Beyond Bonjour: Navigating Academia And Culture From IIM Nagpur To Europe

Embarking on the enthralling expedition of a student exchange program was initially met with scepticism, a common sentiment among my peers on campus. Little did I anticipate that this sojourn would not only redefine my academic pursuits but also sculpt a paradigm shift in the very fabric of my being. The inaugural fortnight was a labyrinth of bewilderment as I navigated the unfamiliar contours of a French-speaking haven. Basic tasks, such as procuring a loaf of bread, became odysseys in linguistic acrobatics. The once daunting "Bonjour", "Comment ça va," "Merci" and "Au revoir" evolved from alien utterances to cherished colloquial companions, symbolizing my metamorphosis in a foreign linguistic terrain.
Immersed in a distinctive educational milieu, I unravelled the tapestry of an application-based learning system. Gone were the days of conventional pen-and-paper assessments; instead, I encountered impromptu challenges demanding the practical application of acquired knowledge—simulating the dynamism of the corporate realm. The classroom, a microcosm of diversity, pulsated with perspectives from students hailing from diverse corners of the globe. Professors, adorned with the laurels of real-world CEOs, CFAs, and CMOs, bestowed upon us a unique blend of theoretical wisdom and experiential sagacity, fostering an environment ripe for insightful discourse.
The European escapade unfolded a montage of experiences spanning 14-15 cities, each a vignette in the grand tapestry of my exchange odyssey. Italy, a gastronomic haven, unveiled the art of savouring "mamma-mia" moments alongside the finest pizzas, forever redefining my palate. Luxembourg, a bastion of humility and opulence, showcased the harmonious coexistence of affluence and modesty. Notably, stumbling upon the headquarters of an Indian conglomerate, Arcelor Mittal, in a distant land evoked a swell of national pride. Museum corridors and historic landmarks etched indelible memories, with "The Arc de Triomphe" and the resplendent "Sacré-Coeur Basilica" standing testament to the rich tapestry of European history. A serene boat tour through the canals of Bruges, Belgium, added a poetic cadence to my cultural immersion. In retrospect, this transcontinental traverse wasn't merely an academic venture but a profound odyssey of self-discovery. The exchange program not only broadened my intellectual horizons but also cultivated a newfound appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. As the curtain descends on this transformative chapter, I stand testament to the profound impact it has had on my personal and academic evolution—a decision that resonates as the zenith of my collegiate journey.

Prahi Gupta, hailing from Abohar in Punjab, overcame septicaemia from birth, showcasing tenacity and acquired immunity. A rebel against societal norms, she graduated as an engineer from Jaypee University and earned international recognition for her her artistic skills in Piccasso Art Contest.  Prahi is a published writer on women empowerment, a Quality Control & Assurance Engineer, and a compassionate mentor for underprivileged girls. Her transformative stint at IIM Nagpur and an internship at TVS Credit paved the way for her current role as a Management Trainee at Aditya Birla Capital, embodying resilience and commitment to societal betterment.