes her year at ESILV as both enriching and unforgettable. The professors, experts in their fields, were always available to answer questions and ensured that students fully understood and could independently apply the concepts taught.

One of the highlights of her year was the research project she conducted at the Greata laboratory, affiliated with the Université Gustave Eiffel. She developed a deep learning model during her internship to predict optimal traffic flow.

His research was presented at the annual Transportation Research Board (TRB) conference in the United States in January 2025, a significant accomplishment that showcases the quality of work produced by ESILV students.

Support and Professional Networking

From her first day, Viviane felt supported by the ESILV welcome team, who guided her through the administrative procedures required for living in France, such as dealing with the prefecture, applying for transportation cards, and requesting housing assistance.

The career services team also played a crucial role by organizing job fairs where she had the opportunity to connect with companies and secure her internship.

One of these career events allowed Viviane to network with industry professionals and eventually find a research internship, an essential part of her academic journey.

Student Life in Paris

Living in Paris came with both challenges and delights. While some administrative tasks could be complex and exhausting, Viviane cherished her time in the city.

She loved Paris’s charm, from its picturesque streets to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Attending French classes organized by ESILV also helped her improve her language skills and build connections with French and international students.

Advice for Future International Students

For those considering a master’s degree in France, Viviane recommends thoroughly researching the program to ensure it aligns with personal interests and career goals.

Adequate financial planning is also crucial to avoid overcommitting to part-time work, which could interfere with studies. Finally, she encourages students to make the most of the academic and professional opportunities offered by ESILV to enrich their experience.

Learn more about the MSc Computer Science & Data Science at ESILV.