The Université libre de Bruxelles, Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management (Belgium)
Xinmeng Ma
Exchange Programs
September 2024 - January 2025
Tell us the reason why you decided to join the program.
Touring museums in Europe
You only have one life, and studying abroad in Europe was an opportunity I had to seize. Since childhood, I have had deep interest in literature and history. Consequently, my appreciation for European art, philosophy, as well as its rich cultural heritage made me eager to immerse myself in that environment. Moreover, I aim to become a multilingual professional and hence to contribute to cross-border business. This exchange at ULB was a great opportunity to broaden my perspective beyond Asia and to further develop diverse and innovative business thinking as an MBA student.
Sample of courses you took
Strategy and Strategic Analysis
Banking and Asset Management
Banking and Asset Management
Tell us about the classes and research during your study abroad.
Having over 100 students in a single class is common, so self-motivation is key for those who want to learn more. Professors make their own decisions about lectures, making the timetable and number of sessions flexible. Final assessments vary and may include oral exams, written exams, group assignments, or presentations.
Tell us about the school’s environment (Facilities, faculty and staff members, students, etc.).
ULB has 3 campuses in Brussels, and the main one is located not too far away from the city-center, which is also next to a beautiful forest and lake. French is the primary teaching language, besides some Dutch and English-taught courses. Exchange students come from over 60 countries, creating a diverse environment where Asian, Spanish, Arabic, and many other cultures are respected and coexist harmoniously.
Did you participate in any activities besides lectures and research?
I participated in an Frech learning program to improve oral speaking skill of French.
Reflect your study abroad and tell us about your thoughts.
Early morning view from my balcony
My five-month exchange in Belgium was filled with so many beautiful memories. First of all, I built genuine friendships with amazing people there. We often cooked together, hosted parties, and enjoyed Belgium’s world-famous beers, chocolate, fries, and waffles. We also shared both happy and difficult moments, which helped us form a strong and lasting bond. Besides that, driven by my interest in literature, history, and arts, I traveled to around 30 European cities and towns, exploring many incredible museums along the way.
However, life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. The high living cost, gloomy and damp weather, safety concerns, and staying up late for workshop studies under 8-hour time difference with Japan were all challenges I had to overcome. Despite these difficulties, these 5 months in Belgium were one of the most relaxing and mentally peaceful times of my life. They gave me unforgettable experiences and friendship—a true gift that I will cherish forever.
However, life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. The high living cost, gloomy and damp weather, safety concerns, and staying up late for workshop studies under 8-hour time difference with Japan were all challenges I had to overcome. Despite these difficulties, these 5 months in Belgium were one of the most relaxing and mentally peaceful times of my life. They gave me unforgettable experiences and friendship—a true gift that I will cherish forever.
What kind of impact or changes has your experience of studying abroad given you? (Finding a job, future vision, point of view, etc.)
Brussels, the heart of the European Union (EU), is an international city that offers a great opportunity to deepen my understanding of Europe's economic environment and cultures. With students from over 60 countries on campus, I could engage with diverse perspectives both in class and daily life. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a completely new lifestyle, developing a global mindset and gaining valuable experience for international career.
Please give some advice and message to the prospective students who are thinking of studying abroad.
With cohort of exchange students at campus
There are always different perspectives on the same thing, and studying abroad opens up a new window to appreciate the world in different ways. From my own experience, after completing my bachelor's degree and working for several years in China, studying at GSM in Japan was an incredible experience. Then, going to Europe for an exchange further broadened my cultural and professional horizons beyond Asia. Both studying abroad experiences have helped me grow and gain new insights, so I truly believe that an exchange program will benefit you greatly as well.