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From Innovative Thinking To Networking: How Immersive Projects Advance Your Career

Find out how gaining practical experiences during your MBA can lead to advancing your career

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Tue Jul 23 2024

BusinessBecause
In today's fast-paced and ever-changing business environment, the ability to merge theoretical knowledge with practical application is crucial. 

Through immersive experiences, business schools give students a unique opportunity to practically apply the in-depth business knowledge they gain in class, whether it's through case studies, internships, or global immersion trips. 

At emlyon business school, the International MBA (IMBA) program prioritzes building students’ real world business sense through unique immersive learning experiences.

These projects, along with robust industry connections and hands-on experiences, equip students with the necessary skills and networks to thrive in their careers.


The Power of Challenge Learning Projects

A hallmark of the emlyon IMBA program is its Challenge Learning Projects, initiatives that enable students to apply classroom theory to real-world business challenges. 

IMBA alumna and Indian native, Varsha Kalanja (pictured), took part in the three-month New Venture Project, where teams are tasked with creating a business from the ground up. Participating elevated her business skills–both soft and hard–while also developing her business understanding and communication skills. 

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"The goal was to start our own ventures from conception to creation, going through the same steps as a founder would. This was incredibly insightful as it helped us understand the intricacies of launching a business, including the potential pitfalls," she says. 

Before emlyon, Varsha was an iOS developer and IT project manager at Microsoft. This provided a strong foundation in business, but she sought a deeper understanding of the business world. 

“I was working at Microsoft for a little over three and a half years. I really loved what I was doing. I had amazing projects, but I knew that there was something missing. I wanted a very formal education in terms of business and that's when I decided to do my MBA,” she explains. 

During the New Venture Project, Varsha and her team worked to create an environmental waste solution, conducting hands-on research while speaking with local florists, shopkeepers, and residents about their waste segregation practices. 

“This hands-on research was invaluable," she says. 

Through such projects, emlyon students like Varsha learn to navigate the complexities of team dynamics, market research, and problem-solving.

“There’s a bit of diplomacy involved as you need to consider everyone’s opinions equally. That was challenging at first but as the class went on we adjusted and our teamwork flowed smoother.” 


Leveraging Industry Connections

One of the standout features of the emlyon IMBA program is its extensive network of industry connections, who offer students access to top professionals and companies across various sectors. 

"It's much easier to connect with people from emlyon because of its well-established reputation. The alumni network spans industries such as finance, construction, and tech, making it a powerful resource for networking and career advancement," Varsha says.

The program also provides various networking events where students can engage with industry leaders and alumni. These events offer opportunities to ask questions, gain insights, and build relationships which can be instrumental in future career paths.

“It's pretty easy to connect with people from emlyon. It was great to have people from the same community that you could connect to, and we had networking events where you could speak to people and they would share experiences," says Varsha.


The Interactive Learning Trip

A unique aspect of the emlyon IMBA is the Learning Trip, which offers students the chance to visit different companies and gain insights into various industries. During the trip, Varsha and her cohort visited several startups focused on sustainability and green initiatives. 

This gave her a new perspective on business: “It was a great experience for us to see what they do, and how businesses vary depending on countries and different cultures.” 

The Learning Trip is designed to complement the Challenge Learning Projects by exposing students to real-world business environments. This immersive experience enhances their learning and provides a significant return on investment (ROI) by broadening their perspectives and expanding their professional networks.


The ROI of the emlyon IMBA

Investing in an MBA is a significant decision and ROI is a critical factor for prospective students that involves more than just finances–knowledge, connections, and experiences gained are also crucial. 

Now graduated from emlyon, Varsha is working in the IT industry in France. She feels the IMBA has given her an understanding of business and the ability to future-proof her projects and career. 

"Something I learned from my MBA is to think ahead, and not just focus on the current work that you're implementing. I specialized in product management and I now have a strong view about implementing projects and how to predict how it's going to evolve in the future.”

The MBA curriculum offers a unique blend of innovative thinking, practical experience, and valuable networking opportunities. This prepares students to excel in their careers by providing the tools and connections they need to succeed in the global business landscape.

Providing strong industry ties and hands-on learning, the emlyon IMBA’s immersive projects ensure graduates are well-equipped to navigate and excel in their chosen careers.

