Two years ago, in June 2023, I received one of the most exhilarating emails of my life— “Congratulations! You have been selected for the 2-year full-time MBA program at the Indian Institute of Management, Nagpur.” In that moment, excitement coursed through me as I envisioned the journey ahead, eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Little did I know, this was merely the tip of the iceberg. What awaited me was far more than an academic pursuit—it was an experience that would shape me in ways I had never imagined. As the course unfolded, I was introduced to the student exchange program with Université de Lille by a senior, sparking a curiosity that soon transformed into determination. After thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, I seized the opportunity, ready to embark on an adventure that would redefine my understanding of education, culture, and travel—an experience that would remain etched in my memory forever.
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Studying abroad is more than attending classes in a different country—it is an immersive experience that reshapes perspectives, fosters invaluable friendships, and leaves lasting impressions. My time as a foreign exchange student was just that: an adventure that allowed me to navigate a new education system, engage with diverse cultures, and explore some of Europe’s most breathtaking destinations.
One of the most striking aspects of my academic experience was the exposure to the Western education system. Unlike traditional structured learning, this approach was more practical-oriented, encouraging on-the-spot thinking. Without a rigid course outline, each lecture unfolded organically, bringing fresh perspectives and dynamic discussions that kept the learning experience exciting and thought-provoking. The element of surprise in each lecture added an exciting dimension to learning, making every class an engaging experience filled with fresh insights and stimulating discussions.
Beyond academics, the cultural exposure was enriching in ways I had not expected. Meeting people from across the globe, forming deep friendships, and sharing traditions over meals became some of my most cherished memories. Dinners and lunches with students from different nationalities provided an opportunity to exchange stories, appreciate diverse customs, and, of course, indulge in a variety of incredible cuisines.
Travel became an integral part of my journey, allowing me to explore six European countries— France, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and Italy. In France, I was mesmerized by the Strasbourg’s Christmas Markets, a place that felt like stepping into a textbook illustration of a Christmas wonderland. Germany offered its own magic with the Cologne Christmas Market and its towering cathedral, filling the air with festive joy. Amsterdam captivated me with its poignant history as I visited the Anne Frank House and admired the city’s beauty during a canal cruise.
Poland was a humbling experience, from staying in a modest hostel in Krakow to walking through the Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps—a chilling yet necessary confrontation with the past. Belgium, on the other hand, pulsated with energy, especially at its palace square in Brussels, a place reminiscent of Mumbai, where the city never truly sleeps.
Italy was a vibrant journey—from Napoli to Florence, where I stayed in a lovely hostel in Naples and experienced the birthplace of pizza while trying my hand at making some pizza in a pizza workshop. Exploring the Castel Sant’Elmo, sipping limoncello, and indulging in pasta al pomodoro and cacio e pepe deepened my appreciation for Italian cuisine. The historical grandeur of Rome’s Colosseum, Pompeii, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa made me feel as though my school classes had come to life, allowing me to walk through the pages of my school textbooks.
Looking back, my exchange program was more than an academic opportunity—it was a gateway to profound experiences. The knowledge gained, friendships built, and places explored have shaped me in ways I never anticipated, leaving me with memories that will forever be etched in my heart.
As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am profoundly grateful to those who made it possible. My parents, whose unwavering support and encouragement gave me the confidence to embark on this adventure, have been my greatest pillars of strength. I extend my sincere appreciation to my professors at IIM Nagpur and the Université de Lille, whose guidance and wisdom enriched my academic experience and broadened my perspectives. To my peers at IIM Nagpur and the Université de Lille, thank you for the friendships, shared experiences, and moments that turned this exchange program into an unforgettable chapter in my life. The learning, camaraderie, and cultural exchanges have left an indelible mark, shaping me in ways I will cherish forever.
Abhirup is a dynamic professional with a strong foundation in computer science engineering and hands-on experience in the IT industry. He pursued his passion for business and leadership by earning an MBA from the prestigious institute IIM Nagpur. His global perspective was further enriched through a student exchange program with Université de Lille, where he gained invaluable international exposure.
