Alisa Koluskina
Summer Student Story
I was particularly impressed by the lecturers' ability to break down complex, modern concepts - such as AI, DeFi, and crypto - into clear and accessible terms. This ability to simplify intricate topics is a hallmark of true expertise.
My journey to the HEC Paris FinTech Summer Program was a perfect blend of my two passions: finance and entrepreneurship. As a working professional in finance and a student in the MSc in Entrepreneurship at UCL, I was searching for a program that could expand my knowledge and provide a new perspective on the industry. The curriculum's focus on modern financial technologies immediately resonated with my academic and professional interests, and I knew it was the right fit.
The two weeks offered a highly enriching experience. I was particularly impressed by the lecturers' ability to break down complex, modern concepts - such as AI, DeFi, and crypto - into clear and accessible terms. This ability to simplify intricate topics is a hallmark of true expertise. The program was further enhanced by a series of incredibly engaging guest speakers, who provided valuable insights from diverse backgrounds, ranging from traditional banking at Raiffeisen Bank to dynamic crypto expertise from Coinbase. They were all highly knowledgeable and open to questions, which fostered an open discussion in the classroom.
Beyond theoretical knowledge, the program provided me with a range of new practical skills. From creating AI agents to mastering crypto tools, these skills are directly applicable to my current role as a financial analyst. As an aspiring entrepreneur, I found the flagship project particularly rewarding: the course was split into teams, and we were asked to create and pitch a fintech startup. My team created an AI-powered phone fraud detection software. The project was an invaluable collaborative experience, and I gained significant insights from my teammates, who brought diverse expertise from a variety of international backgrounds. I must also commend our module leader, Benjamin Gabay, for his commitment to ensuring each student's success and for his dedicated mentorship of our project ideas.
The campus experience was exceptional. The community was welcoming, and the valuable work-life balance allowed me to unwind each day with activities like volleyball or tennis. This experience significantly contributed to my personal development. I would strongly recommend this program to fellow professionals, as it provides a valuable opportunity for continued growth and learning.