A Multicultural Academic Background

Mara Mittelman, a French student in the ESSEC Master in Strategy & Management of International Business (SMIB) program, has always pursued excellence in education. Her journey began at IÉSEG School of Management in Paris, where she earned a double degree in International Business and Law. Seeking broader international exposure, she completed a Master’s in Management at McGill University, solidifying her passion for strategy.

Now in her final year at ESSEC, Mara has moved from the Cergy campus to Singapore, fully embracing the global learning opportunities the SMIB program provides.

Choosing ESSEC and the SMIB Program

Mara was drawn to ESSEC Business School due to its reputation as a top-tier French business school with an international focus.

“I was determined to join a prestigious institution known for its excellence in strategy and management.”

Her passion for strategy, nurtured during her time in Canada, made the SMIB program a natural fit. The program’s course offerings, which span areas such as finance, data analysis, and negotiation, aligned with her career aspirations.

Another key factor in her decision was ESSEC’s extensive network and personalized career guidance. Conversations with alumni and current students through ESSEC’s ambassador program reassured her that the program’s values matched her own ambitions. The opportunity to learn from a diverse cohort and engage in a dynamic international environment further solidified her choice.

The SMIB Experience in Singapore: A Rich Learning Environment

Reflecting on her experience so far, Mara highlights the variety of courses as one of the program’s strengths.

“While strategy and management are the core focus, we also dive into finance, data analysis, and negotiation, ensuring a well-rounded education.”

The opportunity to work on diverse projects and collaborate with industry experts excites her the most. “In a world driven by technological innovation, strategy plays a crucial role in every industry,” she notes. Over time, she envisions transitioning into corporate strategy, using her consulting expertise to drive long-term business transformation.

Now in Singapore, after living in France and Canada, Mara appreciates the diversity within her class. “We’re a group of about thirty students from different nationalities and backgrounds, which makes learning even more enriching.” This experiences has helped her cultivate a global mindset and cultural adaptability.

Gaining Hands-On Experience

Through ESSEC’s SMIB program, Mara has gained valuable real-world experience that has sharpened her strategic and analytical skills. A particularly impactful role was as a consultant and project manager in a financial consulting firm, where she successfully managed projects and provided strategic recommendations to clients.

“This experience helped me refine my ability to work under pressure and create structured solutions.”

More recently, Mara worked in strategy consulting for the sports industry, contributing to high-profile projects such as the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. “It was an incredibly enriching experience,” she shares. “I was able to merge my passion for strategy with my love for sports, gaining invaluable insights into the intersection of strategy, operations, and event management.” These experiences have reinforced her interest in consulting and solidified her career aspirations.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

Mara’s leadership extends beyond academics. She is actively involved in two ESSEC student organizations. As Vice President of Stratngo Consulting, a pro bono consulting association, she and her team provide strategic support to non-profit organizations. Their current project focuses on helping a Cambodian NGO improve access to higher education for young girls.

Additionally, Mara founded the ESSEC APAC Boxing Club, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for boxing. Alongside two fellow SMIB students, she organizes weekly training sessions, welcoming students of all skill levels.

“It’s a great way to build community, stay active, and promote a sport that has been an important part of my personal and professional development.”

Advice for Future SMIB Candidates

For prospective students considering the SMIB program, Mara emphasizes the importance of embracing its global dimension.

“This program is designed for students who want to work in an international environment. The diverse cohort and opportunities to study abroad make it a transformative experience.”

She also advises future candidates to leverage ESSEC’s strong corporate connections.

“Take advantage of networking events, career fairs, and mentorship opportunities. Engaging with alumni and professionals will open doors to invaluable career opportunities.”

Finally, she encourages students to be strategic in their course selection. “The program is flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your career goals. Take the time to explore different tracks and specializations to maximize its impact on your professional journey.”