ESSEC MiM vs ESCP MiM — Italian guy (non-French speaker)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

1. ESSEC vs. ESCP Reputation:

   • ESSEC is generally considered slightly more prestigious than ESCP in France, but its strength is heavily tied to the French market. If you're not planning to stay in France and don't speak French, the ESSEC brand might not carry as much weight internationally.
   • ESCP, on the other hand, has a strong international appeal due to its multi-campus structure (Paris, Berlin, London, Madrid). This setup can be particularly advantageous for someone like you, who doesn't speak French and values international exposure.

2. Language Barrier:

   • ESSEC's campus is located outside Paris, and the program's prestige is deeply rooted in the French ecosystem. Without French proficiency, you might find it challenging to fully leverage the ESSEC network.
   • ESCP's multi-campus model allows you to study in different cities, which could help you build a more diverse network and avoid the language barrier in France.

3. Career Goals in Commodities/Trading/Financial Markets:

   • For financial markets, MiF programs are indeed stronger, but since you've already applied and are considering MiM, ESCP's international exposure might give you better access to global opportunities.
   • ESCP's multi-campus structure could also provide you with access to different financial hubs like London, which is crucial for trading and derivatives roles.

4. Practical Considerations:

   • ESCP's international setup is often praised for its flexibility and exposure to multiple markets. However, the actual value depends on how well you utilize the opportunities (e.g., internships, networking events, and alumni connections in each city).
   • ESSEC's prestige might be more beneficial if you were targeting roles in France or French-speaking regions, but for someone aiming for international markets, ESCP's structure might align better with your goals.

Recommendation:

Given your background (Italian, non-French speaker) and career aspirations in commodities/trading/financial markets, ESCP MiM seems like the better fit. Its international setup aligns well with your goals, and it avoids the limitations of ESSEC's France-centric reputation. However, make sure to actively leverage the multi-campus opportunities and network aggressively in key financial hubs like London.

Sources: European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), Msc Finance ranking Europe, Comprehensive guide of studies in France