Exploring business frontiers: MSc IMBD students’ journey in Sweden
The students of the MSc in International Marketing & Business Development had the opportunity to visit Sweden during their international seminar in December, as part of their global journey. They discovered an inspiring country, where happiness, innovation, internationalization, and sustainability are key in the business environment. This article provides a glimpse into this enriching experience, featuring an interview with Raoul CHABIL, a student from the MSc in International Marketing & Business Development, sharing insights and reflections from the seminar.
Can you please introduce yourself?
My name is Raoul CHABIL and I’m from France. I am currently in my fifth year at emlyon business school, pursuing the MSc in International Marketing & Business Development after completing the Global BBA program at the same school.
My experience at emlyon has been enjoyable so far, as it makes me understand there is no limits and everything is achievable when you are involved and passionate. When joining a business school, you are face with two choices: you can either have unrealistic expectations and wait for the school to “magically” draw your path, or you can take your future into your hands and start making now
Displaying the emlyon badge on your resume is a guarantee of quality for recruiters, it states your commitment to the future and signals to recruiters that you aspire to be an efficient and reliable business partner.
Why did you choose the MSc in IMBD for your studies?
After graduating from the Global BBA, I was looking to expand my network worldwide for future projects and specialize in my areas of interest, which revolve around marketing and business development.
I felt like jumping straight in the professional world was a significant step after four years of an academic focus. Thus, I wanted to enhance my knowledge, my soft and hard skills to unlock the best professional opportunities available. In my opinion, this is a way to save time and energy, especially when aiming for demanding positions like Marketing or Sales Manager roles in multinational companies.
Another compelling factor to join this program was the thrill of studying in a cohort made of 21 different nationalities. The diversity in perspectives, with people from varied walks of life, challenged conventional notions of what is considered "normal." It led me to question whether "normal" is a valid concept or merely a social and cultural construct that tricks our minds into perceiving anything different from our accustomed norms as inferior.
How was the international seminar in Sweden and what did you prefer?
First of all, it is important to recognize the dedication of our program director, who tirelessly ensured we would enjoy insightful company visits and opened doors for internship and jobs opportunities for us. Furthermore, our program coordinator’s passion and devotion were really palpable throughout trip.
Upon our arrival in Sweden, we took part in a Scavenger hunt, organized by Felipe a Colombian student but also a movie producer. This engaging city-wide game was an excellent way to discover the city and the “Lagom” culture.
The subsequent days included a fascinating company visit to Electrolux with Paul PALMSTEDT, Head of External Corporate Communications & Affairs, and a behind-the-scenes exploration of Volvo commercials in the mountains with Stefan HUGOSSON, the Marketing and Event Director.
A free morning on Wednesday allowed us to soak in the enchanting Christmas atmosphere and explore local stores who sold some Glögg – a beverage somewhat different from our good old French take on “Vin chaud”. The visit also included a trip to the ABBA Museum, an integral part of Swedish culture. Later that day, the Head of the French embassy in Sweden, Olivier CUNY, provided insights into Franco-Scandinavian partnerships. His testimony was interesting because our president Mr. MACRON came to visit him less than a month after his presentation.
The next day, we were introduced to a partner of the French CCI in Sweden, Jam Malmborg who also has the position Global Sales Excellence for Dassault Systems 3D. We became aware of the phenomenal progresses achieved in France Technosphere, I couldn’t believe Dassault SaaS is used for all iPhone and planes conception. The afternoon included a visit to KISTA Science Hub, Sweden's largest incubator for innovative startups. We were welcomed with nice Swedish cakes and then went on discussing how a portion of Swedish taxpayers’ money is reinvested in financing promising projects, which can change the way we consume, recycle, or think in a first place.
Friday featured a visit to Schneider Electric, where Charly LUPART and Valentin MONTEIRO, two ambitious French professionals, highlighted the company's leadership and sustainability efforts. They showcased the compatibility of being both an industry leader and the most sustainable company in the world. Schneider helps optimize energy distribution in buildings thanks to AI powered system. The visit concluded with a Marketing Challenge, won by the best social media post on our visit, posted on LinkedIn. The day concluded at Group SEB with Charles Hubert de Montbel, the group general manager in Scandinavia, who warmly welcomed us with good food and drinks, shared his vision, objectives, and branding strategy, engaging us with his passion and insights into the group's potential.
Can you share a story of the time you have spent in Sweden?
It was funny to see most of our Chinese fellows discovering snow for the first time of their life! Their childlike excitement and awe were not only adorable but also served as a reminder that, despite having spent most of our lives in different corners of the world, we share these delightful moments together.
How will this international travel be an asset for the rest of your academic and professional journey? What did you learn?
Along with the program, the people and the opportunities opened, I am super glad to be part of this experience. I cannot wait to discover Vietnam in a couple of months, as we will study there for 3 months for our international term, both in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh all the while working with local companies to strengthen and develop their position on Asian market.
Sweden is adding to the long list of countries I have visited, studied, or worked in during my previous four years at emlyon business school. This unparalleled international exposure is allowing me to become a solid #EarlyMakers able to deliver value anytime, anywhere for any company I judge aligned with my values and aspirations.
