Learning to learn - Constance Laverdure’s journey through the double degree Data & Finance X-HEC
When Constance Laverdure arrived in France to begin the Master in Data and Finance program, she already had a strong academic foundation, thanks to a double major in mathematics and finance from McGill University in Canada. But what she would gain over the next two years would go far beyond numbers and models. For Constance, the experience was transformative - professionally, intellectually, and personally.
As she graduates this summer, Constance reflects on two fast-paced, demanding, and fulfilling years, spent between two of France’s most prestigious institutions: HEC Paris and École Polytechnique. Her story is one of growth, adaptation, and discovery.
Why HEC Paris, and why Data and Finance?
From the outset, Constance knew she was drawn to the quantitative side of finance. But she also recognized that succeeding in the fast-moving world of finance would require more than traditional knowledge. The Master in Data and Finance program, run jointly by HEC Paris and École Polytechnique, offered the perfect blend.
“I think it’s a very forward-looking program,” she explains. “I was looking to go into finance, but with a strong quantitative focus. This double degree really goes into depth on the technical side while also giving you the opportunity to follow the renowned Master in International Finance at HEC Paris”
Following a program at two different schools was a major attraction. “It’s definitely an advantage,” she says. “You not only benefit from the reputations of both institutions, but you also get to meet students from two very different academic cultures - engineers and business students. That contrast broadens your perspectives and makes the learning richer.”
A cohort, a curriculum, and a community
One of the things that surprised Constance most was how fast her understanding of the professional world evolved during the program. “You arrive with certain ideas - shaped by your Bachelor’s, which can be quite theoretical - and suddenly, you’re exposed to so many new people, disciplines, and ways of thinking. Your path starts to change.”
The program’s structure encourages this evolution. The first year at Polytechnique is academically rigorous, emphasizing mathematics, statistics, and computing. The second year at HEC Paris is more applied, with courses grounded in real-world finance.
“It’s extremely complementary,” she states. “At Polytechnique, it’s more theoretical and analytical. At HEC, you get more hands-on exposure. Even though I had studied finance before, I learned a lot of new things.”
Outside the classroom, the cohort itself became a key part of the learning experience. “We’re a small group, and over two years you become very close. Even though many of us are going off to different countries – such as London or Switzerland - those bonds will stay strong.”
The London Study Trip was another program highlight. “It was really useful to visit major banks and companies - to see the environments we’re applying to work in. It made it much easier to visualize myself working in these settings.”
Learning to adapt and to learn
When asked about the most important things she has learned during the program, Constance affirms: “Apart from the theoretical background, one key thing is learning how to learn. Everyone in the program comes from different backgrounds - some from computer science, others from economics or finance. So, at some points, we all had to deal with something completely new.”
“You learn how to adapt, and I think that’s essential. In the workplace, you never do exactly what you studied. Knowing how to learn and adapt is one of the most valuable things I’m taking from the program.”
From the classroom to the trading floor
Constance is currently doing an internship in exotic derivatives trading at Morgan Stanley in Paris - a role she wouldn’t have envisioned before joining the program. But thanks to the depth of her coursework and conversations with industry-experienced professors, she discovered a field that now excites her on a daily basis.
“In derivatives trading, you need to code, understand complex pricing models, and stay on top of constantly changing markets. Everything we studied - both the theory and the practical tools - helped prepare me for this sort of role.”
What draws her to banking and financial markets is the energy and the unpredictability. “Every day is different. It’s dynamic, intense, sometimes stressful, but incredibly rewarding. Especially when you’re young and have the energy - it’s a great place to be.”
Looking ahead, she hopes to continue working on the trading floors. “It’s hard to predict. My ideas have changed so much in the last two years. But now, I love what I’m doing.”
The gender question - challenges and opportunities
Finance and data remain male-dominated fields - and Constance is candid about the realities of navigating them as a woman.
“It can be intimidating at times, especially when you’re the only woman in a room. We don’t always react the same way as men, and that can make you feel isolated.” But she also sees this moment as an opportunity. “Firms are increasingly recognizing the value of diversity. There are now events and networks aimed specifically at women. It’s encouraging.”
Having role models is also essential, she adds. “Seeing women who’ve made it through the challenges is inspiring. It makes you believe that you can too. I hope that one day I can be a source of inspiration for other women.”
A fast but fulfilling chapter
As she graduates, Constance is still processing what these two years have meant. The program was demanding, and the courses were challenging, but she has gained an incredible variety of skills and has come out of the experience transformed.
“It’s gone by so fast. I can’t believe it’s over. But it’s been incredibly fulfilling. I’ve learned more about myself than I had in a long time. It has been a pivotal moment in my life - and this program has given me the foundations to step into the next chapter with confidence.”
Find out more about the Double Degree Data & Finance X-HEC