Eve de Saint Jores (photo credit: Olivier Arquès)
My name is Eve de Saint Jores and I had the chance of a lifetime to spend a year at the European Institute after a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations in Paris. Ten years later, I am the Director of Americas for M.Chapoutier wines, and am in charge of a team developing sales across the continent. This achievement would have been much more difficult without the LSE worldwide reputation, and the skills and mindset I acquired at the EI.
You could think that studying European political economy has nothing to do with the wine business. However, it really comes handy when you need to manage a company whose business is directly affected by the trade relationships between the EU and the USA. For example, knowing how the institutions work really helped me when a trade dispute between airlines resulted in a sanction of 25% additional tariffs imposed by the United States on French wines.
The European Institute offers much more than some of the best specialized courses in the world. It shapes your mind and teaches you to always listen and research, and to be constantly open to other people’s points of views - especially if they are easier to dismiss on the first place. This is also an extremely stimulating environment which drives you to go over and beyond, in order to be up to the brilliant and challenging minds of your teachers, speakers, and peers. Being part of this community is also a unique opportunity to learn how to work with people from all over the world having different backgrounds and cultures. This will undoubtedly be a key asset in any place you will choose to work afterwards.
I strongly encourage any potential students to apply since it will be the game changer of your life. Plus, you could also have fantastic surprises: I had the chance to meet the Queen in person thanks to the European Institute!
I wish you the best and recommend pouring glasses of French and English sparkling wines to take and celebrate your decision! Cheers!