Martin’s international experience, from Dublin to Boston
Studying abroad, discovering a new culture, becoming more independent and refining his career plans… That is exactly what Martin Bee, a Master in Management student at EM Normandie, had the opportunity to experience. From his daily life on the Dublin campus to his memorable experience at UMass Boston, he looks back on a journey full of discoveries, encounters and lessons learned.
Martin’s experience at EM Normandie
Could you introduce yourself (first name, course, campus, year of study)?
My name is Martin Bee, I’m 19 years old and I’m currently in my third year of Master in Management, on the Dublin campus.
Why did you choose EM Normandie?
I chose EM Normandie primarily for the variety of its courses and the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects. What attracted me to the school was precisely its ability to provide a broad enough framework to explore several fields, develop new skills and refine my career path over time. I was also drawn to the wide choice of tracks and the school's strong international focus.
How would you describe the atmosphere and student life?
In Dublin, I find the atmosphere very friendly and welcoming. It’s a campus where students get to know one another quite easily, which quickly builds a real sense of community. This makes student life particularly enjoyable, as we spend a lot of time together, both in and out of class. It’s a real bonus when studying abroad, as you quickly feel part of the community.
Which skills have you developed most during your career?
Throughout my career, I have particularly developed my ability to express myself in public. Working in an international environment encourages you to speak up more, interact with people from all backgrounds and build your self-confidence. I have also learnt to adapt to new living and working environments, which is an essential skill in business today.
Moving to another country, getting to grips with new customs and settling in allows you to grow quickly, both personally and academically.
Do you have a memorable moment or experience to share?
My journey is full of memorable moments, but one of the most significant was the chance to celebrate Thanksgiving with American friends in Maine whilst I was living in Boston. It was a remarkable experience, as it allowed me to experience this iconic tradition from the insider's perspective, in an authentic and warm setting. Beyond being a mere memory, this moment represents for me everything that makes an international experience so valuable: discovering a culture in a different way, through real encounters and shared moments of life.
What are your career plans for the future?
Today, I’m looking ahead to a career in international marketing. I particularly enjoy working as part of a team, developing collaborative projects and working in an environment where ideas are freely exchanged and debated. My various experiences abroad have strengthened this ambition and also comforted me in my choice of Master’s degree.
What would you say to a potential student hesitating to join the school?
I would tell them that EM Normandie is a school that offers opportunities for growth in many areas and provides the tools to build a career path step by step. It’s an environment where you can experiment, explore, learn and get to know yourself better. For anyone who is still unsure about their career path or who wants to develop within an open and supportive environment, it’s a real opportunity.
The school offers a wide range of resources and experiences to help everyone find their own path.
A memorable experience living abroad in the United States
During his studies, Martin also gained valuable international experience when he joined UMass Boston in the United States. Between campus life, new teaching methods and immersion in a different way of life, this time abroad broadened his horizons and strengthened his desire to build a career overseas.
Which country and which university/campus did you go to?
I went to the United States, to UMass Boston, and I absolutely loved the experience. Studying at an American university was a unique opportunity for me, academically, personally and culturally. It gave me the chance to discover a new academic environment, while also experiencing everyday life on an American campus to the full, with the pace, the people and the immersion that comes with it.
Why did you pick this place in particular?
I chose this destination because I wanted to experience campus life in the United States, which is something many people dream of and which is very different from what you might find elsewhere. I was also hugely attracted to the city of Boston. It has a very strong academic reputation, with a particularly stimulating student atmosphere. For me, it was a choice that was both in line with my ambitions and very motivating on a personal level.
What differences have you noticed in teaching methods?
One of the main differences I’ve noticed is the emphasis placed on speaking up in class. In the US, students are much more involved, and interactions with teachers are often more direct and occur more frequently. I’ve also discovered different forms of assessment, particularly one-to-one oral exams with lecturers. This changes the way you learn: you have to be more engaged, better prepared and more confident in defending your ideas. It’s demanding, but also very valuable.
What did you learn, both academically and personally, during this experience?
From an academic perspective, this experience allowed me to explore new subjects, such as ethical and social management, or even business management. These courses gave me a fresh perspective on how organisations operate and on some of the key issues facing the professional world. On a personal level, this time spent abroad has, above all, helped me to grow as a person, step outside my comfort zone, and confirm my interest in international environments.
How were you adjusting to the new environment (culture, language, daily life)?
I settled in very well. I quickly felt at home thanks to a group of friends living in the same dormitory as me. Together, we studied, shared our daily lives and explored Boston. Having people around me right from the start made it much easier for me to settle in, both socially and practically.
Have you developed any particular skills or a broader outlook as a result of living abroad?
Yes, definitely. Living abroad has helped me become more open-minded, but it has also allowed me to experience things I probably wouldn’t have otherwise. In particular, I was lucky enough to be part of the university’s Cross Country Track and Field team. Having running training sessions as part of my daily routine allowed me to discover another side of campus life, based on commitment, discipline, team spirit and pushing oneself to the limit.
Can you share a memorable moment from your stay?
One particularly memorable experience was my second cross-country race. The day before the competition, I had the chance to head to the hotel with the team to get ready together and take part in a team meeting. It was a special moment, as it combined pre-race focus, team spirit and the feeling of being a full part of the team.
How has this experience influenced your plans for an international career?
This experience had a very tangible impact on my career plans. It made me aware that I wanted to work abroad on a long-term basis.
Living and studying in another country has shown me that I thrive in international environments, where you have to adapt, communicate and grow alongside people from different cultures. Today, this aspiration has become a clear direction for my future career.
International experience: a catalyst for career progression
Through his experiences in Dublin and Boston, Martin perfectly illustrates what an international experience can bring to a student’s journey: greater self-confidence, a better understanding of oneself, a strong sense of cultural openness, and a clearer vision of one’s professional future. His story reflects the wealth of opportunities offered by EM Normandie to those who wish to turn their studies into a genuine personal and academic adventure.
