Maryam's Experience: ESSCA Luxembourg

Would you recommend this summer programme?

I would definitely recommend this summer program. It helped me expand my knowledge of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and sustainable finance, while also giving me valuable exposure to major companies and financial institutions. It was also a great international experience, as I had the opportunity to meet people from different countries and learn about different cultures. Everyone was very welcoming and friendly, including the lecturers, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

 

What activities were organised by your programme? Did one in particular stand out as your favourite?

The program organized a variety of activities, including company visits, cultural trips, networking events and masterclasses. My favorite was the masterclass at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, which focused on sustainable finance and the Luxembourg Green Exchange. I found it very insightful, and it was especially interesting to see how such a small country like Luxembourg can have such a significant influence in sustainable and green finance.

 

Did you have the opportunity to travel elsewhere on your summer programme?

I had the opportunity to travel to Trier, Germany, with my classmates. It was a great way for us to spend time together and bond outside the programme. Trier is one of the closest German cities to Luxembourg, and I really enjoyed its calm atmosphere, historic sights, and small local shops. The programme schedule was flexible, which gave me enough time to plan short weekend trips alongside my studies.

 

What is your favourite memory of your summer programme?

My favourite memory was definitely Luxembourg’s National Day. The streets were filled with food stalls, music and a great atmosphere, which made the whole city feel very lively. Later that evening, my classmates and I watched the fireworks from our hotel. It was a really memorable experience and one of the highlights of the entire programme.

 

How has this summer programme impacted your life?

The summer programme had a positive impact on me both personally and professionally. Being in a new environment where I did not know anyone pushed me to become more confident in speaking to new people and making friends, and helped me become more comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone. Academically, I also gained a lot from the lecturers, as many of them had real industry experience and worked within major financial institutions and companies. This made the classes much more insightful because they were able to connect the topics we were learning to real life examples and experiences. The programme also gave me valuable knowledge and experience that I can include on my CV, which I believe will be useful for future university and career opportunities.