[Alumni of the Month / January 2023] Mahi Khanna

Q: What led you to choose France as your study destination? And why Sciences Po?

A: I was a student of History and International Relations at Ashoka University in New Delhi, of which SciencesPo is a partner. I knew I wanted to study International Relations but was not too sure of my specialization. A solo trip to Italy in 2018 with a short stay in France led me to find my ideal school- Sciences Po. Interestingly, it was my only application and I was so sure I wanted to study Intelligence as my specialization! The easy Campus France procedures coupled with the benefits given to international students such as CAF, Assurance Maladie and post study visa made me sure of my choice.

Q: What has your work experience been like so far?

A: Since the majority of my course happened during Covid-19, it was only towards the end that we had the opportunity to build in person networks. But, carrying the name of SciencesPo on my resume helped me tremendously in finding internships. Not to forget that I had prior experience of working with Risk Advisory Group, Black Peak and even the Observer Research Foundation - all big names in my field. I think having such diverse experiences made me confident of my trajectory and right now I have even made a shift to consulting and strategy as a field.

Q: What will be your advice to a student who wants to come to France for their higher studies?

A: Don’t expect an Emily in Paris life! This country, and particularly Paris, has a lot to offer. Being able to bring all of what you have learnt and the willingness to learn more will make the experience a lot more enjoyable and pleasant. Learn the language and the country will embrace you with open arms!

Q: Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

A: I definitely see myself living in Paris and expanding my horizons, both professionally and personally. In fact, the two year APS served as a huge motivation for me to explore new opportunities and now I wish to shift towards the fashion and arts industry! I have recently started working as a Junior Strategic Consultant and I wish to see how the amalgamation of business with human sciences comes together. Being able to apply my learnings of Security and Intelligence in a creative industry seems rather promising.

Q: What do you expect from the France Alumni network?

A: I wish for more opportunities to meet and network with other Alumni from different fields and I am interested in the possibility of working with the French Embassy in India on collaborative projects. Perhaps, it will be helpful to start with post study assistance of students to better understand the challenges and the ever-changing market needs.

You can connect with Mahi here.

Do you have a story to tell? Do you wish to share your venture with the France Alumni network in India?

Write to us at [email protected] with the subject 'Alumni of the Month'.