Nongainéba Benjamin

Home country : Burkina Faso (Ouagadougou)
Training : Independent student in 2nd year of Master (Management and Strategy, at Eiffel School of Management [IAE])
Hobbies : football, reggae music






What are the main differences you observed between UPEC and your university?
Teaching methods are very different at UPEC. I noticed teachers were more available, for example, and the relationship between teachers and students is also less hierarchical. I really felt supported and emulated by the teacher’s endeavor to share their knowledge. The courses are also different: in Burkina Faso, my courses were very professionalizing and we did a lot of practice, although there was no close relationship to business. With the IAE, I was introduced to methodology and theory. Also, some of our courses are given by professionals. Some companies, such as IPSOS and ACCENTURE, have sent teams to UPEC just to exchange with the students. What I really liked was the interventions of PR from private companies.

Why UPEC?
It’s quite funny. I once had to make a presentation about corporate strategy. I did a lot of research, and found a very interesting text about strategy, by Gérard Koening. When I saw he was teaching at UPEC’s IAE, I decided to apply. He was one of my teachers at UPEC.

A funny story about your stay?
I can always tell when someone from Africa is struggling with the metro, the inscriptions and the like. This was no problem for me, thanks to some friends. So, whenever I can, I help them.

Did you enjoy your spare time in Paris?
Due to my schedule, I mostly worked during the week. But on weekends, I go to the cinema, play football or have a drink with some friends. I also visited a bit. For example, I went to Bordeaux and really enjoyed the old Port.

What did you gain from your stay?
So much. I learned to adapt and go beyond my expectations. Reading about a country is whole different thing from actually living in it.

A tip for foreign students?
Prepare yourself!