Sabrina and Sunny

• Can you introduce yourselves and tell us about your academic background in India and your research at Sorbonne University?

Sabrina: I have been pursuing my PhD in computer science engineering in India for the past four years. My research focuses on algorithms, machine learning, mathematical theorems, and risk estimation in finance. I use mathematics to evaluate probabilities and risks for investors. At Sorbonne University, I joined the LIP6 laboratory, where I had the opportunity to apply my tools and methods to entirely different topics, particularly optimization problems outside the financial field. Working with researchers from various countries such as Japan, Algeria, Russia, and the Netherlands has been a very enriching experience for me.

Sunny: I am currently doing a PhD in biophysics in India. My research focuses on aggregation and phase sepration of protein responsible for neurodegenerative diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). During my mobility at Sorbonne University, I worked on cellular studies and collaborated with researchers from different scientific backgrounds. It was also my first time abroad and my first time in Paris, which made the experience even more special.

• Why did you decide to apply for an Erasmus+ mobility program?

Sabrina: For me, it was the right moment in my academic journey. I am reaching the end of my thesis, so I finally felt able to leave India for a few months. I even extended my PhD by six months to make this mobility possible. I had other opportunities before, but the timing was never right. Above all, I wanted to discover a new academic environment and experience life outside India for the first time.

Sunny: I wanted to go abroad, discover different ways of working, exchange ideas, and meet new people. I was also curious to explore Paris and experience another culture. For me, it was an opportunity to build knowledge, collaborations, and international connections.

• What were your expectations before arriving in France?

Sabrina: Honestly, I did not have many expectations. I already felt extremely grateful just to have the opportunity to come to France. It was my first time leaving India, so I simply wanted to learn and discover as much as possible.

Sunny: I also arrived without many expectations. I mainly wanted to learn, explore the city, and meet people from different backgrounds. I was very excited to experience a new environment.

• What differences have you noticed between studying and working in France compared to India?

Sabrina: The biggest difference is definitely the work-life balance. In India, people can work until midnight very easily. The environment pushes you into this rhythm. In France, I discovered a completely different approach: people really value their personal time, their families, and their social lives. I discovered what a “9-to-5“ schedule means. 

Sunny: I noticed differences in both work mentality and lifestyle. Here, people seem to prioritize wellbeing: eating properly, maintaining a healthy balance, and respecting privacy. Academically, I also noticed more flexibility in the French system. Students can move more easily between courses and experiences during their Master’s studies, while PhDs are generally shorter here than in India.

• In what ways do you think your mobility experience can benefit your home university? And Sorbonne University?

Sabrina: This experience will have a strong impact on the way I work and supervise students in India in the future. I want to share the importance of work-life balance and create a healthier academic environment for my future students and colleagues. Scientifically, I will also bring back new research methods, collaborations, and perspectives that I discovered during my stay at Sorbonne University. At the same time, I believe my background in finance algorithms and optimization also contributed to the research discussions at LIP6, where my tools were applied to scientific topics.

Sunny: International mobility encourages collaboration and knowledge exchange between institutions. When I return to India, I will be able to share new techniques, research approaches, and experiences with my colleagues and laboratory. I also think these exchanges are beneficial for Sorbonne University because they create connections with researchers and students from different countries and scientific cultures, which can lead to future collaborations. We made connections that will last.

• How has this mobility experience influenced your personal and professional development?

Sabrina: This experience changed my perspective completely. Before coming here, I only imagined my future in India. Now, I realize that I can work internationally and collaborate with people from all over the world. Personally, I became more open-minded. Meeting people from different cultures broadened my horizons. Professionally, it is also a valuable experience for my résumé and future career.

Sunny: It has truly been a life-changing experience. Working with researchers and students from different countries helped me improve my communication skills and my English. It also made me realize how many possibilities exist beyond our home country and our usual environment.

• What has been the most meaningful aspect of your stay at Sorbonne University?

Sabrina: Beyond the academic side, I was deeply touched by the kindness and support I received. When I arrived, I realized that the accommodation initially planned for me was not compatible with my religious beliefs because the bathroom was shared between men and women. I was very embarrassed to mention it, but the mobility team immediately understood my situation and helped me find another residence with a women-only floor that matched my budget. From the beginning to the end, everyone made me feel comfortable and supported. I am especially grateful to the people who helped me and of course to my tutor, who believed in me from the very beginning.

Sunny: For me, the most meaningful aspect was the collaboration with people from many different backgrounds. Sharing techniques, knowledge, and scientific approaches with others was extremely rewarding. It reminded me how important international collaboration is in research.

• Would you recommend this experience to other students?

Sabrina: Absolutely. I would simply say: do it. Leave your comfort zone and break the bubble you live in. You become a better version of yourself when you discover new cultures and ways of thinking. This experience made me realize that another life beyond your hometown is possible.

Sunny: Yes, definitely. It is an experience that changes your vision of the world and opens many opportunities, both personally and professionally.

• If you had to describe your Erasmus+ experience in one sentence, what would it be?

Sabrina: It was an enriching and magical experience.

Sunny: A life-changing experience that opened my mind to new possibilities.