Charles, apprentice at the CEA, specializing in International Energy Transitions

When I heard that the apprenticeship was available for PSIA students, I decided to apply for this challenging track. Balancing between classes and work can be difficult at times but it is also rewarding, allowing you to directly put into practice what you studied at Sciences Po, while immersing yourself in a company. My main objective was to have a smooth transition from my studies to work. 

During my apprenticeship track, along with my master in International Energy, I was working at the European Affairs Direction of the Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), one of the main research and technology organizations in France. 

My main tasks were to follow European politics around Research, Development, Innovation and Industry while trying to understand the impacts on the European R&D ecosystem. I was also in charge of monitoring CEA’s activities inside EARTO, the European Association of Research and Technology Organizations. Finally, I was also part of the editorial team of la Lettre Européenne, CEA’s newsletter on all things European. 

I applied directly on the CEA’s website for the position I was interested in. The process was efficient and I soon heard from the recruiting team that my application was successful. 

After a wonderful year working on European Affairs, I recently joined the French Embassy in South Korea as deputy nuclear advisor. I am working on subjects related to energy and new technologies such as semiconductors, batteries or solar panels. 

My year as an apprentice was very useful in helping me find a job that is directly in line with my studies and in a very competitive market. It is an exciting opportunity and I can't wait to see what this new role will offer!