Finding a Path in Difficult Times
When the war in Ukraine began, ESCP mobilised quickly to support displaced students through the ESCP4U initiative. One of the first beneficiaries was Tim Jmak, a young student from Kyiv, who joined the Bachelor in Management (BSc) on a full scholarship. For Tim, this was not just an academic opportunity but a turning point in his life.
Born and raised in Kyiv, Tim had the unique chance to study in both the French and Ukrainian school systems, graduating with two diplomas. “When I was younger, I was planning to become president,” he recalls with a smile. “My dream has not changed, but before I would like to work, get experience and launch my own business project.”
That sense of ambition has guided him ever since. The scholarship opened the door, but it was Tim’s determination and positivity that made him thrive in the ESCP environment.
Building a Truly International Experience
What attracted Tim most to ESCP was its international dimension: studying across three campuses, learning from professors with diverse backgrounds, and gaining exposure to multiple disciplines. “This wide approach gave me valuable competencies and perspectives that will be useful in the future, especially for my long-term goal of starting my own business,” he explains.
Moving abroad, however, came with challenges. Leaving Kyiv behind was not easy, and adapting to Western Europe required resilience. “The transition abroad was not seamless, but I see it as a necessary step for personal growth. It taught me to be flexible, to adapt quickly, and to open myself to completely new experiences.”
Being far from family was perhaps the most challenging part, but it also encouraged him to build friendships and immerse himself in ESCP’s multicultural community. Over time, those connections became one of the most rewarding aspects of his studies.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Tim’s academic interests quickly expanded during the BSc. He particularly enjoyed subjects such as accounting, economics, international relations, negotiations and security analysis. “Each of these subjects offered insights that expanded my perspective and helped me connect theory with real-world issues,” he says.
Outside the classroom, student life also brought unexpected discoveries. During his induction week in Turin, Tim tried padel for the first time. What started as a casual game with classmates grew into a genuine passion. It was a reminder that student life is not only about exams and lectures but also about the experiences and friendships that form along the way.
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Building Towards Tomorrow
As he graduates, Tim is preparing to continue his studies with a Master in International Management at the University of Monaco. “This programme will allow me to deepen my academic knowledge and refine my skills. It is also a step toward preparing myself more concretely for the kind of future I am imagining for myself,” he explains.
Opportunities sometimes emerge in the hardest of times, and Tim’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when determination meets support. His years at ESCP gave him an international perspective, lifelong friendships and the confidence to keep aiming higher.
His message to those who will follow in his footsteps is simple yet compelling: “Be proactive. Use every opportunity, both academic and social, to learn and grow. I personally did not take part in many clubs or societies, but I highly encourage others to do so. It helps make the experience much more enjoyable and richer.”
Tim’s story demonstrates the importance of staying focused, holding on to your dreams with both hands, and persevering forward, regardless of the circumstances.
Ultimately, life is about building on every opportunity, not being held back by obstacles.
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