Across Europe, the hallways of business schools echo with diverse voices and cultures. While all offering top-tier education, these institutions reveal distinct personalities dependent on their national context.
For aspiring business students, understanding these nuances is crucial. As Guillaume Blaess, vice-director of international partnerships at Audencia in France, notes, “Cultural differences shape the academic environment.”
Some countries, like Germany and the Netherlands, favor a more traditional, lecture-driven approach. Others, like France and Spain, cultivate interactive, discussion-based learning, encouraging lively discourse in the classroom.
While English is widely used, mastering the local language俥significantly enriches the experience. “Understanding French is essential for daily life in France,” says Emilie Lagorsse, head of admissions at IÉSEG, which provides free French lessons to international students.
“The approach in Italian universities can be more traditional,” observes Rossana Camera, head of recruiting for SDA Bocconi’s masters division. “But SDA Bocconi, in Milan, has a strong focus on teaching innovation, teamwork, case studies, and real-world applications.”
Nova School of Business and Economics in Portugal also emphasizes practical application and collaborative learning, according to Alexander Michael Schmidt, a German student at the institution. “Compared to more traditional, lecture-focused methods elsewhere, there is more emphasis on collaboration and real-world problem-solving,” Schmidt explains. “Case analysis and presentations are an essential part of the curriculum.”
Beyond the classroom, cultural norms influence daily life. “You never talk about your salary with colleagues — and professionals in Germany generally have a great deal of loyalty to their employer,” says Kai Stenzel, chief marketing officer at Mannheim Business School.
Eeva Liinamo-Liukku, senior specialist in international recruitment at Aalto University in Finland, paints a picture of Finnish culture: “In Finland, we tend to be direct and honest. In social situations, we respect each other’s personal space and privacy. While we might seem a bit reserved at first, once you get to know us, you’ll find warmth and openness.”
Sebastiaan Kloppenborg, a German graduate of Iese Business School in Madrid, describes Spain as having “a more relaxed pace of life” compared to Northern Europe. He observed that “food and family are very important in the local culture.”
Maria Camila Segura Camacho, a Colombian student at Nova, noted a similar emphasis on personal time in Portugal: “Portuguese people tend to give more attention to their private and family time,” she says. “They’ll prioritize it over work, and that shows when you’re in group projects with Europeans and Americans. It’s a healthy boundary they have, and I have embraced it.”
“The French focus on work-life balance, with longer meals and a more relaxed pace, was a refreshing change from the fast-paced lifestyle … in Rwanda,” shares Shema Kazubwenge Emmanuel, a Rwandan student at Essca School of Management.
Beyond academics and culture, practical matters like healthcare systems vary across Europe. Liam Kilby, associate director for MBA admissions at Oxford Saïd in the UK, highlights the National Health Service (NHS) accessibility for international students: ‘There’s an annual fee of £776 that is paid as part of the student visa process that gives you access to all health services at no extra cost for the duration of your visa eligibility.”
Similarly, students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees in Finland receive basic health and dental care from the Finnish Student Health Service, according to Liinamo-Liukku.
European business schools offer a tapestry of experiences, each woven with unique threads. By understanding these differences, prospective students can choose an environment that best suits their academic and personal goals.
## Cracking the Code: Choosing the Right European Business School For You
**World Today News Exclusive Interview with Guillaume Blaess, Vice-Director of International Partnerships at Audencia**
**World Today News:** Europe has become a global hub for business education, with prestigious institutions offering world-class programs. But with such diversity, how can aspiring students navigate this complex landscape and choose the right fit?
**Guillaume Blaess, Vice-Director of International Partnerships at Audencia, France:** You’re absolutely right.Europe’s business schools are renowned for their excellence, but each country brings its own unique flavor to the table. Understanding these cultural nuances is paramount for prospective students. Think of it like choosing spices for a dish – each one adds a distinct zest to the overall flavor.
**WTN:** You mention “cultural nuances.” Can you elaborate on how national contexts shape the learning environment?
**GB:** certainly. Take Germany and the Netherlands, such as. They tend to favor a more conventional approach, with lectures playing a central role. This reflects a strong emphasis on structure and in-depth knowledge transmission. In contrast,France and Spain often foster interactive,discussion-based learning. Lively debates and critical thinking are encouraged, creating a dynamic classroom environment.
**WTN:** What are the implications of these different approaches for international students?
**GB:** Imagine yourself walking into a classroom. In a lecture-based system, you might find yourself absorbing knowledge primarily through the professor’s discourse. In a discussion-based system, you’ll be actively engaging with your peers, sharing perspectives, and constructing knowledge collaboratively.
**WTN:**
Does language play a significant role in the student experience?
**GB:** Absolutely! While english is widely spoken in many European business schools, mastering the local language can significantly enhance your experience. It’s about more than just academic pursuits. It unlocks a deeper understanding of the local culture, fosters stronger connections with classmates and locals, and opens doors to unique opportunities outside the classroom.
**WTN:** For students considering a French institution like Audencia, what advice would you offer?
**GB:** France offers a truly immersive experience. “Understanding French is essential for daily life,” as Emilie lag, a student at Audencia, eloquently put it. Beyond the academic benefits, it allows you to fully engage with the vibrant culture, connect with locals, and make the most of your time in France.
**WTN:** Lastly, what’s your key takeaway for aspiring business students hoping to study in europe?
**GB:** Embrace the diversity! Europe’s richness lies in its varied cultures and educational approaches. don’t just choose a school based on rankings; delve deeper, research the teaching methodologies, and consider what environment best suits your learning style and personal growth.
**WTN:** Thank you, guillaume, for sharing your insights. Your advice is invaluable for students venturing into the exciting world of European business education.
**This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity. World Today News encourages prospective business students to conduct thorough research and exploration to find the European institution that best aligns with their aspirations and learning style.**