Varsha has found this particularly true in her new career in France. 

“The MBA experience taught me to be accommodating towards people, their experiences, and their background. I work with a lot of international clients, and I am able to be much more open and understanding of people and their experiences because of the MBA.”

Student Reviews

emlyon business school

Student

Verified

4/12/2023

On Campus

Intense courses, helpful professors

I am an international student in my 3rd year and I love going to this school and do not regret chosing it for my BBA. The classes are helpful, professors are always there to help as well and we have a very understanding administration.

Student

Verified

18/03/2023

On Campus

Leadership in an amazing city

I decided to do my exchange in Emlyon because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone, and I found a space with very capable People.. participatory, empathetic and full of leadership. I will never forget Lyon, apart from giving me an unforgettable experience, he gave me great friends

Student

Verified

23/11/2021

On Campus

A lot of opportunities professionally and socially. A unique program in France.

You can choose your courses and do your internship, exchange whenever you want. It's flexible and adapted to the needs of each student. A great program and a great city! Professionally, it opens a lot of doors for you to find internships or jobs in France or abroad thanks to the network and career events.

Fabian

Verified

7/06/2020

MSc in Digital Marketing

Combining both worlds into one, this course gave me all the on-demand technical skills in data science while maintaining a business-oriented approach. Thanks to the strong academic profile of this university I was able to secure an internship and full-time job at Amazon.

Student

Verified

14/10/2018

Top Business School fostering innovative entrepreneurs

EMLyon is one of the best business schools. The campuses, associations and courses offered provide the students with the best options to build the future they have chosen. The various opportunities to study and work abroad also offer a deeper understanding of the world, not only economy-wise but social, which helps the student become as well a better individual and not only a pre-formated business school student.

Student

Verified

9/06/2020

Emlyon campus in Paris

It has a great international community and you have access to many international tools, courses and professors. I had many networking events and workshops for students. Campus and some details of the program could have been improved or need to be bigger in order to have a better student life.

Student

Verified

21/11/2022

On Campus

Entrepreneurship

Overall good content and good activities. Lack of administration but still ok. Good flexibility and liberty offered to the students. Finally, the amount of internship is also a good way to improve qualifications.

Student

Verified

25/05/2020

Good Reputation and International Business School

The course was not well adapted but it was up to the mark. The professors are very well experienced and their experience comes in handy while working on assignments. The facilities on the campus are top class. Truly professional. I really like spending time in the learning hub and using all the available resources. Lyon is an amazing city. You will never get bored.

Edel

Verified

11/07/2024

On Campus

MSc International Hospitality Management

The best educational experience of my life so far! It’s been full of exposure and great connections. From Lyon to London, Paris, Los Angeles and Las Vegas! Truly an exceptional way to discover the world of hospitality.

Student

Verified

11/07/2024

On Campus

Real networking opportunities

- meeting new people, specially professionals during seminars or evening meeting at school. - going abroad to study luxury - being involved as an ambassador to promote the school and the program I was into (MSc LMM) - having such a great professional core

Daphné

Verified

14/07/2024

On Campus

white baccalaureate in the world of work

I really appreciated the MS SDAI as a whole. The teaching staff, the different subjects, the university exchange, TEM... I started my internship in a consulting firm having acquired a solid foundation. Downside for CentraleSupélec, which I found far too academic for a program such as this.

Student

Verified

11/09/2024

On Campus

Great

Pretty great ! Emlyon business school is a top educational institution known for its outstanding academic programs, nurturing environment, and state-of-the-art facilities. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and leadership in students.

Student

Verified

6/02/2025

On Campus

Emlyon makes us confident!

Since I got into emlyon business school in September 2024, I’ve had many occasions to discover various subjects, but also to gain confidence and strength in several fields. Our « ADN » classes involve active participation and teamwork which enlighten our everyday life here in Lyon. Teachers are welcoming and available, classes are dispensed in small rooms, all of this turning our studies into a real life experience. As a top business school in France and in Europe, rest assured that this programme will take you to places you never had the chance to go to.

Student

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

Worldwide School

If you're looking for a school with an international perspective, emlyon is the place to be. Academic exchange and double-degree opportunities are widely varied around the globe, and the school has 4 international campuses.

