"I graduated from Shiraz University in Shiraz, Iran with a BSc in Computer Engineering in 2002. I guess I don't have the usual profile for a student as although I'm young, I had already set up a small IT business in nsoftware and network engineering with an associate in 2000.

My engineering background was sufficient for running the business during the first years as it was a small business and I spent almost all of my time doing technical work. As time passed by and our business gradually grew, we became a larger organisation with more complex financial issues and larger clients, etc. I came to realize that I was devoting all of my time to managerial work. At the same time we were planning expansion of our business abroad. As we faced more complex long term planning and management issues, I came to the conclusion that I really needed a formal education in strategic management in a leading school that would equip me with skills to help me confront the challenges of expanding my business.

I began to search for universities that offer specialised courses in Strategic Management and I came across EDHEC's web site. In addition to the school's top rankings in France and Europe, the international environment of the school was particularly interesting for me. After sending my application and being accepted I started the programme in September 2007.

I have to say for me, the school has fulfilled its promises and I am especially pleased by the emphasis put on practical use of the training we receive. Many of our assignments are carried out in the form of team work. As part of the programme, in we do a consultation project for a real company which helps us put our theoretical learning into practical use. Our professors come from different countries including France, UK, Canada, etc and all are of top level. Students as well come from many different parts of the world.

I feel I will gain much from the truly international environment of the programme which has offered me the chance to meet very talented and interesting individuals from all around the globe. I'm also glad to have the opportunity to improve my French language skills. Being located in the beautiful city of Nice, this experience also offers a memorable and enjoyable stay in France.