French VS German for IB/MBB
Hi all, I recently got into an EU target MSc program. I do have the choice to choose a language to study there "on the side". I'm torn between French and German.
French:
Pro: I used to be semi-fluent in it so it would be easier to get back to a B1-B2 level.
Con: I'm more interested in the Zurich area than the Geneve one. Also the french are notoriously snobby around anyone who speaks even good french but with an accent.
German:
Pro: Casts a wider net in Europe throughout all of DACH, inluding Zurich
Con: Much harder language to learn let alone reach a B2, germans are however more open minded and speak better english anyway.
Would appreciate any insight as I'm kina new to it. Thanks.
.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, choosing between French and German for career advancement in investment banking or consulting (MBB) in Europe depends significantly on your career location preferences and the effort you're willing to invest in language proficiency.
French: - Advantages: If you were semi-fluent before, relearning and achieving a professional level would be more straightforward. This could be beneficial if you aim to work in French-speaking regions or firms with strong ties to French markets. - Disadvantages: Your interest in Zurich over Geneva suggests that French might not be as critical for your targeted career path. Additionally, the cultural aspect you mentioned about the French being particular about language nuances could be a minor barrier.
German: - Advantages: German opens more doors across the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), including Zurich, which aligns with your interest. The language's utility extends beyond Zurich, potentially offering broader career opportunities across these economically significant areas. - Disadvantages: German is indeed more challenging to learn to a proficient level compared to French, especially if starting from scratch. However, the payoff could be significant given the economic influence of the DACH region.
Recommendation: Given your interest in Zurich and the broader applicability of German in the DACH region, investing in learning German could align better with your career goals, despite the initial challenges in mastering the language. The effort could provide a significant competitive edge in both local and regional markets within Europe.
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