Life at ESSEC Asia-Pacific is far from routine. Each week blends academic challenge, cultural immersion, and personal growth in one of Asia’s most vibrant cities, Singapore. Here’s what a realistic, well-balanced week can look like for students on campus, based on actual student journeys.

Monday – Kicking Off with Strategy and Structure

The week often starts strong.

For students like Pauline Richards, Pablo Cohen (Master in Strategy & Management of International Business), and Tianci Gao (Master in Management), Monday mornings mean deep dives into courses such as International Business Strategy or Corporate Finance.

Lectures are rigorous yet interactive, with professors encouraging students to draw from their multicultural backgrounds to discuss global case studies.

In the afternoon, students typically break off into teams for group projects.

Meeting in the breakout rooms or grabbing bubble tea nearby, they brainstorm presentation strategies or analyse market entry data.

It’s a high-energy, collaborative environment.

Tuesday – Exploring Culture and Classrooms

By Tuesday, the rhythm is in full swing. Students like Agathe-Eleanor Masson (MiM) and Oscar Valeur (MSc in Marketing Management and Digital) use their afternoons to explore Singapore’s rich cultural spots, such as Little India, Chinatown, or even take a food tour in Geylang.

It’s not just for fun; it builds cultural intelligence that’s essential for future leaders.

Academic sessions continue, but it’s the cultural exposure that often provides the biggest lesson of the day: how to adapt, observe, and appreciate differences.

Wednesday – Career Preparation in Action

Wednesdays are a turning point. Midweek, the Career Services team brings in guest speakers, including alumni, HR managers, and consultants.

During a recent session, students heard from a Bain & Company strategist who was once in their shoes.

Marie Peng and Amna Lakdawala (MMD), who are deeply interested in branding, attend marketing masterclasses and sometimes stay back to ask questions.

Their initiatives helped them secure internships at Cartier and Hermès, respectively.

Thursday – Giving Back and Leading Forward

Thursdays often bring a shift in focus toward community and leadership.

Many students volunteer with local initiatives, such as sustainability groups or nonprofit tutoring programs.

Others, like Olivia Gunawan (Global BBA), take part in student ambassador roles, sharing insights with incoming students through events or social media.

Club meetings and planning sessions often take place in the evenings, from entrepreneurship clubs to consulting prep groups.

It’s where students test leadership in real, low-stakes environments.

Friday – Wrapping Up and Winding Down

By Friday, most students are ready for a mix of reflection and relaxation.

After finishing the week’s last lecture, they head out for dinner with classmates, explore a night market, or unwind with a movie night hosted by their student club.

These social moments are often where lifelong friendships are formed.

Students from all over the world connect over shared dreams and the occasional spicy laksa challenge.

Saturday & Sunday – Rest, Reflect, and Reset

Weekends are flexible. Some take online certifications, others go for a hike at MacRitchie Reservoir.

Students like Michel Verhasselt and Anthony Delorme (Master in Finance) use the time to journal, update their LinkedIn, or simply catch up on rest.

A week at ESSEC Asia-Pacific isn’t defined just by coursework. It’s a dynamic experience shaped by people, purpose, and place.

Every week is different, but every week brings you one step closer to becoming the kind of leader the world needs.