Exchange Report

For future outgoing students, it is very important to gather detailed information in advance about the courses you would like to take. You should carefully review the course catalogue and plan your choices early. Additionally, make sure to be active and punctual during the registration process at ESSEC, as popular courses tend to fill up quickly and spots are limited. When preparing for your semester abroad, I would strongly recommend finding accommodation in Paris itself. Although living in Paris can be more expensive, most Erasmus students stay there, which makes it easier to socialize and fully experience student life. It is also possible to apply for housing benefits (CAF – Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) online. However, be aware that the process can be slow and not always reliable, as administrative procedures in France may take a long time.

Finding accommodation in Paris can be quite challenging, so it is important to be proactive and use multiple platforms during your search. It is advisable to check various housing portals and apply to as many options as possible to increase your chances. When choosing a location, I recommend making sure that your accommodation is close to the RER A line or otherwise well connected to public transportation. This makes it much easier to commute to Cergy and saves a lot of time in daily travel. In terms of accommodation type, I personally found a place through Airbnb, but there are also other options such as student residences or private rentals. However, finding accommodation outside of official platforms can be difficult, as many landlords in France require a French guarantor, which can be a major obstacle for international students.

The academic culture and teaching style differ in some ways from WU Vienna. One noticeable aspect is that the level of difficulty and workload varies significantly between courses. Some courses require a considerable amount of time and effort, while others are less demanding. For course selection, I would recommend planning your schedule strategically. It is best to arrange your classes so that they are grouped into as few days as possible. Otherwise, commuting to campus every day can become very time-consuming and tiring.

Public transportation in Paris is very well developed and generally reliable. The metro, RER, and bus systems make it easy to get around the city and surrounding areas. A monthly public transport ticket costs around €88, and unfortunately, there are no significant discounts available for students. However, it is important to pay attention to the area you live in and the routes you take, especially in the evening. Not all metro stations or neighborhoods feel equally safe at night, and this also applies to areas such as Cergy. Therefore, planning your routes in advance and being mindful of your surroundings is advisable.

Paris is an impressive and vibrant city that offers a unique atmosphere for studying abroad. One of the highlights of my exchange was meeting many international students, not only from Europe but from all over the world. This made the experience especially enriching both academically and personally.