Go France! Ask for help

We are delighted to bring you “Go France”, the guide for international students looking to work in France!

Devised and compiled by Audencia’s Career Centre and Alumni team, with the support of the School's student reporters, “Go France” is a valuable resource for internationals considering a career in France after their studies. Starting with HR professionals’ top tips and debunking the myths and realities of the workplace, Go France also showcases the experiences of more than 20 international alumni who have aced the challenge of finding a job in France.

This week, discover what Hephzibah Brianna Kizia, MECE 18, has to say.

About Hephzibah Brianna

• Graduated from the MECE 18 programme
• Originally from Kenya
• Working as Founder OF Switch-A-Roo in Nantes
• Daily working language ▶ English, French
• Native language (s) ▶ Swahili, English
• Level of French ▶ Beginner
• Other degrees ▶ Fashion design

Hephzibah Brianna's key advice

Ask for help! Audencia is definitely a good place to start.

How it all started

I noticed that whenever I held market places, people would come for the jam sessions and to connect, but lacked the money to buy the products we were selling. This is when the idea of moneyless trade and engagement systems started buzzing in my head. For the past three years, this is what I have been working on.

Pastimes

I am passionate about engaging in conversations. I love to share moments with people.

Myths & realities

Realities: The French take holidays and breaks very seriously. The balance between work and leisure is something very important in the French community and is not as well balanced as in many other parts of the world. This applies to both developed and developing countries. Be careful on how you pursue professional engagements especially on the weekends, on holidays like summer, after work hours … In Kenya it’s very easy to keep working on into the night.

Myths: You can make a lot of money very fast because jobs in France pay really well. I think it pays well but must be compared to the expenses that one would have.

My biggest challenge

The language barrier! There are a lot more places I would have had access to if only I spoke French, or if they could speak English.

Next career steps

Since Switch-A-Roo is an engagement and exchange programme between creatives in France and those in Kenya, I definitely see myself dividing my time between France and Kenya.

Advice and top tips

Don’t be afraid to ask. Living in France as an international student involves filling many documents to legalise your stay here. There are also many things that you can apply to that can make your life easier or cheaper, but this can get a bit overwhelming so don’t be afraid to ask for help.