Alexandra Pak

I wasn't studying alone in my room; I was debating brand heritage and customer experience with passionate peers from all over the world.

After graduating with my Master's in Marketing and Commercial Strategies two years ago, I began working at a large-scale international industrial company. However, my true passion lay elsewhere. I would spend hours after work reading, watching, or simply discussing fashion with friends (a cliché for someone living in Paris, but I plead guilty!). Last year, I realized I wasn't ready to settle for the “logical” continuation of my career. I wanted the creativity, inspiration, and freedom that come with passion. 

I chose the HEC Paris Online Certificate "Unveiling the World of Luxury Management" because I needed a bridge. I needed to pivot from my generalist background into the nuanced world of Luxury. I chose HEC because when you decide to chase a dream, you want to learn from the best. 

Since I was still working a full-time 9-5 job, I needed a program that was 100% online, making this certification the perfect match. The flexibility allowed me to secure my current role while building my future. I found myself eagerly looking forward to our Friday afternoon sessions with Anne and Frank. The tools for interaction: breakout rooms, forums, and discussions created a global dance floor. I wasn't studying alone in my room; I was debating brand heritage and customer experience with passionate peers from all over the world. 

The most challenging part was managing my time, but it was also the most rewarding. It forced me to be disciplined not out of obligation, but out of desire. The assignment topics were relevant and offered immense creative freedom. In fact, the hardest part of the "homework" for me was simply respecting the word limit. 

Along with a deeper understanding of the sector, I gained concrete frameworks on luxury strategy, brand equity, and the economics of scarcity. Beyond the hard skills, I relearned resilience and confidence. 

This program was my "exhale." It gave me the foundation and the courage to actively pursue a new path. To anyone who feels like they are just going through the motions of a successful but unfulfilling career: do not wait.

Find out more about this Online Certificate Program in Luxury Management