Jeslyn Jerota’s journey as a Global Bachelor of Business Administration student at ESSEC Business School exemplifies the essence of global citizenship.

From her participation in the prestigious IBEA program to securing internships at CitiBank and China Bank PH, Jeslyn’s experiences have shaped her passion for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and finance.

As she prepares for graduation, she reflects on how her time at ESSEC and international exposure have prepared her to pursue a career focused on ethical AI practices and innovation. Learn more about her insights and journey.

Why did you choose to join ESSEC?

I chose to join ESSEC’s Global Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program because of its strong international focus and commitment to academic excellence.

I am also attracted by the exchange opportunities available, which align perfectly with my career aspirations.

Moreover, I have always envisioned myself learning within a diverse community, so I applied to ESSEC and began my journey on the Singapore campus.

As you come closer to graduation, what are your current career goals?

My career goals include working strategically within the Artificial Intelligence (AI) or finance industry and focusing on ethical AI practices and innovative solutions.

To this end, I have also created a newsletter focusing on AI, which offers timely insights to my followers and helps me build my network in the industry.

I will leverage my international experience and business administration skills to drive positive changes.

What did you do at CitiBank and China Bank PH?

At CitiBank, I participated in the Investment Banking program, which provided valuable insights and training related to the industry.

My involvements included creating company profiles, developing financial projections, and conducting comparative company analyses.

I also completed a four-month internship at China Bank PH with the Strategy Business Development team earlier last year. I focused on refining the business strategy and leveraging AI tools to streamline operations.

This experience was particularly rewarding as I gained real-world industry exposure.

How did you secure these experiences and internships?

The career services team provided us with workshops, networking events, and personalized coaching sessions to help me kickstart my internship search.

These resources were crucial in equipping me with essential skills such as CV writing and interview techniques.

I strongly believe in the power of networking. My proactive approach to contacting professionals and attending career fairs was also crucial in securing these roles.

Please share about your IBEA experience. How has this experience contributed to your development?

I am enrolled in ESSEC’s International Business Education Alliance (IBEA) program, which allows me to study at four different institutions worldwide.

Besides the unparalleled international exposure, I also completed a tax project with PwC Deutschland, where I led an international team on tax planning strategies.

This experience broadened my perspective and honed my leadership skills, for which I am very grateful.

What are three tips you have for students to excel in their internships like you have?

Setting clear goals is essential for every student. It helps you define what you want to achieve during your internship and allows you to track your progress regularly.

Secondly, I strongly urge students to communicate openly with their supervisors and colleagues. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek feedback, especially if unsure about your tasks.

Additionally, embrace challenges and don’t be afraid to take on difficult tasks. Stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for growth and learning.