Chester Mbekela - 2016/2017

My name is Khangelani Zila Mbekela but my mates call me Chester,  I am originally from Mthatha but I grew up in Pretoria Gauteng.

I studied a Bcom degree in Marketing at UNISA and the post graduate studies in France was a Masters1 in International Management at the Toulouse school of management.

I was drawn to France to pursue my studies because France is a first world country - I therefore knew that the university would have good facilities and resources. The study programmes in France are also highly affordable due to the financial investment made by the French government. I also appreciated the French education system because they integrate the theoretical part of the studies with the practical part by making internships mandatory for us as students during holidays. This helps students apply the knowledge and gives them work experience. I also enjoyed learning about other nationalities since the course I followed was an international course.

I was also drawn to the social factors of France such as the French culture, food, language and rich history, along with beautiful architecture and of course their sport! I was fortunate enough to experience playing semi-professional rugby for the Town team Toulouse Olympics Rugby.

The two main differences between my life in SA and France were the efficient public transport I used in France (instead of driving my own car) and also fast and easily accessible internet.

I would advise future South African students to do thorough research on their desired program to make sure that what they plan to study is aligned with their career goals. I also think it would be beneficial to learn a little bit of French before going France for about 6-12 months as preparation. 

This opportunity has allowed me to go into business Strategy consulting for start-up companies. I am also considering working in academia in pursuit of my PhD and therefore found the opportunity to study in France beneficial for my career.