Lucile Collin, class of 2019

CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND? 

After a Baccalauréat in Economics and Social Sciences, I moved to London to do a Bachelor's degree in European Social and Political Studies at University College London (UCL). For two years I studied political science, history, philosophy, law, international relations, political economy, Spanish and Italian, together with other students from all over Europe - and the world. After an Erasmus year spent between Italy (Bologna) and Spain (Madrid) to perfect my languages, I went back to London to finish my Bachelor's degree with a thesis in European law.

>These years spent discovering Europe convinced me that I wanted to pursue a career in European affairs. I therefore embarked on a Master in European Affairs at the School of Public Affairs at Sciences Po. I specialised in markets and regulation*, with more advanced courses in law and economics, particularly in competition and financial services.

After my internship at the European Commission's Directorate-General (DG) for Competition, I worked for a year at  a public affairs firm in Brussels. At this time, I took the European competitive examination  and then joined the European Commission as a trainee official in the Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union DG (FISMA). I first worked as a public policy officer in sustainable finance and fintech, before joining the communication team. 

WHAT WERE THE MAIN STEPS IN BUILDING YOUR CAREER PLAN?

When I was in  high school, I already knew that I wanted to work in an international organisation! I had a passion for languages and a desire for international experience. That's why I went to London for the first part of my studies, to have  full multicultural immersion. In 2016, I became an EPSO Ambassador at UCL, a role that consisted of promoting European careers on my campus, which I then continued during my first year of the Master's programme at Sciences Po. This experience convinced me that I wanted to pursue this path myself.

I did some internships in European affairs - and I loved it! I spent a few weeks at the European Commission Representation in London in 2016, during the Brexit referendum, the result of which was a real shock for the whole team. I then worked on economic and financial issues at the Secretariat General for European Affairs (SGAE) in Paris the following year. Finally, I did my final internship at the Commission's DG for Competition in Brussels, where I worked on antitrust cases in the digital and high-tech sector - the so-called "Big Tech", under the famous Commissioner Margrethe Vestager. This experience showed me the extent to which what we were doing could change the daily lives of Europeans. 

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS LIKE FOR THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AT THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION AND WHAT ARE THE MAIN FEATURES OF YOUR JOB TODAY?

To get a permanent position as an official in the European institutions, you have to pass one of the competitive examinations  organised by the EPSO (European Personnel Selection Office). I entered through a general competition at the grade of AD5, which is the grade accessible to young graduates. First, I had to pass verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning tests on a computer, then a 'mailbox' test, and finally a series of tests in the assessment centre (skills and motivation interviews, case study, oral presentation and group exercise). Finally, I was put on a 'reserve list' for one year. Successful candidates then have to apply for the available positions in order to be finally recruited. 

As a communication officer at the DG for FISMA, my tasks are very varied and cover many subjects. In particular, I prepare a morning press review once a week, as well as a more analytical weekly press review, which is circulated to the whole DG and to the Commissioner and her team. I am particularly involved in digital finance (fintech, crypto-assets, cyber), as well as retail financial services (payments, credit, investment): I prepare press releases, speeches, the "line to take" on sensitive topics, or answers to journalists' questions, all in close cooperation with the policy units and the spokesperson's service. I also have a role in coordinating our external communication activities through the management of a press and media schedule.

I have also become the 'internal communication' correspondent in my DG, a role that has become increasingly important with the coronavirus crisis and the widespread use of teleworking: I have to ensure a good flow of information within the DG, organise meetings for the entire  staff, keep our intranet up to date, and launch initiatives to keep the teams united and motivated... In short, I am never bored! 

WHAT CONTRIBUTIONS DID YOUR TRAINING AT THE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS MAKE TO THE POSITION YOU HOLD TODAY?

The School of Public Affairs, and in particular the Master in European Affairs gave me a very good understanding of the public sector, the European institutions and their functions. I also acquired solid fundamentals in law and economics that  allowed me to better grasp  a position in one of the most technical DGs of the Commission.

Beyond the technical knowledge, my studies at Sciences Po taught me a skill that is essential for the job I do today: communication, or how to write in a concise manner or explain complex subjects with simple words. This is a real challenge at a time when explaining European policies has become a real challenge for society.

Finally, I took the CPCE prep course at Sciences Po to prepare for the EPSO exam... with success! 

WOULD YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE TO GIVE TO A STUDENT WHO WANTS TO GO INTO EUROPEAN CAREERS TODAY?

Don't be discouraged by the EPSO exams! The success statistics can be disconcerting - even frightening - but with good preparation and regular training, you will eventually succeed.

It is also possible to join the institutions as a temporary or contract agent. Profiles of lawyers or economists are highly valued at the Commission. Blue Book internships are also a great way to get to know the Commission - and can now lead to selection for the Young Professionals programme, which allows you to experience different Commission departments for two years.

Finally, careers outside the institutions can be just as interesting: the 'European bubble' is full of opportunities in public affairs or law firms, professional associations, NGOs... which can also lead to work on exciting European issues.

 * The Markets and Regulation policy stream no longer exists but the issues and topics covered in this policy stream have been maintained and are offered in the other policy streams of the School of Public Affairs and/or as elective courses. 

LEARN MORE

• The Master in European Affairs at the School of Public Affairs
• Preparation for the European competitive examinations at the School of Public Affairs

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