Ania-Lara Ciugudean
Online Program Participant
An immersive program which goes far beyond surface-level insights. Despite being delivered online, it feels anything but distant thanks to the professors’ commitment to excellence and their interactive, highly engaging pedagogy.
As I enter the final year of my Bachelor’s in Business Administration, specializing in Marketing and Sales, I’ve been eager to enrich my academic foundation with a more nuanced, industry-specific lens. That motivation led me to apply for the online certificate program “Unveiling the World of Luxury Management” offered by HEC Paris. Undertaking this intensive online course while simultaneously navigating the test period for my exchange semester in Barcelona was undoubtedly one of the most demanding yet rewarding decisions I’ve made.
It was an immersive program which went far beyond surface-level insights. The academic rigor challenged me to engage critically with the very essence of the luxury prism, exploring pillars such as brand heritage, the desires of contemporary consumers, and the art of crafting meaningful and emotionally resonant experiences. In tandem, I was encouraged to adopt a forward-thinking approach and envision for instance how the world of luxury might be reimagined in 2040 in response to evolving consumer aspirations, sustainability imperatives, digital evolution, and the rising significance of cultural relevance.
I delved into the universe of iconic maisons such as Cartier, Bulgari, Rimowa, Versace, Prada, and Balmain, exploring their DNA to understand their strategic brand management, market dynamics, and how they design a splendid customer journey.
Orchestrated by Professors Anne Michaut and Frank Asenkat, the course was a masterclass in blending strategic rigor with creativity, which was an exceptional exercise in activating both hemispheres of the brain. From financial insights to emotional branding, the journey was intellectually holistic and deeply inspiring. Despite being delivered online, it felt anything but distant. Thanks to the professors’ commitment to excellence and their interactive, highly engaging pedagogy, the program felt as immersive as being physically on campus. Their dedication to fostering real-time dialogue, continuous feedback, and real-world case studies made this learning journey feel bespoke.
A standout highlight for me was the global cohort of participants I had the chance to collaborate with. Our diverse backgrounds brought rich cross-cultural perspectives to the table, reinforcing how the meaning of luxury can vary across markets, yet demonstrating the universal pinnacle goes far beyond a product’s functional value.
As I now prepare to embark on my upcoming internship at Balmain Hair Couture, I feel profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have taken part in such a thoughtfully curated program that provided a strong foundation in the luxury realm. Once again, a heartfelt thank you to the creators of the course, and HEC Paris for crafting an unforgettable learning experience.