- Megha Sen I completed high school at St Teresa's Secondary School in Kolkata, focusing on the humanities stream, which ignited my interest in understanding societal complexities. I then pursued Political Science and International Relations at Jadavpur University, where the dynamic environment and engaging discussions deepened my knowledge of global and political systems. Later, I earned a Master’s degree in Development Studies, which broadened my perspective on critical issues such as inequality, poverty, and sustainable development. These experiences shaped how I see the world and inspired me to work towards finding creative solutions to some of the biggest challenges we face today. This inspired me to pursue an MBA programme at Porto Business School, Portugal. The decision to pursue an MBA in Portugal was multifaceted. I was particularly drawn to the programme at Porto Business School for its focus on innovation and global business practices. Portugal’s emerging position as a hub for startups and sustainable practices further reinforced my choice. Additionally, the opportunity to immerse myself in a culturally rich and diverse European setting was enticing. I did apply to a few other universities globally, including institutions in the Netherlands and France, but the mix of affordability, academic excellence, and the vibrant cultural experience that Portugal offered made it an easy decision. Difference between Jadavpur, TISS, and Porto Business School The teaching styles at the three institutions were as distinct as three different cuisines — each flavourful in its own way. At Jadavpur University, the focus was deeply rooted in theory and academic depth, creating a rock-solid foundation in core principles. It was the kind of place where you could argue about the nuances of a theorem longer than you would argue about who gets the last slice of pizza. TISS, on the other hand, brought academia into the real world, seamlessly blending knowledge with its practical applications. Their approach often involved diving into societal issues, culminating in an in-depth thesis on community strategies in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. Let’s just say, I went from debating theories to debating the best community approach to clean water access — talk about leveling up. Then came Porto Business School, where things took an exciting turn. Here, the learning was as dynamic as the business world itself, with a highly interactive, case-study-based approach. Picture yourself in a room filled with sharp minds from across the globe, dissecting practical business scenarios with enthusiasm. The multicultural classroom, with faculty hailing from diverse industries and countries, was a refreshing departure from the more homogeneous groups back home. And let’s not forget: when you are debating strategy with someone over lunch, it hits differently when they casually mention they used to be a vet, a musician, or a nurse — and now they are acing business case studies like it’s no big deal. Leaving corporate for academics After working for over six years in India, I reached a point where I felt the need to upskill and broaden my global perspective to move forward in my career. While my professional experience was incredibly rewarding, I realised I wanted to delve deeper into areas like strategic management and global business trends — fields where an MBA programme could provide invaluable insights. Returning to academics seemed like the right decision to pivot towards leadership roles in a more international context. Porto Business School (PBS) offered an exciting opportunity to not only gain academic knowledge but also immerse myself in practical, real-world experiences. Although I couldn't attend the exchange programme at Berkeley, I was fortunate to participate in the one in Berlin, where I took part in an exhilarating business simulation game and visited major companies like Bayer and N26 in Germany. We also had the chance to visit Natixis and Super Bock in Porto, gaining first-hand insights into the operations of prominent companies. Additionally, PBS gave us the opportunity to tackle sustainability business challenges, where we were guided and evaluated by real business leaders. These experiences, combined with the rigorous academic environment, have been instrumental in shaping my global perspective and preparing me for the next phase of my career. We also had the chance to work on a thesis with an established company called Cerelis, a century-plus-old company, on their brand positioning and product expansion. The school facilitated exciting projects like this with many other companies, providing us with the opportunity to apply our learnings in a real-world business context. Settling down in Portugal My first day in Portugal was a whirlwind of excitement and mild culture shock — like stepping into a whole new world where everything felt both familiar and completely different. The locals’ warmth and welcoming nature made me feel at ease almost immediately, but the language barrier and the slower pace of life compared to India took some adjusting. The first week was a mix of excitement and challenges, like navigating grocery stores with unfamiliar labels and figuring out how to set up my accommodation. However, despite the initial confusion, these little challenges became rewarding milestones. One of my most memorable moments was at the supermarket when a kind stranger noticed my struggle and patiently walked me through the different options — something that definitely helped me feel more at home. University life was equally vibrant, with classmates from all over the world and professors who were approachable and passionate about creating engaging, thought-provoking discussions. It was inspiring to be in such a diverse, intellectually stimulating environment. Over time, I have grown to truly appreciate Portuguese culture, especially their love for coffee, community, and the relaxed pace of life. Whether it’s sharing meals with locals or strolling through the stunning streets of Porto, I have felt welcomed every step of the way. Through all of this, I am incredibly grateful that I stayed connected with India, continuing to work as a consultant at Teach for India, my former organisation. It allowed me to stay grounded and maintain a sense of connection with my roots while embracing this exciting new chapter abroad. Studying abroad has been a transformative experience that profoundly changed my outlook on life. It enhanced my resilience, independence, and appreciation for cultural diversity, teaching me the value of adaptability and the importance of embracing differences. Living in a multicultural environment reshaped my understanding of global issues, making me more open-minded and empathetic. Interestingly, people around me responded to these changes in subtle but meaningful ways. Friends and family back home admired my newfound confidence and balanced, innovative approach to challenges, while peers abroad, especially my class colleagues from different parts of the world and those from Portugal, appreciated my unique perspectives and willingness to learn. I was especially honoured to receive the José Valente Award, a recognition that combined both my academic achievements and the votes of my classmates — an acknowledgment of the connections and respect I had earned from my peers. I am deeply grateful for this incredible journey and the relationships that have enriched it. From a student to employee in Portugal Continuing to work in Portugal was a strategic decision. The country’s growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and sustainability aligned with my career aspirations. Additionally, I had built a strong network during my studies, which opened doors to exciting opportunities. The visa process can be quite intricate, requiring careful attention to detail and timely action. For instance, in Portugal, transitioning from a student visa to a residence permit involves securing an appointment with SEF (AIMA), which must be done within six months of arriving on a student visa. This process is often time-consuming and can feel tedious. In my case, I was fortunate to have the support of my friend Isabel, who connected me with a skilled lawyer. Their guidance streamlined the process, allowing me to secure a residence permit. For others, the university's career services and administrative support proved invaluable in navigating this complex procedure. As I now prepare to transition into a full-time role, I will need to update my visa status accordingly. This experience taught me the importance of patience, meticulous planning, and the value of a strong support network. (This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)
