Excellence Beyond Campus: The Power of HEC Paris’ Online Learning
"Through collaboration and spirited exchanges of ideas, we transcended the limitations of the virtual classroom, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that enriched our collective learning experience."
Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I ventured into the world of luxury management through HEC Paris' virtual Luxury Management summer school. Initially, I believed that the online format of the program might dampen the excitement, but the way the course was structured offered unique opportunities for learning and growth. Therefore, this experience has profoundly impacted my career journey.
Enrolled in the Luxury Management summer school program at HEC Paris in 2022, my aspirations extended beyond the acquisition of theoretical knowledge; they encompassed a desire to gain insights into the vibrant student life and academic endeavours that define HEC Paris. Little did I expect that this summer school would not only satisfy my curiosity but also spark a strong aspiration to become a student and ambassador of the HEC Paris community.
Within the virtual classrooms of HEC Paris, I found myself engaged in dynamic discussions with experts hailing from diverse fields, each offering unique perspectives and insights into the intricacies of luxury management. From gemmology to hospitality, Haute Couture to selective retail, the depth of expertise showcased during these sessions were truly enlightening, broadening my understanding of the multifaceted nature of the luxury industry.
Despite the physical distance separating us, the connections forged with my fellow peers proved to be profound and enduring. Through collaboration and spirited exchanges of ideas, we transcended the limitations of the virtual classroom, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that enriched our collective learning experience. Each interaction served as a reminder of the power of diversity in driving innovation and fostering a global perspective in our approach to luxury management. Even now, two years later, I am still in contact with friends I met during this summer school.
As we delved into our final project, tasked with envisioning an in-store post-pandemic experience for Tiffany, the bonds forged during our virtual journey proved invaluable. We were assigned to diverse teams, intentionally structured to include individuals from a variety of backgrounds. This, despite the natural tendency for people to gravitate towards those similar to themselves, was crucial in maximizing the richness of our ideas. It highlighted the strength of our collective synergy, demonstrating that the more diverse the team, the better and more innovative the ideas generated. Drawing upon our collective insights and creative prowess, we embarked on a collaboration that not only showcased our individual talents but highlighted the strength of our diverse backgrounds and cultures. From brainstorming sessions to design iterations, each step of the process was marked by a spirit of collaboration and mutual support, underscoring the transformative power of teamwork in overcoming challenges and driving innovation.
Motivated by the enriching experiences and strong community spirit in the virtual setting, I made the decision to pursue a Master's in Marketing at HEC Paris, seeing it as a fresh start full of potential opportunities. I sense the same pursuit of excellence in learning in this master as I did in the summer school. At HEC Paris, I found the Women in Business Luxury Department and Retail & Luxury clubs truly inspiring in crafting my path. Being part of these communities has not only provided valuable insights into the industry but has also connected me with individuals who share the same passion as me for the world of luxury.
Reflecting on my time at HEC Paris, I am truly thankful for the valuable experiences and comprehension I have gained. What initially began as a quest for knowledge has blossomed into a journey of personal and professional growth. Guided by HEC Paris' commitment to excellence and innovation, I have been equipped with a wealth of knowledge and a drive for excellence. I eagerly look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead, such as collaborating with Cartier and pursuing ‘The Influential Luxury Certificate’ with Kering. Embracing HEC Paris' ethos, I'm ready to push boundaries, unleash creativity, and strive for enduring excellence in all my future endeavours.
Read more about the HEC Paris professor-paced, interactive online certificate programs here.
Read more about our Luxury Management Summer Program here.