While completing his master’s degree in materials engineering from NIT Rourkela in India, Pratyush Ranjan had the chance to intern at various companies and do part-time R&D work at a national laboratory.

These experiences convinced him that while he enjoyed the analytical aspects of engineering, it was not a sector he saw himself in the long run—marketing is.

Although many of his seniors had chosen the path of working a few years and then doing a Masters in Business Administration (MBA), Pratyush prioritized being able to pivot to a new industry as soon as possible.

With this career goal in mind, he found his way to the MSc in Marketing Management and Digital (MMD) program at ESSEC Asia-Pacific.

Could you tell us about your current career goals? How did the MMD program align with your ambitions?

I plan to start my career in brand management in Asia at an FMCG conglomerate. I’m also open to joining a smaller adtech company where I can take on more responsibilities.

I liked that the MMD program has courses focusing on the Asian context. The program duration was short and was very hands-on, focusing on group projects and emphasizing collaboration.

I also noted that completing an internship is a mandatory program part. This will help students like me, who do not come from a marketing background, gain meaningful and relevant work experience.

Also, in my previous school, although there were a few international students from Asia, most of the cohort was from India. Because of this, I wanted to gain some international experience—somewhere that ideally wouldn’t be too far from home and allow me to interact with people from Europe and the Americas.

Studying at a top European school with a campus in Singapore was, therefore, perfect!

How would you describe your international experience so far?

Coming to ESSEC Asia-Pacific has helped me understand Asian companies from an international perspective. I’ve also enjoyed discussing with classmates from different nationalities and backgrounds, as they bring different perspectives.

I believe these group projects help improve my cultural capital.

I love going out with my Chinese friends to try things like hot pot and other traditional snacks. I’ve also enjoyed taking them out, hosting gatherings at my place, and introducing them to Indian culture. Everyone is very open-minded and friendly!

What features of the MMD program make it career-oriented?

Professors from the industry often bring up their current research and modify the curriculum to help us understand the latest industry requirements.

There is less focus on pen-and-paper examinations and more on applying skills and understanding concepts—this is seen by how we are graded on a mix of presentations, group projects, and class discussions in addition to a written exam.

I’m particularly excited about the MMD study trip, which will allow me to interact with executives from different companies and gain new perspectives about work in their industries.

What would you say is your favorite part of being at ESSEC Asia-Pacific?

At ESSEC, the team comes before the individual. The ESSEC Asia-Pacific community is close-knit. The alumni are very approachable and helpful, and it is common for students and professors to meet and chat in the hallways.

For example, you wouldn’t expect to see the Deputy Dean in the canteen and be able to speak to her daily, but that is how open and accessible it is at the Singapore campus.

And if there are student activities or events you are keen on, you can just meet with the Campus Experience Manager with your plan and get the ball rolling!

Do you have any advice for future MMD students?

Knowing if ESSEC is the right fit for your values and personality is important. If you resonate with ESSEC’s belief in openness and innovation, don’t think twice—just apply!

You can speak to current students and alumni to gain an understanding of the road you are about to embark on.

I’d recommend choosing ESSEC for its rankings, the values it represents, and the environment it fosters.