Henrique, Double Degree Programme 2018-2020

Why did you choose a double degree programme at Centrale Nantes?

I knew of Centrale Nantes because of a partnership between my home University and the École Centrales group. I chose Centrale Nantes because of its excellent reputation when it came to welcoming international students and also due to its great location. I wanted a place where I could feel home and accepted, and ECN did a great job on providing that for its students.

What were your impressions of the campus and the city of Nantes?

Centrale Nantes is perfectly placed at a suitable distance from Nantes’ downtown, which allows the students to have a calm life on campus and at the same time enjoy the great meeting points and attractions in the city. This provides an extraordinary work-life balance! The city is not small and has affordable prices when it comes to rents, especially when compared to bigger cities like Paris. My studies were supported by a Brazilian government scholarship. It was around €800, and it was more than enough to meet all my needs.

And what about your classes?

Almost all the lectures were taught in French. At the beginning it was a challenge, but after a month or two, we get used to it, and it is a great experience to learn a new language and get in touch with a new culture! Actually, it was one of the things I loved the most during my exchange program.

What are your plans going forward?

Undoubtedly, the decision to undertake my double degree program at Centrale Nantes was one of the best choices I ever made. It opened a lot of doors for me: I made international friends and I did an international internship in a big company, which turned my profile into a more competitive one for international opportunities and companies. After finishing my degree in Brazil, I am considering pursuing my studies in France, with a Phd in a partnership with a big company on Signal Processing.