Jeremy

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

Warm welcome

emlyon is one of France's top business schools, offering a wide range of programs and masters degrees that allow students from all backgrounds to perfect their skills. Students are very friendly and student life is dynamic with 42 associations (art, culture, finance...). With the inauguration of its new campus, the school also offers students a highly advantageous working environment right in the heart of Lyon.

Student

Verified

6/02/2025

On Campus

Experience at emlyon

My experience in emlyon business school was nothing but fantastic. The professors are very knowledgeable and helpful and are the best in the field to guide you to build your future self. The campus life is also really great and you get to meet amazing people!

Jenny

Verified

6/02/2025

On Campus

A Global and Data-driven Learning Experience

As an international student from Taiwan, currently studying Digital Marketing & Data Science at Emlyon Business School's Paris campus, my experience has been both challenging and rewarding. 1. Academics & Curriculum The program is highly data-driven, integrating real-world marketing strategies with technical skills like Python, SQL, and machine learning. Professors bring industry expertise and often collaborate with companies, making classes interactive and practical. 2. Campus & Student Life The Paris campus is a great location for networking, surrounded by top companies and start-up ecosystems. There are plenty of career events, hackathons, and networking opportunities, which have helped me connect with professionals in my field. 3. International Student Experience Coming from Taiwan, Emlyon provides a diverse and global environment. The school supports international students well, but navigating administrative processes (like visas and housing) can sometimes be challenging. However, the student community is welcoming, and there are many activities and student initiatives to engage with. 4. Overall Impression I think Emlyon is a great choice for students looking for an innovative, hands-on learning experience in business and technology. While some courses could benefit from even more structure, the real-world projects, industry collaborations, and international environment make it a strong business school for aspiring digital professionals.

Ambrine

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

Very Good Program and Life-Changing Opportunities

I was truly delighted with my program as it provided me with valuable knowledge and skills. The campus is outstanding, offering an inspiring and welcoming environment for students. Moreover, my program opened up new professional opportunities that I would never have been able to access without completing this Master's degree in Strategy in International Business Development (in partnership with CentraleSupélec). I highly recommend this school to anyone seeking a transformative academic experience!

Nelia

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

BBA1 EM Lyon business school

This is my first year at EM Lyon and one of the first factors that makes me love my school is its campus. The location, the layout of the premises, the exteriors... all the facilities are functional and largely allow students to flourish in their studies (very large library, individual and collaborative workspaces, fully equipped rooms that can be booked, catering and relaxation areas, roof... everything is there!) Also, what I particularly appreciate is the format of the courses which combines practice with theory. My program is intended to be very professionalizing, so we have courses and modules that put us in real situations, the professors and external speakers are for the most part people in professional activities in companies which allows us to benefit from concrete illustrations and notable anecdotes. The classes are not very numerous, offering us an opportunity for interaction and group work. In addition to the courses, the school has many very advantageous partnerships for internships and academic exchanges. In addition, the school offers many conferences and workshops at the Makerslab that allow us to educate ourselves and learn new things. Finally, my program is internationally oriented and that is one of the reasons why I chose it: internships and academic exchange abroad. Finally, student life is a real added value for us since the associative life occupies a preponderant place in our course due to the variety of associations, the premises that are reserved but especially the budget that is allocated.

Jeanne

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

Makers Spirit

Emlyon business school is a incredible university, i've been able to learn a lot of informations, and making contacts and meet a lot of people. The courses are very interesting and i'm looking foward to earn more experiences (academic or professional).This school gave me huge opportunities and still do, I intend to take them and use them, this school change my life, and me as a character. I want to make it known to as many people as possible, and grow the makers spirit!

Student

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

Digital Marketing and Data Science

Courses are practical, and the program is intensive. We have so many tasks need to fulfill. I love the school provide many career and alumni resources. And also give us many opportunities to approach to different fields.

Student

Verified

7/02/2025

On Campus

Current Student

Likes: abundant resources the network of alumni is really healpful wonderful location (center Paris) a lot of interesting lectures and company visits the school opens until 2200, great for studying Dislike: not enough spaces to study some study rooms are toooooo cold some classrooms have limited access to charge and the air is stagnant