Module 1: Introduction to Your Dual Degree
Why Knowing Your Dual Degree Matters
With four years ahead, it’s essential to grasp the program’s essence before diving in. Not only will this knowledge enrich your interactions, but it will also earn you points in both direct and subtle ways. Let’s dive in!
Unpacking the Meaning of Dual Degree Familiarity
In this section, we’ll focus on what it really means to understand your dual degree. It’s more than just knowing the names of the schools or the majors you’re applying for – it means actively learning about both universities and how they connect to your goals. This includes researching their core values, keeping up with recent news or changes at each school, and getting familiar with the specific majors or programs you’re interested in.
For example, you might picture yourself attending public lectures given by a specific professor whose work you find captivating, or joining a student club related to your interests – whether that’s a business society, a cultural group, a sports team, or anything else – or reading about the work of professors whose classes you want to take. These experiences help you go beyond just reading a website; they show that you’ve explored how each school fits your academic and personal goals. When you do this, you’re not just gathering information – you’re building a meaningful connection with both schools that will strengthen your application and get you started in your degree beforehand.
So, whether it’s the values that drive the institutions, the recent news that reflects their dynamism, or the very fabric of the majors and courses that beckon you, remember that understanding your dual degree is an invitation to fully embrace every facet that aligns with your aspirations.
Gaining from a Broad Understanding
Now, let’s delve into why having a comprehensive grasp of your dual degree is not only advantageous but essential. There are multiple compelling reasons for this, and they extend beyond just impressing the selection panel. Let’s explore these motives in detail.
For Your Own Advantage
To begin with, understanding your dual degree inside and out is a crucial step for your own clarity and confidence. Think about it – you’re embarking on a four-year journey that blends two different schools, systems, and ways of thinking. Whether you’re drawn to it because it’s interdisciplinary, prestigious, or just seems like the right fit, it’s not enough to have a vague idea of what you’re signing up for. This is a major investment of your time and energy, so taking the time to explore the details – what you’ll study, how the programs connect, what the student experience is like – is something you owe to yourself.
Also, digging deeper can lead to insights you might not expect. As you learn more about each school and reflect on how you fit within them, you’ll start to see clear links between your interests, goals, and the opportunities available. Maybe a research project at one school ties directly into a course at the other, or maybe a student initiative aligns with your long-term plans. These kinds of connections make your application stronger – they show your motivation isn’t just based on prestige, but on a well-thought-out, personal vision. This depth makes your story more compelling and helps your materials stand out.
Impressing the Selection Panel
Moving beyond personal advantage, your thorough understanding of the dual degree also greatly impresses the selection panel. It’s one thing to know your destination; it’s another to exhibit a mature comprehension of it. Imagine the recognition you’ll earn when you can discuss your exploration of the school, your informed comparisons of options, and your meaningful interactions with people associated with both institutions.
This showcases a mindset reflective of someone who’s not merely attracted to the program because it looks good on paper. It hints at your readiness to take on the academic and personal challenges ahead.
Crafting Authentic Arguments
Let’s talk about how all this preparation actually helps when it comes time to prepare your application. A common question you’ll face is: Why are you applying to this dual degree? Many candidates struggle with this seemingly straightforward question, giving vague answers such as ‘I wish to live in France and in the US’. While technically true, this kind of mainstream answer doesn’t make you stand out. Imagine being asked about your interest in the dual degree in your application materials. However, if you’ve done your due diligence, explored the courses, engaged with professors, and thought about how the two schools fit together, your response transcends the obvious.
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Rather than a generic answer, you might respond with something like: I’m drawn to the Politics and Government track at Sciences Po, especially the ‘Institutions and Political Life’ course, because I want to understand how European democracies work. I plan to build on that by taking ‘Comparative Politics of Developing Countries’ at UCL. Together, these courses will help me develop a global approach to policy-making. I’m also excited to join the Sciences Po Debate Club and UCL Government and Politics Society, where I can grow my communication and leadership skills.
When you know the programs well, you’re not just listing names – you’re connecting them to your goals. That makes your application more focused, and more genuine.
✏️ NB :
This kind of preparation isn’t about memorizing facts or writing a perfect script. It’s about being familiar enough with the dual degree that you can talk about it confidently and meaningfully. That depth of knowledge helps you write an application that feels real, sharp, and full of purpose.
Module 2: Exploring the Dual Degree Universe
In this module, we’ll delve into the exciting task of thoroughly understanding the broader landscape of your dual degree. By immersing yourself in the core elements of both institutions, you’ll be equipped for a more meaningful and coherent journey.
