As part of the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) “Discovering Research in a European Context”, organized by the Université Polytechnique Hauts-de-France, two ESPOL master’s students had the opportunity to explore the inner workings of research at the European level. Among them, Éléa, a second-year Master’s student in Digital Politics and Governance, reflects on an immersive and enriching experience.
Two ESPOL students take part in a BIP on European research
A hands-on immersion into the world of research
Offered within the framework of the EUNICE European university alliance, of which the Université Catholique de Lille is an associate partner, this hybrid programme brought together students from partner countries, mainly at Master’s and PhD levels. After a first week of online courses, participants met for a week of on-site activities.
The programme included research methodology, literature review workshops, seminars on science communication, and meetings with European researchers and professionals. “The goal was not just to learn methods, but really to put us in the position of researchers,” explains Éléa. “We were shown very concretely how to evolve in this field.”
Students also took part in discussions on European funding opportunities and visited the University of Mons for the “Mardi des Chercheurs,” an event bringing together PhD candidates and early-career researchers. An experience that fully immersed them in the academic environment.
Confirming a career path
For Éléa, taking part in the programme was part of an already well-defined plan: “I’m considering pursuing a PhD in Europe. This programme allowed me to interact with PhD students and better understand the different possible paths.”
Beyond the academic content, she highlights the practical advice provided by speakers: “They really managed to demystify the whole process and gave concrete guidance on what we can do now to secure funding, what comes after a PhD, and how to build a project in the medium term,” she adds.
A truly intercultural experience
The BIP was also marked by strong international diversity, with participants coming from across Europe as well as from countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Brazil.
“It’s very enriching to compare approaches,” says Éléa. “For example, in some countries like Italy, PhD topics are often proposed by supervisors, whereas in France, doctoral students tend to take more initiative.” These exchanges helped participants better understand different academic cultures and their specificities.
Building lasting connections
Beyond the academic learning, Éléa especially values the human dimension of the experience. “The research world is quite small, so meeting other students and academics is a real opportunity.”
She emphasizes the importance of approaching such programmes with an open mindset: “You have to go with the intention of meeting people, exchanging ideas, and building connections. Everyone had that mindset, which made it possible to create genuine connections.”
An experience she strongly recommends to all students interested in research and European opportunities.
