Academic stay - Heleen Eggerickx, Belgian student

Hi, I am Heleen from Belgium, and I love to play volleyball, to go for a hike and to grab a drink with friends. Last year I had the opportunity to spend my first semester on exchange at Grenoble INP - Ense³. After this amazing experience I decided to come back and I’m currently pursuing the International Master's program in Smart Grids and Buildings at Grenoble INP - Ense³.

I had a great time during my exchange, the decision to apply for the international master was easy made. One of the main reasons I loved it here was the stunning natural environment. Living next to the mountains is incredible! During the summer and fall, I enjoy the beautiful scenery during hikes with my friends while during the winter I love to go skiing. Another big factor was the quality of education at the school. The hands-on work, practical labs, and real-world approach prepare you thoroughly for professional life. Grenoble is also full of energetic, active people. Whether you’re in the mood to run up the Bastille or have a relaxed drink with friends, there’s always something to do.

Being a (exchange) student at Grenoble INP - Ense³ is something I would definitely recommend. The school has a great balance between academic work and practical application. Every course includes group projects and lab work, and the university even offers sports classes, including skiing and snowboarding. Another strong point of the school is the social life between the French students, there are several “lists” (student groups) responsible for organizing the student life in the school. From major events, like a tournament between Grenoble INP schools and the elections of the next lists, to smaller events like parties and sports activities. There is also a group of students who organize things only for the international people, like a welcoming week. So, there are a lot of opportunities to do things and to get to know people.

Some of my best memories I made in Grenoble are the weekends I did with friends, the hiking trips in Chamonix are for sure my favorites. Besides this I had the chance to join the Ense³ and Grenoble INP volleyball team. This was a great way to get to know some French students as well. But it was also the little moments that truly made my experience unforgettable, the cozy raclette nights, hiking to the Bastille for breathtaking views over Grenoble, and sunny mountain days.