The rigorous academic environment at PSIA with demanding schedules and multiple overlapping deadlines, requires strong planning and time management skills. Having had prior work experience contributed in part to my ability to prioritize effectively, leaving me with the necessary breathing space to also enjoy my time in Paris and to have experiences beyond the classroom. Making time for life outside of academics ultimately helped me stay grounded and in a good place, both mentally and physically, to succeed. Moreover, I found classes at Sciences Po to be very much debate-based. Sharing classrooms with brilliant peers with diverse perspectives helped me digest complex material in ways I wouldn’t have been able to achieve on my own.

Engaging directly with my professors, particularly those working in areas aligned with my professional ambitions, proved invaluable. These conversations helped me understand the state of play in the field I aim to enter while also offering insight into how to navigate it and allowing me to learn about professional paths I hadn’t known existed.

Additionally, the breadth of concentrations and courses offered at PSIA allowed me to curate a specialised curriculum that was closely aligned with my post-graduation goals. Having worked for two years prior to joining Sciences Po, I appreciated the master’s program as a unique blend of theoretical insight and practical application, an ideal combination for making academic learning professionally relevant.

My main advice would be to approach the program with clear goals regarding what you want to learn and which skills you aim to develop. Use that clarity to build a curriculum that fits your professional objectives. I also strongly recommend joining one of the law clinics as it was the most rewarding part of my experience at Sciences Po. It offered the ideal mix of academic work and hands-on engagement with a year-long project developed in collaboration with an external organization.

Finally, take full advantage of the extensive resources available at PSIA and Sciences Po more broadly. Attend conferences, many of which host outstanding speakers, and don’t hesitate to explore opportunities beyond PSIA, whether in the School of Law, CERI, or through student associations. The interdisciplinary environment can greatly enrich your academic and professional trajectory.