Business in the City of Lights

Last January, students from the Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis had the opportunity to visit Delight Data, a French company specializing in data-driven customer experience optimization.

They were welcomed by Eric de Rugy, President and Co-Founder, who spoke to them about the company’s origins and mission. Delight Data helps businesses enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty by analyzing and leveraging real-time customer feedback, behavioral data, and performance indicators across multiple channels. Their solutions support clients in identifying pain points, improving operational efficiency, and delivering more personalized, effective service. The students gained valuable insight into how data can drive strategic decision-making in a business context.

The visit was part of a semester-long program, which takes place every spring term. This program model, developed jointly by Accent and Olin, includes various academic and cultural components. Upon arrival in Paris, students take part in an intensive cultural and academic orientation. To introduce them to French business environment and culture, they participate in a series of guest lectures by local scholars and experts, and in a visit to a Paris-based business, such as Delight Data.

Program participants also take a French Language and Culture course, taught at the Accent Study Center by local faculty. With most of the classroom hours frontloaded early in the semester, this course helps students improve their communication skills in French, allowing them to have a more meaningful experience in Paris. The course incorporates elements of French culture and history as well, to provide participants with a deeper understanding of local culture and help them adjust better to life in France.

At the end of this introductory period, students are ready to dive into their semester courses at a local institution, Paris School of Business. They enroll in various classes in business, management, and finance, gaining a global insight into their field of study. Throughout the semester, Accent is an on-site advocate. Accent staff facilitate course registration and advise students on course progress, local teaching styles, and assignments.

Accent has experience developing and supporting semester-long programs in all its locations. To start conversations about future programs, please reach out to Accent’s Program Development team at development@accentglobal.com