Could you please introduce yourself ?
Hello, My name is Krea. I am half Lebanese, half Thai, and I am a Math and Economics student here. I have lived mostly in Lebanon where I did the Lebanese baccalaureate then I switched to A levels after moving to Barcelona, Spain. Growing up, I loved drawing and painting but also I was really into astronomy and math. Coming to the bachelor, I thought I wanted to pursue physics, but thanks to the program, it definitely sparked my interest in Economics. I find Economics to be an intellectually stimulating field that constantly challenges me to think critically and creatively. Whether it's analyzing macroeconomic trends or understanding microeconomic behavior, there's always something new to learn and discover.
Why did you choose the Bachelor of Science of Ecole Polytechnique ?
I chose the bachelor program at École Polytechnique because of its reputation for academic excellence and its emphasis on multidisciplinary education. I was drawn to the program's focus on science, engineering, and economics, which I believe provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for a range of careers in industry, research, and academia.
I was also attracted to Polytechnique’s commitment to fostering an international community of students and faculty. The program offers opportunities to study abroad and participate in research projects with international partners, which I believe will provide me with a global perspective and help me develop strong cross-cultural communication skills.
Could you tell us how the second year is going ?
I feel like I'm building on the strong foundation that I developed in my first year. The coursework is more advanced and challenging, but I'm enjoying the opportunity to delve deeper into topics that interest me. I currently am researching at CREST, the economic research center on campus, on sustainable finance labels. It has deepened my understanding of the intersection between economics and sustainability, and how these fields can work together to address pressing global challenges.
In addition to academic studies, I keep myself busy with extracurricular activities.
I spend my free time playing sports to stay active and relieve stress, and I have also founded the first bachelor-run consulting committee which provides opportunities to work on real-life projects, and develop practical skills in areas such as data analysis, strategic thinking and communication.
Do you have a favourite course?
Finance is my favorite course because it’s a fascinating subject that deals with the management of money and the allocation of resources. Finance is a dynamic field that is constantly evolving, with new financial products and technologies emerging all the time. I have gained a deeper understanding of how financial markets work and how financial decisions can impact the wider economy.
What would be a great memory of your second year in the Program that you would like to share with future students?
I have had unforgettable moments in the bachelor. But my personal favorite is meeting professionals including the founder and CFO of a big tech company and various partners from prestigious firms. These encounters provided me with valuable personal insights and deepened my understanding of what it takes to succeed in the business world. For example, hearing the founder’s story and challenges he faced along the way was truly inspiring and gave me a new appreciation for the hard work and perseverance that is required to succeed as an entrepreneur. Overall, I am grateful for the opportunities they provided me with to learn and grow both personally and professionally.
What are your ambitions for the future?
As for my ambitions for the future, I'm interested in pursuing a career in the corporate world, although I haven't yet decided on a specific industry or role. However, what's important to me is finding a firm that values responsibility and gives its employees the opportunity to have an impact. Additionally, I'm passionate about sustainability, and I hope to be able to contribute to this area in my future career. My research in sustainable finance has given me a deeper understanding of the role that financial institutions can play in promoting environmental and social sustainability, and I believe that the corporate world has a critical role to play in addressing global sustainability challenges.
Any piece of advice to future Bachelor students that you would like to share?
I would advise prospect bachelor students to be prepared to work hard, stay organized, seek help when you need it, and most importantly take advantage of opportunities. Polytechnique offers many opportunities for students whether it is research projects, internships, or study abroad programs. In addition, Polytechnique has a wide variety of sports to choose from so take these opportunities to gain valuable experience and make the most of your time as a student.