Now, before we dive headfirst into the exploration, let’s address a pivotal point. Even if Sciences Po and your partner university might feel like separate worlds at times, your success in the program (and in your application) depends on understanding how they complement each other.
One key part of this experience is developing a ‘dual identity’. That means fully engaging with both schools. While many of our examples will focus on Sciences Po (since it’s part of every dual degree), the same approach applies to your partner university. Just as you delve into the intricacies of Sciences Po, you must also explore the landscape of your partner university to attain a well-rounded understanding.
This isn’t just about checking boxes (student’s association done, professor done, sports done, political party done – you get the idea). It’s about building a real foundation that will help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your next four years. So, as we move forward, think of this as more than just research – it’s a way to prepare yourself for everything that comes with the dual degree: the challenges, the opportunities, and the unique experience of studying in two different academic worlds.
Mastering the Basics
Before we embark on our journey of comprehensive exploration, let’s lay the foundation by mastering the basics. Think of this phase as familiarizing yourself with the ABCs of your dual degree – a preliminary step that will provide context and set the stage for deeper understanding.
Embracing Foundational Knowledge
For instance, consider knowing the founder of Sciences Po, Emile Boutmy. While you aren’t expected to recite every historical detail, being acquainted with his name holds significance. Notably, the main auditorium at Sciences Po bears his name—often referred to as “Boutmy” (“I have class in Boutmy this morning”). This connection to the past is part of the fabric that shapes the Sciences Po experience. Similarly, the historic site of Sciences Po, rue Saint-Guillaume, carries symbolic value, reflecting the institution’s heritage.
Don’t go reading and memorizing every detail you will find on Wikipedia regarding Sciences Po, but browsing through its general history will help you get a clearer understanding of its spirit.
Connecting with the Present
Transitioning from history to the contemporary landscape, understanding the current director of Sciences Po is essential. Beyond that, being aware of a few prestigious alumni, such as Richard Descoings, further enhances your grasp of the institution’s legacy. These individuals contribute to the tapestry of the institution, leaving their mark on its evolution.
Delving Deeper
While mastering the basics is crucial, you’re encouraged to delve deeper for a more nuanced perspective. For instance, consider learning about “Minicrit,” the captivating sports and art contest that unfolds at the end of each academic year across all Sciences Po campuses. While you may save these intricate details for a future oral presentation, they offer additional layers of insight that contribute to your comprehensive understanding.
This goes without saying, but make sure you always delve as deep into your partner university as well.
Capturing the Essence
This section delves into the overarching spirit of your dual degree. Understand the overarching themes, values, and directions that guide both universities. Focus on key trends, global perspectives, and research areas that define the institutions’ identities.
Grasping the Institutional DNA
For example, take a moment to ponder the distribution of graduates between the public and private sectors. While this might appear quite specific, it holds a mirror to your dual degree’s ethos. Often portrayed as a hub for public service and societal betterment, the reality is that 80% of Sciences Po graduates find their place in the private sector. This juxtaposition offers a glimpse into the institution’s multidimensional nature—where public and private intersect to shape a diverse career landscape.
Beyond Numbers: Capturing Trends
On the flip side, don’t feel compelled to memorize that Sciences Po hosts students from 167 different nationalities. Instead, grasp the broader implications of such an international dimension. Whether the count stands at 167 or 126, the overarching theme remains—the institutions foster an environment where diverse perspectives converge. Embrace this global tapestry that enriches the learning experience.
✏️ NB :
Don’t forget to try and grasp the specifics of the campus you’re applying to. While the bachelor at the Paris campus offers classes mostly in French, and is thus populated by a vast majority of French students, English-speaking campuses (or German, etc.) have a better variety of population. This is an interesting point to mention or keep in mind, more specific than praising Sciences Po’s multicultural ethos.
Unveiling Research Landscapes
Delving deeper, explore the various research labs associated with both universities. These hubs of innovation shed light on the current major themes and pivotal researchers shaping the institutions. Additionally, journey into the world of publications – Sciences Po houses its own publishing house known as Les presses de Sciences Po. Even if you’re just exploring areas of mild interest, these publications unveil the intellectual vibrancy that permeates the institutions.
Remember, capturing the essence involves more than just facts and figures—it’s about understanding the spirit, the vibrancy, and the evolving narrative that defines your dual degree experience.
Embracing Core Values
This section delves into the heart of your dual degree institutions – their core values and guiding principles. Let’s explore beyond surface-level definitions and tap into the essence that underpins the institutions’ identities, and consider how they align with your own beliefs.
