Introduction
Can you introduce yourself in a few words?
My name is Emma Mordant, I am 20 years old, and I am currently in my third year of the Grande École Program at Paris School of Business.
Why did you choose to go on an exchange at San Francisco State University?
First of all, I absolutely wanted to go to the United States. For me, coming back bilingual from my exchange was essential and a great asset for both my studies and life in general. I chose San Francisco because it was the city that attracted me the most, whether it was the atmosphere, the places to visit like Alcatraz (a must-see), or the ease of traveling to other places like Oakland or Muirwood Park.
Exchange preparation and support
How did Paris School of Business support you in preparing and carrying out your international exchange?
The school supported me from start to finish, from choosing my courses to helping me settle in once I arrived.
How was your arrival there? What were your first impressions?
My arrival was a bit stressful. After a long flight, I arrived in San Francisco where there was a lot of fog and rain. At first, I didn’t feel at home, and the first month was actually a bit tough. But after a few weeks of adjustment, things got much better. I went out often, and the courses were interesting.
Campus life and academic experience
Can you tell us about life on campus and the university atmosphere?
What you see on TV and in series is not a lie; the campus is literally a city on its own. Every day, activities are organized by student associations, and anyone can participate, regardless of their study level or country of origin. At first, Americans are somewhat distant from international students, probably because of the language barrier, but some don’t hesitate to make connections! The campus is so huge, though, that you can’t be afraid of walking.
What differences did you notice between the American education system and that of Paris School of Business?
I think this is the most important point, and the one I noticed most when I got there. The school and the studies are very different between our two countries. In the U.S., students are much more independent and have to take responsibility for themselves. Tardiness isn’t noted, and the evaluation methods are fairly simple, often in the form of multiple-choice questions.
What courses did you take, and what stood out to you in these teachings?
The course that impacted me the most was the negotiation class, with a professor who had worked at Apple for over 30 years and had negotiated many projects there. She had a lot of experience and gave us advice in every class. The lessons were interactive, and we discussed and debated a lot.
Cultural experiences and personal/professional impact
What cultural experiences stood out to you in San Francisco?
I went to see a Golden State Warriors game against the Lakers at the Chase Center. The atmosphere was incredible, and there was always entertainment. The match itself was fantastic. I also got to experience the Día de Los Muertos, a Mexican holiday dedicated to the deceased. The costumes and colorful makeup were amazing, and there was a parade of dancers and floats in the city's Mexican district.
What do you take away from this experience, both academically and personally?
I achieved my goal of returning bilingual to France, and I made some great friends. I also really appreciated the American mindset, which is all about living in the moment and enjoying life.
How has this exchange enriched your career path and professional projects?
Today, thanks to this experience, I feel capable of working internationally, which is something I would love to do.
What advice would you give to students considering an exchange at San Francisco State University?
For those who want to experience American life on a typical American campus, meet lots of people, and attend interesting classes, this is definitely the right destination. However, it’s important to keep in mind that San Francisco is not New York. I visited New York, and the two cities are very different—New York is much larger and more lively. Many businesses in San Francisco suffered during the COVID pandemic, and some neighborhoods are still struggling to regain their vitality. However, I still have wonderful memories of my time there, and I think it’s an experience worth having at least once in a lifetime.