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Moksha Narayandas

In the fall of 2022, Moksha, a Business Administration major with a concentration in Marketing, traveled to Rouen, France to study at NEOMA Business School. She offers advice, encouragement, and perspective on her life-changing experience abroad.

Moksha enjoying the scenery of a French vineyard

Q: Why did you choose to study abroad?

A: I chose to study abroad because I have a passion for traveling and have never had the opportunity to go to Europe. I thought it would be a good idea to go, especially when I am young and in school, so that I can meet other people who are on the same journey as me. I chose Rouen specifically because of NEOMA [Business School]. It has a very good reputation for a business school and had the classes that I wanted.

Q: Did you explore any other places during your time abroad?

A: Yes. I traveled to Epernay, Bordeaux, Paris, Le Havre, Lourdes, and Mont Saint Michel. I also traveled to Lisbon, Portugal, Barcelona, Spain, and London, England.

Q: What was one of your favorite parts of the program?

A: I liked meeting new people from all over the world and traveling to different parts of France and Europe.

Q: What did studying abroad teach you?

A: It taught me so much. I was able to learn what I am capable of doing by myself and learning from the mistakes I made as well as learning about a different way of living. The work and educational culture is completely different in France. I was able to improve my French.

“[Study abroad] taught me that I am capable of doing a lot more than I think. It taught me patience and independence…”

Q: How did your study abroad experience prepare you for your future career?

A: I had to do many things alone and for the first time. I went to a new country and continent all by myself. I could not ask anyone for advice because I did not know any family members who went to Europe before me. I know more about financial management, travel tips, safety–things essential to traveling abroad. My future career is International Business, so I plan to do a lot of traveling. The classes I took in NEOMA were also helpful to understand the French way of life, and it is always good to learn about different perspectives and cultures.

Q: Were you surprised by anything during your time abroad?

A: Yes, I was surprised by the education system in France. It was more laid back and less stressful than how we teach in the US. I actually had time to do other things that I wanted to do and balance my social and academic life well. I enjoyed the structure of the classes. There were so many group projects, which were not my favorite; but it can be fun since you are working with many international students.

Q: How was the international university experience different from your experience at NC State?

A: The academic structure was completely different and, in my opinion, better. I was not stressed with many different things to do each week. The classes were long, but I only had my classes once a week. It gave me time to pursue my own interests and passions.

Moksha hanging out with friends

Q: What was it like living abroad for a semester? What did it teach you about yourself?

A: I loved living abroad for a semester. I made friends who I will never forget. It taught me that I am capable of doing a lot more than I think. It taught me patience and independence because I was oceans away from everyone I knew in a brand new country where I was not fluent in the language.

Q: What advice do you have for future study abroad students?

A: Do as much research as you can. Save your money before you study abroad. Talk to the people who studied abroad in your location before you.

Are you interested in having your own semester abroad experience?