Navigating Beyond Surface Terms
Take heed when dealing with the term “values.” It can easily become grandiloquent, leading to generic notions like “openness” and “curiosity,” which might lack substantial weight. Our pursuit is to delve into the “spirit” of both schools – a profound understanding of the major pillars that define them. For instance, Sciences Po’s commitment to equal opportunities has stood strong for two decades. Instead of a mere mention of “open-mindedness,” aim to dive deeper into these values.
Unveiling Values Through Example
Consider Sciences Po’s core value of equal opportunities. To grasp this value, it’s not sufficient to simply state it; you should comprehend its implications, its historical context, and how it manifests in the daily life of the institution. For instance, the Equal Opportunity Program (EOP) speaks volumes about the institution’s dedication to breaking down barriers. Sharing insights into this value illuminates your awareness of the institution’s ethos and your ability to grasp its core principles.
Beyond the Surface: Tempering Perspectives
At Sciences Po, values like temperance, balance, and synthesis aren’t just theoretical ideals – they shape how students learn to navigate real-world debates. For instance, in a classroom discussion on immigration policy, one student might argue for open borders based on humanitarian principles, while another emphasizes the economic strain on public services. Rather than dismiss opposing views, students are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, identify common ground, and refine their own arguments. This culture promotes not only the expression of personal convictions but also a genuine effort to understand where others are coming from. It reflects the institution’s commitment to intellectual diversity, where disagreement isn’t seen as conflict but as a path to deeper insight and more nuanced perspectives.
Embracing Critical Perspectives
While delving into values, don’t shy away from adopting a critical lens. For example, recognize that top-tier institutions can serve as conduits for perpetuating social inequalities, and that while projects such as the ‘Equal Opportunities’ is a good step towards better equality, the discourse on meritocracy doesn’t always match reality. Highlighting this aspect displays your ability to think critically and envision change. However, ensure your perspective is well-informed and accompanied by a proactive approach to contribute positively to the institution’s evolution.
As you delve into the core values, remember that it’s not about showcasing the values as buzzwords, but rather understanding how they permeate every facet of your dual degree – and how they will allow you to grow intellectually, as well as how you will be able to actively contribute to them. Embrace these values as guiding lights on your journey, helping you navigate challenges and contribute authentically to the institutions’ legacy.
Staying Current with News
Stay attuned to the latest developments at both institutions. Subscribe to their feeds, explore their websites, and engage with their recent news. This knowledge enriches your understanding and bolsters your application’s depth.
For instance, imagine if you were aware that Sciences Po recently launched a groundbreaking interdisciplinary research center dedicated to addressing climate change challenges. This initiative showcases the institution’s commitment to addressing global issues through innovative research and collaboration across disciplines. By staying updated on such developments, you not only demonstrate your genuine interest but also gain insights that can set you apart during the admission phase.
Finding Synergy
Uncovering the bridge between the two institutions involves identifying their shared attributes, recognizing their distinctions, and understanding how their strengths synergize to enrich your educational journey.
For instance, consider the scenario where you explore the alignment between Sciences Po and Berkeley. Both institutions share a fundamental commitment to fostering inclusivity among diverse student populations, albeit with nuanced approaches. Sciences Po has championed socio-economic diversity for two decades through its Equal Opportunity Programme, underscoring its dedication to leveling the playing field for students from all backgrounds. On the other hand, Berkeley emphasizes the integration and support of marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and students with disabilities, thereby creating an inclusive environment that thrives on embracing differences.
This kind of reflection isn’t just academic – it shows you’re able to thrive in diverse environments, drawing on different strengths to grow both personally and professionally. It also means you’re better equipped to contribute in meaningful ways, whether that’s in group projects, policy analysis, or cross-cultural collaborations.
Exercise 1: General Knowledge, Values, News
Begin by immersing yourself in the essentials. Gather comprehensive information about the dual degree program from various sources – visit the dedicated dual degree website, explore the “About Us” section, and consult references such as Wikipedia and relevant articles (Note: Wikipedia often states its sources at the bottom of an article).
As a crucial step, regularly stay attuned to the latest developments by monitoring the news pages on both Sciences Po’s and the partner university’s websites. This practice provides valuable insights into the dynamic landscape of your educational institutions. Extend your engagement by following their official Facebook and Twitter pages, enabling you to receive timely updates on significant announcements, academic events, and thought-provoking discussions.
While gathering information, remain mindful of the values that underpin both universities. Capture the essence of their missions, aspirations, and guiding principles. Recognize the ways in which these values manifest in their educational philosophies and community initiatives.
