Spring in Nice: a semester at IPAG that changed everything
Maria Khmeleva, a fourth-year student of the Marketing and Market Analytics program, shares her impressions of her spring semester abroad at the French business school IPAG Business School. Studying in English, student life, traveling along the Côte d’Azur, and, most importantly, overcoming inner barriers — this experience turned out to be truly transformative for her.
The spring semester as part of the academic mobility program became one of the most vivid and meaningful chapters of my life. I studied at the French business school IPAG Business School, Nice campus, through a program offered by my home university — HSE Graduate School of Business — and this experience gave me not only new knowledge but also a sense of confidence that will stay with me for a long time.
When I first found out that all classes would be conducted entirely in English, I was worried — what if it would be too difficult? But in practice, it turned out to be not so scary after all. The most important thing is to overcome your inner barrier and just start speaking. I noticed that once you stop being afraid of making mistakes and simply start engaging in conversation, the process becomes much easier — and even enjoyable.
The professors at IPAG were incredibly professional and approachable. Many of them came from different countries — Ireland, Germany — but all lectures were conducted in English. And you know what? I could understand almost everything! Each lecture came with presentation slides, so I could review the material calmly at home. And if something remained unclear, the professors were always willing to help and answer any questions. Thanks to regular attendance, active listening, and participation in discussions, I had no problems passing my exams.
I’d especially like to highlight the atmosphere at the school. IPAG doesn’t stop at just the academic process — it creates a space for communication, integration, and new experiences. For example, the school organized a Ski Trip to the French Alps (self-funded but fully arranged by the school). It was a whole week of skiing, parties, and socializing. This experience helped me feel like part of the student community in France and make friends from all over the world.
In addition, there were frequent charity events and informal parties that brought together nearly the entire business school. These gatherings allowed us to get to know each other better and simply enjoy time together outside of classes.
And Nice itself is the perfect place for traveling! Since we didn’t have classes on weekends, we had plenty of time for short trips. I managed to explore the entire Côte d’Azur: Cannes, Antibes, Villefranche, Monaco, Menton, and even visited Italy and Spain. Nice's geographic location makes this super convenient, and every trip brought a sea — and even an ocean — of new impressions. I'm sure these are the stories I’ll one day tell my children and grandchildren!
I want to sincerely thank my home university — HSE Graduate School of Business — for this opportunity. This semester was the best thing that’s happened to me in recent years. It gave me not only knowledge, but also self-confidence, new friendships, emotions, and a feeling that the world is open.
My advice to anyone considering academic mobility: don’t hesitate for a second! It’s an experience you simply can’t put a price on. Just go for it — and be brave!
Still having doubts? Then I’m attaching some photos from my life there — and when I look at them, I still can’t believe what an incredible opportunity we have as students of HSE Graduate School of Business.
