Without even realizing it, the workload and the school’s high standards allowed me to develop a level of professional organization that I didn’t have when I arrived, given my background. In general, the grandes écoles foster this intellectual independence—something I wasn’t aware of before coming here, at least not to this extent.
What is your educational background?
Originally from Charente-Maritime, I earned a science and life sciences baccalaureate (with honors) at Émiles Combe High School in Pons. Afterward, I enrolled in the civil engineering program at the IUT in Bordeaux. Wanting to continue my studies and aware of my weaknesses in science, I enrolled in the ATS civil engineering preparatory program in Anglet. During that year, my teachers advised me to apply to the ENS, so here I am!
Once I arrived at the Saclay campus, I began my studies in the SAPHIRE program at ENS Paris-Saclay. I won’t hide the fact that adjusting to the program was difficult, but I managed to surround myself with classmates who helped me rise to the challenge. During my second year, I followed the MAISES track in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, which focuses on materials and construction. Finally, I completed my year with an internship at the University of Kaiserslautern (Germany). Working alongside professors and researchers, we studied the penetration of missiles into granular media. I completed my studies at ENS Paris-Saclay by pursuing the M2FeSup track in Civil Engineering.
Why did you choose to take the agrégation exam?
Well, why not? More seriously, I wanted to confirm my interest in teaching. I earned the agrégation at the end of the year, notably by presenting an industry-related portfolio on the ITER nuclear fusion project.
In conclusion, this M2 year focused on teaching was a success on every level. First, I had a wonderful year in which the class’s team spirit, combined with a teaching staff that went out of their way to support us, allowed us to excel during the agrégation exams. I realized that teaching didn’t passion me enough to make it my career.
Finally, I was recently selected as a winner of the 2023 APK competition after submitting my industry application.
It was a default choice, but not only that. First, it helped me realize that teaching wasn’t for me. Second, it allowed me to significantly improve my oral communication skills, which were previously quite average.
What did the ENS degree bring you?
The degree from ENS Paris-Saclay—or, more generally, the courses we take—offer unparalleled value. Whether it’s the professors or the students, everyone here is committed to doing their best, and that’s truly appreciated. Without even realizing it, the workload and the school’s high standards helped me develop a sense of professional organization that I lacked when I arrived, given my background. In general, the grandes écoles foster this intellectual independence—something I wasn’t aware of before coming here, at least not to this extent.
What are your career plans?
I hope to join EDF for the same reasons as before: to work for a cause that is dear to me and that I consider essential—energy.
What would you like to say to students who are hesitant about coming to ENS Paris-Saclay or taking the agrégation exam?
It’s quite complicated… I’d say: follow your instincts, and if you’re unsure, then opt for the Agrégation track, which not only allows you to acquire teaching skills that are also highly valued in the business world but also leaves you with options for the future. I’m almost certain that my agrégation will never be useful to me, but the training I underwent to earn it was incredibly enriching—especially thanks to the close relationship I had with the professors, who were very supportive and offered great advice.
Awards and Honors
- 2023 : Winner of the 2023 award in the architects/engineers category from the Association for the Promotion of Steel Construction Education (APK) for the ITER project, a fusion of engineering and education. The APK is a competition organized by an institution that bridges the gap between steel construction engineering and education. Check out the latest news.