Could you please introduce yourself ?
Hello, my name is Alex. I am a first-year bachelor student at Ecole Polytechnique. Before coming here, I got through an IB baccalaureate in Copenhagen. I am currently planning on majoring in Math and Computer
Science.
Why did you choose the Bachelor of Science of Ecole Polytechnique ?
For many reasons: the possibility of doing a double Major in Mathematics & Computer Science during the second and third year and the fact that it is one of the best Math & CS schools in the world, and with an history.
Furthermore, I come from an international background, so the fact that my classmates come from so many different countries definitely appealed to me.
Finally, the fact that the program encapsulates 3 double majors gave me the ability to explore the different options during the first semester and in general to broaden my perspective and horizon regardless of what you decide to focus on in the future. For example, despite focusing on computer science and mathematics, I am taking an economics course this semester where I am clearly seeing the applications of my interests which we have learnt during the previous semester to a seemingly very different field. The people and teachers would be a driving force.
Could you tell us how the first year is going?
I am really enjoying my experience in the program. It’s quite a small program, which has a
very international and quite culturally diverse atmosphere. In the first semester, I have made
some great friends and memories. It has been quite academically challenging. In one semester you learn the same as in 2 years of IB. Likely at some point you will feel stuck, so don’t be afraid to use the resources of the school to seek out help.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I am exploring the different tracks for development (for which the program offers ample opportunities). One that is particularly appealing to me in the long term is getting a masters/phd.
Any piece of advice to future Bachelor students that you would like to share?
If you choose to join the bachelor program, my piece of advice to you and my personal biggest takeaway would be: don’t be afraid to challenge yourself (never shy away from something just because it seems too hard), as through your time in the program you will find you can achieve a lot more than you thought. By challenging yourself, you also find your strengths and interests, and figure out what you really enjoy doing, and by the end of the year or the semester you will see how much you have grown as a person.