"The ESSEC MBA was the best combination of location, price, cohort size, and academic rigor."

18.12.2023

Asfhin Rezaee, is now a Sales Trader in a consulting and trading company based in Paris. He graduated from the ESSEC Global MBA back in 2022 and shares his learning experience at ESSEC Executive Education.

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

Afshin Rezaee: My friends would describe me as the life of the party! a happy go lucky extrovert who loves to help people and is generous to a fault. During my MBA I was known as one of the “Energy Boys”, as of my obsession for Energy and renewable energy topics. My spirit animal is golden retriever!

After completing my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in my home country, Iran. I’ve spent almost 10 years working in trading chemicals and heavy oil derivatives. I had various roles as sales and project manager in this journey. This helped me to gain a good view of the processes and Middle East’s energy market.

“Through classes, workshops, and networking events, I also learned to hone my personal pitch which has helped me ever since.”

Why did you choose the GMBA at ESSEC?

Afshin R.: I chose the ESSEC MBA because it was the best combination of location, price, cohort size, and academic rigor.

What was your project when you entered the program?

Afshin R.: I wanted to become a Commodity Trader in Europe, working in the Energy sector.

What are the main skills that you acquired during the program?

Afshin R.: Finance and networking skills. When I spoke about my interest in commodity trading roles,I was advised to focus more on Finance. Professor Ramos was kind enough to put me in one of the extracurricular Finance classes. Through classes, workshops, and networking events, I also learned to cone my personal pitch which has helped me ever since.

What is your current job position and how did the GMBA help you reach it?

Afshin R.: I’m a sales trader in a consulting and trading company based in Paris that helps companies in their transition to sustainable and green energy. The finance classes as well as the soft skills the MBA taught me, have been valuable in obtaining and succeeding in my current role.

“ The Strategy Management class enhanced my understanding of strategic management but also showcased the dynamic and interactive nature of the program.”

What is your best memory of the program?

Afshin R.:

It’s really hard to choose one memory, as I have cherished moments since day one! One standout experience was in my favorite class, Strategy Management by Professor Pooyan Khashabi. We delved into a discussion about transition in the market, using the case of Netflix vs Blockbuster. It has become so thorough and detailed thanks to the engaging questions, which explored the case from all aspects of a market, ranging from technological disruption to leadership dynamics and even customer behavior.

It not only enhanced my understanding of strategic management but also showcased the dynamic and interactive nature of the program.

Your experience at ESSEC in one word?

Afshin R.: Unforgettable!

Your advice to future applicants?

Afshin R.:

Knowing what you want from day one.
It gives you a well-defined and compelling application. This not only helps define your requirements but also allows others to better support and refer you. Don’t be afraid to repeat what positions you’re looking for, even during your classes. Your cohort could be your referral, soon!

Networking:
Alumni and LinkedIn are your golden ladders!
Harness the power of communities; by reaching out and asking the right questions, you can tap into a wealth of experiences. Then you’ll realize, people love to talk!

Error free Resume:
Have a polished resume for your top three positions that you like. Keep it ready to be sent on your phone!
Highlight your diverse and team Experience in ESSEC on your interviews.

You’re not able chose your country of origin, but you can choose the person you’re sitting next to in classes! And the person you’ll become friend with!