Global Short Program: Two weeks in the City of Light!!!

In the recent summer, I was fortunate enough to take part in the Artificial Intelligence and Financial Technology short program subject exchange at the Paris School of Business. I was interested in studying financial technology as an exchange elective to gain credit toward my finance major. Although the experience was so much for than just study. I made connections with people I hope to never lose contact with and memories that will never leave me. In this regard, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to live and study closely with a group of new people. We became close instantly and filled up every moment together with exciting new experiences. My favourite cultural activities included the climb up the Arc de Triomphe, a visit to the Palace of Versailles and exploring the neighbourhood Mont Martre, which boasts the Sacre Coeur and panoramic views of Paris.

We were a group of 20 studying across two different course options, and we had our own apartment room each in a hotel just a 15 minute walk from the campus. We indulged in a gourmet buffet breakfast every morning and free lunch at the cafeteria. In our time away from study, we enjoyed the multitude of cultural experiences planned for us and in our free time we explored all the streets and corners of Paris we could fit in.

The course itself deepened my understanding of financial technology and artificial intelligence in a business context. The structure of lessons was very different to Australia as learning was far more self-directed. We were asked to inform our lecturers of the areas we were specifically interested in, and they would teach from there. This style of learning took a little adjusting to, but I eventually leant right into the more informal style of the lesson.

Two weeks in Paris was enough time to become very familiar with the city and at times, even feel like a local. I appreciated the opportunity to live and study in a foreign city rather than visiting as a tourist. The experience felt more authentic, and I was able to form a real sense of belonging in Paris. I could not be more grateful for the experience I had in Paris, it was two of the best weeks of my life and I only wish it was longer.

Emily Sheppard
UTS Business School
Paris School of Business in France
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient