Nicola, class of 2022, is studying abroad as an ESILV foreign exchange student in Paris during his master’s studies in financial engineering. Today, he shares his experience transitioning from Italy to France as an engineer to be.
ESILV welcomes students from its partner institutions abroad to study at its Paris La Defense campus. Exchange students have the opportunity to complete engineering coursework at ESILV to meet academic requirements at their home institutions. In 2020, Nicolas had chosen the financial engineering major at ESILV and secured an internship at a Big 4 firm this summer.
Study abroad: on the move from Padua to Paris
Starting with my academic/educational background, I have got a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering attended the University of Udine in Italy. However, after a year of work, I decided to enrol in a master’s degree in mathematical engineering at the University of Padua (Italy).
During the enrollment process, I discovered the possibility of undertaking a hybrid course of study between mathematics and financial engineering. The second-year (M2), in financial engineering, is held in Paris at ESILV.
Having the opportunity to study in two of the best universities in Europe has made this university experience even more stimulating. ESILV is one of the partner universities of the University of Padua.
The choice fell on this university mainly for its reputation in preparing students for the world of work, thanks to many projects and practical workshops (pi2) and the possibility of taking a high-level training internship to complete their studies.
Then, living an experience in a city of the calibre and full of opportunities like Paris makes it all unmissable.
My major is financial engineering, in particular financial markets. The choice fell on this path to continue the union between mathematics and finance. The possibility of putting into practice the concepts and bases of mathematics learned during the first year in the world of finance represents a great opportunity.
A significant advantage of this course is that it offers much more than the classic standard courses. We have been able to deepen cutting-edge topics such as machine learning, the applications of artificial intelligence and the latest mathematical models to the financial world.
Living the Pole Leonard de Vinci experience in Paris
The Pole Leonard de Vinci experience was exciting and pleasant. The university has managed to guarantee a hybrid mode of excellent quality. The lessons when they were not in presence were held remotely, always ensuring superb performance. Finally, the professors are among the best practitioners and researchers, from whom we can learn a lot.
Paris is a unique city, a metropolis located in the middle of Europe rich in both history and opportunities. Both the financial part (Defense) and the centre offer countless events and opportunities.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic marred the experience, it was still exciting and profitable.
Before the lockdown, I visited the leading museums and monuments of the city to experience a bit of normality. Even in the most challenging times, the city (and the government) reacted in the best possible way, always guaranteeing the health and safety of citizens.
Therefore, despite the challenging global situation, I can consider Paris as one of the cities that offers more opportunities globally, both as a student and as a worker, as there are universities and the prominent best companies globally.
Being an intern in a Big Four
I recently started an internship in Milan (Italy) in one of the Big Four. The high expectations have all been met. The work environment is indeed stimulating and very rewarding. It is nice to see how the company invests in you in training and entrusts you with projects right away.
Undoubtedly it is an excellent opportunity for my career both for the working reality and the experience that develops.
It is absolutely a great opportunity. Finding a good internship is a boost for your career. The search was not easy. Given the historical period in which we find ourselves, fewer places are available. But in the end, with tenacity and determination, I managed to pass the interview and secure a spot.
A fundamental role was played by the various practical projects and skills related to the world of work developed during the year at ESILV.
To make all the experiences that the university and the city offer, without sparing, is my piece of advice. The opportunity to learn or improve your French is also a chance not to be missed.