Finding Synergy:
As you gather knowledge about your dual degree institutions, take a moment to uncover the synergies that exist between them. Seek commonalities that reflect shared visions or approaches, as well as distinctions that provide unique facets to your educational journey. This exercise in identifying synergy between Sciences Po and the partner university will help you articulate a compelling narrative about how your experience in both institutions will harmoniously contribute to your personal and academic growth.
Remember that note-taking during your research is a personal choice, influenced by your preferred learning style and retention methods. The goal is not solely to accumulate information, but to immerse yourself in the ethos of your dual degree, cultivating a deep understanding that will be instrumental in your application process.
Module 3: Navigating Your Academic Path
This module equips you with tools to understand the curriculum of your dual degree. From foundational core courses to specialized electives, this understanding will empower you to navigate your academic journey with precision and foresight.
Decoding the Curriculum Structure
As you embark on your dual degree adventure, it’s essential to chart a course through the academic landscape of both institutions. Begin by exploring the core courses that lay the groundwork for your education. While we don’t expect you to memorize the minutiae of every session, we encourage you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the general themes and directions these courses encompass.
Additionally, consider the potential majors that align with your interests and aspirations. By exploring the array of courses, electives, and any additional projects – such as the civic learning program – you will uncover the diverse facets that shape your educational journey. The goal is not to absorb every detail, but to grasp the overall curriculum framework that will guide your academic progression.
Exploring Your Path Options
Start by looking into the academic paths available to you – majors, courses and electives that genuinely match your interests. You don’t need to have everything mapped out, but having a clear direction shows that you’ve thought seriously about what you want to study and why it matters.
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If you’re passionate about environmental policy and sustainable development, you might explore how Sciences Po’s interdisciplinary approach can give you a strong foundation in international relations, public policy, and environmental governance. At the same time, UC Berkeley’s top-tier economics department and focus on innovation could help you dive into the financial and technological sides of sustainability – like studying carbon markets, green startups, or environmental impact assessments.
Beyond Academics
As you venture further into the landscape of your dual degree journey, remember that your exploration should encompass more than just the academic realm. Embrace the various facets that contribute to your holistic growth and enrich your application in diverse ways.
Embracing a Multifaceted Experience
Your dual degree experience goes beyond attending classes and lectures. It includes an array of elements such as internships, the languages you’ll choose to master, the professors who inspire you, conferences that pique your interest, and the vibrant tapestry of student organizations and activities. These components collectively shape your journey and contribute to your personal and intellectual development.
It’s not about having every detail meticulously planned out or making definitive decisions at this stage. Instead, it’s about embracing the spirit of exploration. Let’s take a real-life scenario to illustrate this point: During an interview for the Menton campus, a candidate was posed with a question: “Between Turkish and Arabic, which would you choose?”. The response was ‘I’m not sure yet’. While it’s okay not to have a firm answer, the way uncertainty is expressed matters. A vague or unprepared response can come across as a lack of direction. Instead, a stronger answer might be: “I’m leaning towards Turkish because I’m interested in the region’s politics and would like to understand it more deeply, but I’m also considering Arabic because of its broader relevance across the Middle East.” This kind of response shows thoughtfulness and initiative – even if the decision isn’t final.
You can even picture a more compelling, decided response: “I’m inclined to choose Arabic. The cultural richness and historical depth carried by the language have always fascinated me. The way Arabic serves as a vehicle for intricate storytelling and poetry, reflecting the essence of Middle Eastern cultures, is truly captivating. For example, the works of renowned Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, composed in Arabic, are not only linguistically striking but also deeply reflective of the region’s complex narratives. In the first semester, I envision immersing myself in the study of Arabic to grasp the nuances of this culture-conveying language. Subsequently, I aim to explore Turkish, drawn by its unique role in the region’s cultural mosaic and its potential to provide a distinct perspective on cultural interconnections.”
🌟 Tip:
In essence, your exploration should be intentional and proactive.
Exercise 2: Your Curriculum, Professors, Courses
- Begin by immersing yourself in the academic landscape at Sciences Po. Take the time to review the syllabi for the initial two years of your dual degree. Identify the courses that intrigue you and capture a sense of the overall course structure. For example, navigate to the relevant campus page, such as Le Havre, on the Sciences Po website. There, you can access detailed course outlines, particularly for the first semester. Engage in exploration, take notes, and equip yourself with comprehensive information.
