Xinhui TAM is an Associate Consultant at a European-headquartered consulting firm and an alumna in Economics from Nanyang Technological University, graduating in July 2024. She participated in the third edition of the France Excellence Summer School Program (French+Science Programs 2024) by Campus France, sponsored by the Embassy of France in Singapore.

Bonjour Xinhui! Congratulations on representing NTU for this program! Could you share what motivated you to apply? Did you already know French before joining the program?

Bonjour Estelle! Thank you very much :) I first learned about this unique scholarship through a mass email from you, the French coordinator at NTU. My interest in marine technology, coupled with a strong desire to improve my French after two enjoyable semesters studying it at NTU, made this program a perfect fit for my goals.

What does a typical day look like for a France Excellence Summer School Program participant in Brittany, France?

A typical day at the France Excellence Summer School in Brest, located in Brittany, was structured but filled with diverse experiences. Each morning, I’d start by catching a dedicated bus that transported students from our university residence to the language school. There, I joined classmates grouped by proficiency level for three hours of immersive French lessons, finishing around noon.

Lunchtime was spent socializing with other students or relaxing by the beach, just a staircase away from the school. In the afternoons, the program organized themed activities like company tours and museum visits. We usually wrapped up around 4 p.m., after which we’d either explore the city centre for dinner and shopping or return to our residence for an early night.

How about weekends?

Saturdays were often reserved for group excursions. For instance, we visited notable landmarks with transportation arranged specifically for participants. This was a fantastic experience, especially since reaching some of these places independently could have been challenging.

Sundays were free days for personal exploration. On one Sunday, I joined a friend and his host family on a cultural trip to a small town near Brest, where we enjoyed a hike and attended a classical music concert at a local church.

In what ways did the program help you achieve your academic or personal goals? Can you describe your overall experience?

The experience was incredibly enriching, both professionally and personally. As the only Singaporean in the program, I developed valuable communication and teamwork skills, working closely with peers from diverse backgrounds who became friends. Through business visits, I observed R&D and innovation firsthand, exploring topics from algae and marine biology to skincare production and oil spill management. The program was comprehensive, exposing us to private firms, NGOs, museums, and aquariums, giving a holistic view of the field. We even visited many beautiful places as part of our excursions.

Personally, the experience deepened my cultural curiosity and strengthened my desire to return to France for future studies or work. Now, working in a European company’s satellite office with a diverse international team, I can see how the program prepared me to thrive in a global environment.

What were some highlights for you? Which parts of the program did you enjoy most?

I genuinely enjoyed every part of the program (definitely no dull moments!), as everything was new, with so much to learn. A key highlight was visiting Mont Saint Michel; its majesty and historical depth left a lasting impression, especially after learning about it on a tour of the abbey. Another highlight was a spontaneous boat trip around Brest, which the program managers organized on our request due to beautiful weather—such a memorable experience!

Were there any challenges you faced?

No major challenges, really!

How did the program support you along the way?

Participating in the program was straightforward and well-organized. The scholarship covered flights, train tickets, programme and accommodation fees, and provided an allowance for living expenses. Logistically, the program was very supportive, booking all necessary tickets in advance, which made things hassle-free.

How does learning French full-time at a language school in France compared to part-time studies at universities ?

Immersing oneself in the language goes beyond classroom time—French is everywhere, from public information boards to everyday interactions at the store. I’d say both experiences are complementary, and experiencing both is invaluable for anyone’s French learning journey.

I'm always happy to connect with anyone curious about this scholarship or the program. Feel free to reach out via LinkedIn if you have questions about the application process, my experiences, or learning French in general!
Merci beaucoup!

Interview carried out on 6 November 2024 by Estelle Bech

Redaction: Estelle Bech, Xinhui Tam

The French+Science programme organised by Campus France is designed for international English-speaking students in sciences, who may be complete beginner in French. Any undergraduate students (bachelor’s level) seeking a period of language, scientific, and cultural immersion in France is welcome to apply. Its objectives are (1) to explore scientific and technical cutting edge sectors through site visits to companies, conferences and encounters with specialities in the fields, (2) to acquire or improve communication skills in French, and (3) to discover four of the most beautiful regions of France.

The programme lasts 3 to 4 weeks and runs between June and July every year. It includes a complete academic and logistical package: French classes in the morning and visits to companies and institutes specialised in the field of choice in the afternoon. Three options are available for accommodation during the stay (university housing, host family, private apartment).

Four options are currently available:

• Sustainable development in Southern part of France (Montpellier)
• Science and technology of the Sea in Western part of France (Bretagne – Britany)
• Micro, nano and smart technology for industrial applications in Eastern part of France (Besançon)
• Transport and energy in Western part of France (Normandy)

The Embassy of France in Singapore is granting several scholarships every year to fully sponsor the programmes for Singaporian students (3 scholarships awarded in 2022). Applications will open in February 2025.

For further information on the scholarships’ process, you can contact us at [email protected]