Oui Love Australia: French Student’s Study Abroad Adventure

From discovering cuddly koalas and beautiful beaches to marvelling at the Sydney Opera House, French study abroad student Maéva Mba Nyare quickly fell for the magic of Australia.  

Currently interning at Football Australia while studying a Master of Event Management at the International College of Management, Sydney (ICMS), she’s embracing new adventures far from home. 

Following Her Passions: From Dance to Sport Events

Maéva first dreamed of being a professional dancer but, as she explains, “because of COVID I couldn’t apply for a dance university abroad, so I decided to follow my second passion: sport events.”  

She earned a bachelor’s in sport management from Paris-Nanterre University and gained hands-on experience with the French Federation of Fencing and TrainMe.  

“Those experiences were a true confirmation that I wanted to work in the sports industry.” 

After that, Maéva started her master’s degree at AMOS business school in France, where she also worked as a service and event officer at Schneider Electric.  

“It’s during that time that my desire to come to Australia grew and here I am for the last year of my master’s degree.  

“My dream job would be to work for the Olympics Games in the event operation or hospitality department.” 

Making the Move to Australia

Maéva grew up in France, but Australia had always been on her mind.  

“Since I was a little girl Australia has always been a dream, I love watching surf competitions, koalas and kangaroos,” she said.  

“When I knew my school had a partnership with ICMS in Australia I put it at the top of my list.” 

Studying at ICMS: Real Support, Real Learning

What’s it like to study at ICMS?  

“It’s been a blast! Honestly, I don’t regret coming. The classes are very interesting, and I really feel like I am learning something valuable,” Maéva said.  

“I like how the classes blend the academic part with professional placements. We are very well supported; anytime I have a question or concern, I always know where to get an answer.  

“It feels good to know that the college works with us and understand us students.” 

And those culture differences?  

“Everything is upside down here, from the way you turn locks to the roads. It was hard to adapt at the beginning but now I’ve got it.  

“But mostly, I feel like connecting with people here is way easier, professionally and personally.  

“In France, especially professionally, you really need to know the person for them to trust you or recommend you.” 

Location helps, too. The ICMS Northern Beaches Campus overlooks the famous Manly Beach and is a short ferry ride to the heart of Sydney.  

“ICMS is very well located. I love Manly.  

“Being next to the beach is something I would’ve never known I needed. It makes learning very pleasant.” 

Have a look at this TikTok to see what Maéva is talking about:

@icmscampus Studying in Manly @ ICMS 🩵🏰 #study #australia #manly #beach #beaches #icms #studyabroad #bachelor #summer #winter #allyearound ♬ Christmas Kids – Roar

Real-World Experience: WIL Placement at Football Australia

Maéva’s hands-on experience in Australia got a real boost through her ICMS Work Integrated Learning (WIL) professional placement. This has given her the opportunity to intern at Football Australia while completing her studies. 

“The WIL team was a huge help. I really wanted to find something sport-related since it’s the sector I’m interested in and I’m graduating in a few months. 

“They were the ones who got me to do an internship interview with Football Australia.  

“Everything went very well. During the interview I was able to really understand the job and show my motivation and what I could bring to the team.  

“I was so excited when I got the news that I’d been accepted.” 

Maéva works at Football Australia two days a week and sometimes gets to attend matches as part of her role. 

What does a typical week involve?  

“I create email campaigns for invitees, manage RSVPs for VIP and VVIP guests, update the run sheet for catering and accreditation, and help develop internal processes.” 

Would She Recommend ICMS?

There’s no hesitation: “Yes, definitely! I love it here and I will miss it dearly when I return to France.” 

Maéva’s time in Australia, her studies at ICMS, and her industry experience with Football Australia are all steps towards her goal – maybe even getting her closer to working at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.  

Her story is proof that new places, new challenges, and a little bit of courage can take you just about anywhere.