Exchange Student profile: Selima Gharib

Posted on by Selima Gharib

Profile photograph of Selima
Selima Gharib

Selima Gharib is an Exchange Student who studied abroad at Lancaster University Management School in the Michaelmas term of academic year 2025/26.

About Selima

Country Of Origin

Tunisia

Home University

IÉSEG School of Management, France

Degree

Master in Management PGE

Why did you choose to study at Lancaster University Management School?

Coming from IÉSEG, I already value an international environment, but LUMS takes it to another level. With students from over 150 countries, I chose Lancaster because I wanted to challenge myself in a truly global classroom. It’s not just about learning from books; it’s about learning how to negotiate and work with people from every corner of the world.

What was the best thing about your exchange experience?

For me, it was the Collegiate spirit. It’s something we don't really have in France. Being part of a College means you have an instant family. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee on the 'Spine' [a pedestrian route through the heart of the Lancaster campus], studying late in the library with your flatmates, or the social events at the bars, you never feel alone. The friendships I made in my flat are definitely the highlight of my year.

What or who inspired you most at Lancaster University Management School and why?

The collaborative culture at Lancaster inspired me. In France, we are often very competitive, but at LUMS, I felt a real sense of growing together.

What are your best memories of your time at Lancaster?

The best social memory is definitely the everyday life in our flat at the Graduate College. From cooking international dinners together to those late-night talks in the kitchen, those people became my family.

What are the best things about living in the Lancaster area?

Coming from a big city like Paris, you’ll notice how safe and peaceful the Lancaster area feels.

Which parts of your Lancaster experience have prepared you well for your future career?

At IÉSEG, we are great at group work and fast-paced schedules. At Lancaster, the focus is on critical thinking and deep research. I learned how to analyse complex problems independently and defend my ideas in seminars. This 'British style' of education made me more analytical and self-reliant.

What is your advice for prospective Exchange Students?

I’d like to share that even if you feel nervous about your English or being away from your home country, just go for it. The support system at Lancaster, between the Graduate College staff and the LUMS international office, is incredible.

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