‘Rooted in Assam, giving back is the goal', says student who studied supply chain management in France

Indian Express

6 hours ago

— Kuranga Nayani Chetia
My interest in studying abroad started taking shape during my undergraduate years. While pursuing mechanical engineering at Dibrugarh University Institute of Engineering and Technology (DUIET), I found myself increasingly drawn towards the business side of operations, particularly supply chain management. At first, I explored options in the UK. But as I delved deeper, the rest of Europe, and especially France, stood out. The practicality, affordability, and the idea of a Schengen visa allowing travel across countries made it all the more appealing. Eventually, Rennes School of Business caught my attention. It had the exact course I wanted and offered a diverse, welcoming environment that felt like the right fit.
I come from Dibrugarh, a peaceful town in Upper Assam. I did my Class 10 from Little Flower School and my Class 12 from Dr Radhakrishnan School of Arts, Commerce and Science. Growing up in Assam shaped my identity — from language and culture to food and festivals. I carried all of that with me when I left for France.
I didn't go through this transition alone. I took the help of a consultancy called Admissify, which made the process a lot smoother, from college applications to the visa process. The admission itself was structured. I had to submit my academic transcripts, a statement of purpose (SOP), a detailed CV, proof of English proficiency, and two letters of recommendation. A unique element was a timed video interview—they wanted to understand how motivated I was and how well I could communicate.
My biggest tip? Be honest in your SOP and take the video interview seriously. That's your window to stand out.
Although I didn't receive a scholarship, I was lucky to be sponsored by my parents. France does offer CAF — a housing subsidy for international students — and I got around 189 euros a month, which really helped with my 400-euro rent.
I didn't take up a part-time job. My monthly expenses were around 600 euros, and I managed within that. Without fluency in French, finding part-time work was also more difficult, though I was learning the language alongside my studies.
One of the things I genuinely liked about Rennes School of Business was its cosy yet modern setup. The classrooms were comfortable, tech-friendly, and designed to encourage real interaction. The overall campus vibe was international but felt homely—a space where learning felt engaging rather than intimidating.
When I compare the education system in France to what I experienced in Assam, the difference is stark. Back home, the focus was on studying hard and acing exams. But here in France, especially in a business school setting, you're pushed to collaborate, network, and think practically. Initially, this shift was a challenge—not because I'm introverted (I talk a lot!)—but because the mindset was so different. The professors treat you like equals, and that kind of mutual respect is refreshing.
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My daily routine was pretty structured. I'd start my day at 6 am with a cup of tea and prepare my lunch. Around 7.45 am, I'd head out—either two buses or a bus-metro-bus combo—and it took about 35 to 45 minutes to get to college. Classes began at 8.30 am. We had a lunch break at 11.30 am, and I either ate the food I packed or grabbed a meal at the CROUS mess for just 3.30 Euros. Classes resumed at 1.30 pm and often continued till 4.30 or even 7 pm on some days. Post-class hours were usually reserved for group project meetings or a quick grocery run to Super U or U Express. I'd get home by 7 pm, talk to my parents around 10.30 pm (India time), cook dinner around 9.30 pm, and call it a night by 11 pm.
Outside academics, I am into casual vlogging. I run a YouTube channel called KNC28, which I started during the Covid pandemic. It became a space where I document solo trips, day-to-day life abroad, and cultural experiences—like celebrating Bihu in France or discovering local corners of Rennes. I film with simple gear and edit everything myself. It's not about perfection—just about staying connected with home and sharing authentic moments.
On weekends, Saint-Anne in Rennes was our hangout spot. It had this lively, easygoing vibe with open-air seating, music, and great energy. Picking up takeout dinner from La Baraka became a bit of a ritual for my friends and me. And on campus, coffee became my go-to—not just a beverage, but a lifeline through early classes and long group project sessions.
One of my most memorable experiences was celebrating Rongali Bihu away from home. I was really missing Assam that day. So I wore my traditional Mekhela Sador, cooked jolpan and sesame chicken, and invited friends from Italy, Colombia, Lebanon, Indonesia, Morocco, and various parts of India. Everyone loved the food and the culture — and yes, they danced Bihu with me! It was a moment of pride and emotional warmth.
This journey has definitely changed me. I wouldn't say I've become a whole new person, but I've realised I can survive—and thrive—on my own. From solo trips to Paris and Mont-Saint-Michel to figuring out how to navigate daily life in a foreign country, I've grown a lot. Coming from a place where I hadn't even stepped outside my hometown until my UG, that's no small thing. I missed home—the simplicity, the warmth, the food, the language, and yes, being able to find a plate of momo on the street. But all of that only made me appreciate my roots more.
My long-term goal is to return and settle in Assam. I want to use everything I have learned—from academic knowledge to cultural experiences—to contribute meaningfully here. I am looking for a stable job that aligns with my field, but I also plan to start a side hustle, possibly something creative or entrepreneurial that matches my experiences abroad.
(This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)
Mridusmita Deka covers education and has worked with the Careers360 previously. She is an alumnus of Gauhati University and Dibrugarh University. ... Read More