Margaux Vincent, Class of 2017

CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND? 

I obtained a dual degree in Political Economy of Europe from Sciences Po and the London School of Economics, after a Bachelor's degree in Applied Economics, followed by a Master's degree in International Economics at the University of Paris-Dauphine. This dual degree brought a more political dimension to my economic career and focused it on public governance issues.

I also completed a Master's degree in Neuroscience at Columbia University, New York, to enrich my economic knowledge with a behavioural approach. I now work at the OECD on issues related to public finance and decentralisation. 

WHAT CONTRIBUTIONS DID YOUR STUDY AT THE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, AND MORE PARTICULARLY THE MASTER IN EUROPEAN AFFAIRS MAKE TO THE POSITION YOU HOLD TODAY? 

The Master in European Affairs at the School of Public Affairs allowed me to deepen my understanding of the European system and its institutions. This was essential in the development of my career because I was able to combine theoretical knowledge in economics with institutional and public policy issues. 

This mobility proved to be key in the shaping of my professional path. It allowed me to discover many professions around the European Union, combining the economy and the public sector. I remember a trip to Brussels and Luxembourg during my first year at Sciences Po, during which we visited various European institutions and met several European officials. It was also possible to take preparatory courses for the European competitions during that first year.

I was able to complement my studies at the School of Public Affairs with various internships in public institutions, such as the Directorate General of the Treasury. As I gained experience, I progressively focused on public finance issues, and I am currently working in this field.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE TO GIVE A STUDENT OR A FUTURE YOUNG GRADUATE?

Curiosity. This can take the form of academic experiences abroad, a variety of internships or various group engagements, but most of all in your personal life - taking time to read, write, play a musical instrument. This brings a different way of looking at the world: questioning rather than answering, which I think is essential in learning and building oneself. Questioning brings finer insights to the world in which we evolve and the necessary perspective to move forward with less confusion.

learn more

• The Master in European Affairs of the School of Public Affairs 
• The Dual Master’s Degrees of the School of Public Affairs 

Download our brochure