BIOSANTEXC program

Why did you choose ENS Rennes ?

Coming to ENS Rennes was serendipitous for me. Initially, I was going to pursue my master’s thesis remotely from elsewhere; however, some unprecedented circumstances led me to search for a new project at the last minute. It was in May that my home institute forwarded proposals from ENS, and one particular project appealed to me in terms of its natural history background and the technical experience that I’d gain throughout its course. Hence, my decision to choose ENS Rennes mainly revolved around the project that my supervisor, Dr Françoise Amélineau, was offering, and coming here turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life

What studies did you do before ? What would you like to do after ENS Rennes ?

The system at my home institute is such that in the first year of undergraduate studies, students undertake courses in five subjects: physics, mathematics, biological sciences, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences. In the second year, this condenses to three pre-major subjects - biological sciences, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences, in my case. Finally, in the third, fourth, and fifth years, we pursue a single subject that defines our major. In my case, a major in biological sciences introduced me to a vast array of courses covering a spectrum from micro to macro biology. I was piqued by courses like integrative zoology and behavioural biology, which made me realise my true interests and kindled a fond passion for pursuing them in my further studies. After finishing my master’s thesis at ENS Rennes, I’m planning to apply for another master’s degree to explore in depth the realms of ethology to make an informed decision for a PhD.

Did you experience a culture shock when you arrived in France ?

I did experience a culture shock when I arrived in France; however, since my visit to Rennes immediately followed my last trip to Canada, where I was for a summer internship, I was expecting it and, hence, more prepared this time. It was mainly the language barrier, which seemed daunting at first, but I made it a point to learn French bit by bit on my own for the last few months, and eventually, I’ve gotten more and more confident just being on my own. It took some time to get used to the food, but along the way, I’ve grown to appreciate and admire the diversity and rich culture of culinary traditions here, especially in the province of Bretagne.

What difficulties did/do you encounter during your international experience ?

Apart from the piercing winds on cold winter evenings, I’ve had little to no difficulties institutionalising here. The head of international cooperation at ENS Rennes, Madame Deborah France-Piquet, helped with such endearment and cordiality that I felt right at home. From opening a bank account, taking care of the residential contract, getting my files approved by the French Ministry of Education to as basic as getting a sim card or lending cutlery, she has made this journey streamlined and comfortable beyond belief. Dr Camille Vautier and my supervisor, Dr Françoise Amélineau, catered to the smallest of queries I had before the internship even began. From clarifying the type of visa that I should apply for and sifting through healthcare options to as simple as suggesting different routes to reach campus or detailed clothing options for winter, they left no room for error in getting me settled in. One of the most memorable moments was going grocery shopping with them, which made the first weeks of my stay absolutely seamless. So, to answer the question succinctly, because of the most amicable of people at ENS Rennes and Ecobio at the University de Rennes, Beaulieu and the gems of friends that I made after coming here, I had no difficulties thus far along the course of this wonderful experience.