The MSc in Sustainability Entrepreneurship and Innovation takes place mostly on the Berlin Campus, but for our second term, we get the chance to spend a few months in Paris. As this academic period ends, I’ve been reflecting and feel grateful for both the structured learning and the spontaneous adventures. This term was a blend of rigorous academics and useful practical experiences, all set against the enchanting backdrop of Paris.
Adventures in the city that doesn’t stop
Before moving to Paris, a friend joked that the city never stops because it lacks stop signs—a playful nod to its dynamic pace. Paris truly exemplifies forward-thinking modernity, notably through its pivotal role in the 2015 Paris Agreement. The city’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals is palpable, providing a real-world backdrop to our sustainability studies.
Living with classmates Sil and Matteo added a personal touch to my Parisian experience. Together, we explored the city’s iconic landscapes by day, discovering hidden gems from quaint cafés to vibrant sports areas. By night, Paris transformed; we experienced its nightlife from rooftop bars with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower to frenzied clubs. The highlight for me was experiencing the legendary ‘Prix d’Amérique’ horse race at a local hippodrome—a truly unforgettable event.
This semester wasn’t just about exploring; it was about bonding. The countless walks, meals, and nights out helped forge deep connections with my classmates, transforming us into a close-knit team. These experiences didn’t just enrich our time together; they enhanced our collaborative skills, half by design and half through the spontaneous magic of Paris itself.
Academic Insights and Professional Exposure
In our “Sustainability Marketing” class by Valérie Thobois , we learned about innovative practices from founders of companies like PARDI and ECLOS, exploring essential marketing strategies along with advanced sustainable communication techniques.
The “Sustainability Accounting” course by Prof Frank Figge introduced my classmates and me to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), with insights from industry experts like Julius Trunk and KPMG professionals.
Our “Entrepreneurial Finance” course by Amiel Kornel allowed us a great view into the dynamics of startups and venture capital. Guest lecturer Kresse Wessling from Elvis & Kresse shared some interesting insights on sustainable business models that resonate in today’s market. This course wasn’t just about theory; we actively applied our knowledge by engaging in a spontaneous “hack-a-meal” challenge with our groups, creating impressive dinners from scratch. Moreover, we worked on due diligence tasks for French start- and scaleups, yielding amazing insights. Like a detective, I engaged in a deepdive about the company and even visited their headquarters.
The “Entrepreneurial Methods” course, taught by Prof. Robert Sheldon required us to apply strategic thinking to real-world cases, particularly analyzing our very own professor’s entrepreneurial venture! Meanwhile, the Sustainable Lifestyles Venture module’s highlight was the presentation of our course project at the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). Pitching for sustainability professionals gave me a sense of purpose and that my work actually has an impact.
Language Learning and Cultural Immersion
French lessons with a Parisian teacher greatly improved my linguistic skills, allowing me to engage more deeply with locals. I was able to chit-chat with many people in their native tongue, an unique experience that broadened my horizons and understanding of the French culture.
Spring in Paris brought opportunities to delve into the agricultural sector at the Salon d’Agriculture and to appreciate sustainability in cinema at the premiere of ‘Les Responsables’. Visiting the ‘Go Entrepreneurs’ Fair at La Défense was particularly stimulating, surrounded by skyscrapers and buzzing with innovative energy. Here, my French skills were particularly helpful as most of the exhibitors and attendants were French and I was able to meet them where they are.
Professional Development and Networking
This semester, I also joined the Blue Factory, ESCP’s incubator, as part of the ‘START’ project, where I learned about minimum viable prototypes, user interviews, and validation testing.
Competing in the GEA competition and the Innovation Prize were highlights, leaving me inspired and excited to join the start+ programme next semester in Berlin.
Becoming a Climate Fresk facilitator through the oikos student association has opened new avenues for personal and professional growth, and facilitation is a skill I anticipate honing in the future.
Conclusion
Every day in Paris was amazing and eye-opening. Everything from the intensive classes to lively discussions over coffee deepened my understanding and passion for sustainability entrepreneurship. As I prepare for my next semester in Berlin, I carry with me not just the knowledge gained but a ton of memories and inspiration to continue this exciting journey in Berlin and beyond.
Jannis Duckek is currently a first-year Master student studying Sustainability Entrepreneurship and Innovation at ESCP Business School. He is from Koblenz, Germany, and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Ceramic Industrial Engineering from Hochschule Koblenz. Jannis has previously worked in business development, R&D, and consulting for both SMEs and multinational companies. He is currently working on an impact project in the FMCG industry and hopes to dedicate his future career in combating climate change.