Léa, a student in the Master’s in International Marketing of Innovation at TSM - Toulouse School of Management, shares her experience in Bangkok. Between innovation-focused classes, immersion in Thai culture, and multicultural encounters, she explains how this dual degree has enriched her journey and shaped her international perspective on marketing.
Read her story about her adventure abroad!
Could you introduce yourself in a few words?
My name is Léa Berthelot, and I am currently a student in Master’s programme in International Marketing of Innovation at Toulouse School of Management. After completing a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Business, I wanted to pursue a programme that combined creativity, strategic thinking, and an international perspective. This master perfectly matches these goals, offering both academic excellence and valuable international experience.
Why did you choose your current programme?
I chose this Master because it provides a unique balance between marketing, innovation, and global business practices. I wanted to go beyond traditional marketing studies and understand how innovation can drive brand growth and customer engagement. Another reason I was drawn to this programme is its international scope — with opportunities to study abroad and complete an internship in a global context, which I see as essential for developing adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.
What do you like most about this programme ?
What I like most about the International Marketing of Innovation Master is its combination of academic depth and professional experience. The programme doesn’t only focus on practical marketing skills, it also has a strong research orientation, which allows us to explore topics such as innovation, consumer behavior, and sustainability in a more analytical and reflective way.I really appreciate this balance between research and application, as it helps us develop both critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills. In addition, the international scope of the programme makes the experience even more enriching, both academically and personally.
Under what framework did you go abroad
I went abroad as part of the International Marketing of Innovation Master’s programme, a double degree between Toulouse School of Management and a partner university abroad. By choosing this Master, I knew I would graduate with two diplomas — one from TSM and one from the host university — which is a real asset for an international career.The mobility is an integral and compulsory part of the programme, allowing students to gain valuable academic and cultural experience in a foreign country. It truly reflects the international spirit and openness that define this Master.
Which destination did you choose and why ?
I chose to study at Assumption University in Bangkok, Thailand. Thailand has always been a dream destination for me — I’ve always wanted to experience its culture, energy, and way of life. When I discovered that the IMI Master offered the opportunity to study there and earn a double degree, it immediately made sense for me. By studying at Assumption University, I will graduate not only with my Master’s from TSM but also with an MBA (Master of Business Administration), which is a highly valued qualification in the marketing and innovation field where I aim to build my career. It felt like the perfect combination of personal fulfillment and professional growth.
How does TSM support you in this opportunity?
TSM provides strong support throughout the entire process. From the first information meetings to the administrative steps and academic coordination with the host university. The international relations team is very supportive, and our professors also encourage us to make the most of this experience. I really felt guided and supported at every stage.
What is your daily life like during your mobility?
My daily life in Bangkok is dynamic and fulfilling. As a very sporty person, I start every morning at the gym, which gives me the energy and focus I need for the rest of the day. After that, I usually have classes at Assumption University, where the courses are interactive and focused on real-world marketing and innovation challenges. Outside of class, I love exploring Bangkok — there are so many amazing cafés, restaurants, and hidden spots to discover (probably too many to visit them all!). The city is full of life, culture, and incredible food. I’ve also met students from all around the world, which makes every day more inspiring. Overall, I feel truly happy and fulfilled here. This experience has brought me so much both personally and academically.
How do you think this exchange will benefit your future studies?
This exchange has helped me sharp a global mindset and a better understanding of how marketing and innovation work in different cultural contexts. It has improved my adaptability, intercultural communication skills, and independence — all qualities that will be very useful for my upcoming six-month internship and future career in international marketing. Beyond the professional aspect, I learned a lot about myself. I learned to find myself. This experience came at a time in my life when doubts and questions were multiplying, which is normal since we are still young. Today, after more than six months in Asia, I can say that I have grown enormously. As part of my previous studies, I had already spent a year abroad, but everything is so different here. I learned about myself and my desires for the future. This experience allowed me to truly find myself.
What advice would you give to a student who is hesitating to go on an academic exchange?
I would say: go for it! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, discover a new culture, and learn more about yourself. Of course, it can be challenging at first, but every day abroad helps you grow. You’ll come back more confident, open-minded, and ready to take on new challenges. And who knows? Maybe you’ll never come back home!
Could you share an anecdote from your time abroad?
I have so many stories to tell, but the one that stands out most is when we had the freshmen weekend seminar. The university really gave us the opportunity to meet each other and do lots of activities to get to know one another. It had everything: an exceptional amount of food, very interesting activities, free time, the beach stretching as far as the eye could see... But a few days earlier, I had a terrible case of food poisoning (it took me two weeks to recover), which ‘ruined’ the weekend for me because I still wanted to go, but I was like a zombie. I like to say that my friends enjoyed it for me. I still have good memories of it despite everything.
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Like Léa, benefit from a double-degree qualification and international experience to broaden your horizons and enhance your opportunities on the global job market.
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