[Alumni of the Month / November 2023] Rajarshi Ganguly

Q - Could you please tell me about yourself and what you are doing right now?

A - I am Rajarshi Ganguly, a Charpak scholarship holder. I pursued my bachelor's in Artificial Intelligence and Visual from IUT, Montpellier. Recently, I completed my master's in Machine Learning Engineering, one of the divisions in AI. During my master's, I worked as an alternant at Montpellier as an application developer. I am also a part of the Erasmus International group as a volunteer. Recently, I have been selected for ATPL (pilot) training of two years at Mermoz Academy to get my CPL license.

Q - You mentioned doing your master's as alternance. Can you share your experience and how you found the alternance?

A – Firstly, the minimum requirement for someone to pursue alternance is having studied in France for at least the one year that can be the first year of their master's. The university played a crucial role in helping me find alternance. There was a job dating event hosted by the university, a common practice in France, allowing students to meet with companies. As an alternant, you receive a monthly salary, and your employer may cover some or all of your school fees as well.

Q - How was your experience in France, and how did it contribute to your professional and personal growth?

A - I had an amazing experience in France. From my first day, staying in the government residency, CROUS, not only provided affordable housing but also a social environment with international students. This allowed me to learn different cultures and the French language. The government's support during the COVID period, including free food distribution and rent waivers, was significant. The degree I obtained is recognized globally, also France is a home to many international offices and headquarters and exposure to working in these big companies in France was invaluable. The combination of university exposure and real-world work made a substantial difference in my personal and professional development.

Q - Why did you choose France specifically?

A – France is one of the countries with lowest tution fees and numerous benefits. It has a global reputation for its education courses.  The domain of Artificial intelligence, the specific field I wanted to study in, had limited options in other countries. When I approached the Campus France manager, they presented at least six universities offering the courses I desired, reinforcing France's excellence in these domains.

Q - Any suggestions for aspiring students?

A – France is an excellent place for diverse courses and one should not think twice before choosing France as their study destination. Firstly, when you arrive in France and have gotten a house on rent register for CAF, a French government aid where you can get the rent reimbursement upto 30 – 40%. Also, register yourself for the French social security which is offered by the French government to its international students (AMELI).  In addition, if you encounter any difficulties in the administrative process you can always go to the social associations asking them for assistance in every process including visa renewal. 

 Q -  How important is knowing the French language, and did you learn it before going to France?

A - When I arrived in France, I had basic French skills, but now, after years of living here, I am fluent. Learning French is beneficial for easier navigation of life, more education options, and better integration into French public universities and local communities.