Could you please introduce yourself?
Hello, my name is Emma Sampietro and I am a third year bachelor student at École Polytechnique. I am majoring in mathematics and physics with a minor in biology. I come from Como, a city in the north of Italy on Lake Como, close to Milan. I grew up and lived my whole life there before coming to the bachelor program, so I was very excited to meet people coming from all around the world!
How did you get passionate for science?
My passion for science started when I was a little girl and dreamed of becoming an astronaut. My parents took my dream seriously, and for my birthday one year, they gifted me “a piece of the moon”, or rather, they donated it to display a lunar fragment in the Science and Technology Museum in Milan. At the inauguration, Samantha Cristoforetti, an Italian female astronaut, was presenting. I was around 10 years old, and seeing an Italian woman achieve what I aspired to do made me believe that I could too! This is why I believe in the power of role models, especially for women in underrepresented fields, and I aspire to become one for other girls one day.
Why did you choose the Bachelor of Science of Ecole Polytechnique?
First I found out about Ecole Polytechnique’s Bachelor of Science at the end of high school when I was looking for places where I could study STEM subjects in English in Europe, because I wanted to have an experience abroad. Then I chose to study here because of the possibility to study both maths and physics, the quality of the education and the proximity to Paris. Moreover, I really liked the program’s international environment, where half of the students come from all over the world, which is a unique strength of the bachelor’s program. Additionally, the small promotion size (with around 150 students per year) was something I valued, as it promotes a strong sense of community, where everyone knows, helps and supports each other!
Do you have a favourite course?
I am currently taking a probability maths course on stochastic processes, which are random processes in time. I find this course particularly fascinating because of its many applications, especially in biology. Biological systems are often unpredictable due to randomness, which stochastic processes help to model making them a powerful tool! I also found the Analysis course in my first semester particularly challenging. Coming from high school, I had never encountered proof-based mathematics, so I had to completely change the way I approached the subject. Like all new challenges, it was very difficult at first, but I ended up loving it! It taught me that hard work pays off and it reminded me not to compare myself to others, as everyone learns at their own pace.
What do you like about the campus life?
I really like that all Bachelor students live in the same building, which helps build strong relationships, and makes learning together more fun and enjoyable! We have common spaces and study rooms in our building where we can meet and work on projects together. The strong community and the program’s small size create a unique and supportive environment, something I haven’t found anywhere else! I also love the nature surrounding the campus. Being able to run through the nearby fields is something I truly appreciate.
Are you part of any sports, art or music association on campus?
In my second year, I was a board member of VolunteerX, the bachelor’s volunteering committee. Alongside other members, I helped organize many fundraising events, including food sales, thrift shops with donated items, and charity runs on campus.
I also really enjoy running, and thanks to the running committee, I found other people training for the Paris marathon, and we started training together!
What are your ambitions for next year?
I applied to master’s programs for next year. I received an offer for the master’s in Computational and Mathematical Engineering at Stanford University. I discovered my master’s program through former bachelor students who are currently studying there. The Bachelor community remains strong even after graduation: we like to say “Once a bachelor, always a bachelor”! They shared their experience and guided me through my decision.
Any piece of advice to future Bachelor students that you would like to share?
Don't hesitate to reach out: many people have faced the same challenges that you are facing and are willing to help! I've experienced firsthand how supportive this community is, with students from previous promotions, teaching assistants, and professors invested in my academic and personal success. Conversations with past students helped me navigate my master's program choices, while faculty guidance ensured I made the most of my education. For me, the people are part of what makes our bachelor’s program great!