Living and learning in France as an international student

Life in Lyon: a perfect blend of tradition and modernity

Mornings in Lyon: a sensory delight

Every morning in Lyon feels like a scene from a French movie. As I walk to my classes, the enticing scent of freshly baked bread and croissants follows me through the city. Lyon’s streets are a perfect mix of history and modernity, where ancient architecture meets the dynamic energy of student life.

Lyon is not just beautiful, it’s practical too. The city is highly student-friendly, with affordable public transportation and endless cultural activities. Whether it’s exploring the vibrant Presqu'île district, strolling along the Rhône River, or trying new dishes at local bouchons, Lyon offers something for everyone. 

The student spirit of Lyon 

Lyon is home to over 180,000 students, including 15,000 international students like me. It’s ranked among the top student cities in France, and I can see why. The city fosters a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, making it easy to connect with other students from around the world. 

My Journey at ESDES Business School 

Exceptional Faculty with Real-World Experience

 
One of the standouts features of ESDES Business School is its faculty. The professors here aren’t just academics who lecture from textbooks—they are professionals with significant real-world business experience, both in France and abroad. Their ability to bring practical insights and examples from their careers makes the classes engaging and relevant. This approach has helped me understand how to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life business situations. 

Self-Motivation and Responsibility

Studying abroad, especially at a business school like ESDES, instills a sense of  responsibility in students. Unlike some education systems where professors might 
constantly monitor students, here, we are expected to manage our own learning. 
Balancing assignments, exams, and projects is entirely up to us, which cultivates 
discipline and self-reliance. 

Campus Life: Where Learning Meets Community

ESDES is more than just classrooms and lectures. The campus is a hub of activity, with modern facilities that cater to both academic and student life. I’ve spent countless hours at the Henri de Lubac library, and relaxing in the lounge after classes. 
The vibrant student community is another highlight. With over 40 associations, there’s always something happening—whether it’s cultural events, networking opportunities, or sports competitions. Being part of these associations has been a great way to meet new people and build soft skills like teamwork and leadership, you can share your international experience in International Students Club, or try yourself in CHEERLEADERS club, or help to inform students in ESDES in MEDIA ESDES club. There are other options that you can choose, and I am sure you will find something that would be ideal for you!

The International Dimension

Learning beyond borders

One of the reasons I chose ESDES was its emphasis on international exposure. In my second year, I may have the opportunity to participate in a compulsory exchange program, which could be a life-changing experience. ESDES also offers options to spend up to 36 months abroad through internships and exchange semesters, which I plan to take full advantage of. There are 14 universities worldwide with which ESDES has partnerships that allow students to earn degrees in different countries like the U.S., China, and the UK. 

Personal and Professional Growth

Studying abroad isn’t just about academics—it’s an investment in your future. The 
challenges of adapting to a new culture, managing your studies independently, and navigating life in a foreign country build resilience and confidence. These experiences are invaluable for anyone aspiring to succeed in a competitive global job market. 
With students from over 80 nationalities, studying feels like a global community. 
Interacting with classmates from diverse backgrounds has helped me understand different cultures and broaden my perspective.
Through group projects, class discussions, and social events, I’ve learned to navigate cultural differences and collaborate with people from all over the world. This experience is invaluable for anyone preparing for a career in international business.

Conclusion

Living in Lyon and studying at ESDES Business School has been an enriching experience that has shaped me in ways I never imagined. From the charm of Lyon’s streets to the dynamic, supportive environment at ESDES, every moment has been a step toward personal and professional growth. The practical teaching methods, multicultural exposure, and opportunities for self-development have made this journey truly unforgettable. If you’re considering studying in France, I can confidently say that Lyon and ESDES are the perfect choices for an unforgettable academic and personal adventure.