✏️ NB :
There are many testimonies online of students decrypting their experience on different campuses. Comments from your peers about courses and student life, coupled with videos showing the campus around are great to get an understanding that exceeds the sole syllabus of Sciences Po’s website.
- Extend this approach to the partner university as well. Reflect on potential majors that resonate with you and prompt you to ask: Why does this particular major appeal to me?
- Immerse yourself in the profiles of the professors associated with your dual degree. Investigate whether any renowned experts align with your academic interests. Are there educators whose expertise you aspire to tap into and learn from?
- Take a panoramic view of your potential journey throughout the four years. Beyond classroom experiences, consider the scope of internships, the civic learning program, minors, and language options.
This exercise helps you move beyond passive research by encouraging you to take an active role in shaping your academic experience. It allows you to better understand the structure of the curriculum, the professors and professionals who will be guiding your studies, and the specific opportunities – such as internships, research projects, or regional specializations – that the program offers. By taking initiative now, you show that you’re ready to engage fully with what it demands and offers.
Module 4: Aligning with Your Vision
This module is all about aligning your knowledge with your individual interests and aspirations. Linking your dual degree to your unique journey adds depth and authenticity to your application.
Nurturing Your Unique Thread
Identify components of your dual degree that directly relate to your interests or journey. For instance, let’s say you have a keen interest in understanding the complexities of the Arab world, including themes related to terrorism and security. Delve into the array of courses, tracks, and research opportunities that focus on Middle Eastern studies at both Sciences Po and your partner university. If you discover that a distinguished scholar like Gilles Kepel, renowned for his expertise in the Arab world, is scheduled to give a lecture or workshop related to these subjects, make sure to take note. This level of engagement not only showcases your proactive approach to your academic journey but also underscores your alignment with the specialized aspects of your dual degree.
Exercise 3: Explore aspects of the dual degree that are relevant to you
Try to cover some ground on the topics that truly captivate you in the dual degree (your “common thread”). For instance, if you’re intrigued by environmental themes and sustainability, delve into Sciences Po Environnement and any environmental organization at your partner university. There are undoubtedly projects they’ve undertaken that you can learn about. Look into conferences on the subject from the year before your admission. See who the key figures discussing the subject were. They might be some alumni of one of your two universities. In short, explore, but focus on topics that directly resonate with you.
Engaging with First-Hand Experiences
Discover the potency of firsthand insights as you delve into making your dual degree experience more tangible and personal. Throughout your exploration journey, which has thus far largely been fueled by online research – drawing from dual degree websites, articles, and digital discussions – it’s important to acknowledge that this wealth of information, while informative, often lacks a personal touch. To bridge this gap, it’s time to engage with the firsthand sources that bring depth to your understanding.
As you enter the final phase of your exploration, consider the invaluable impact of physical presence. If circumstances permit, seize the opportunity to visit either of the campuses. Immersing yourself in the environment can be transformative, as many individuals have attested to feeling an authentic connection during open house events. These visits provide firsthand encounters that can solidify your understanding of the dual degree’s ethos and ambiance. You will even perhaps be able to talk firsthand with professors, scholars and students on campus who will give you a personal introduction to the university’s spirit.
However, if geographical constraints prevent you from being on-site, there are still ways to imbue your exploration with personal interactions. Reach out to current students and alumni who have walked the dual degree path before you. Forge connections that allow you to gain insights beyond what mere research can provide. If a particular theme or project resonates with you, initiate conversations that explore their experiences in depth.
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Here’s a template for reaching out to current students:
“Hello [Student’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], an applicant to the [Dual Degree Program] at [Sciences Po and Partner University]. I’m genuinely intrigued by the [specific project or aspect] you’ve been involved in. It aligns seamlessly with my interests and aspirations. I’m eager to learn more about your journey and insights. Would you be open to a brief chat or an exchange of messages?”
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And here’s a template for engaging with alumni:
“Hi [Alumni’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], a prospective student of the [Dual Degree Program] at [Sciences Po and Partner University]. Your career trajectory and achievements truly inspire me. Your journey closely aligns with my aspirations, and I’d greatly appreciate the chance to learn more about your experiences, choices, and the dual degree’s impact. Would you be willing to spare a few moments for a conversation or an email exchange?”
If you’re acquainted with any alumni, don’t hesitate to connect with them. If not, explore avenues such as Facebook groups, LinkedIn, or the dual degree Alumni Association to identify and engage with alumni who can offer valuable insights.
At this stage, you can also proactively reach out to your dual degree coordinator, who can facilitate connections with current students and alumni. They can also assist in clarifying any specific points that you may not have fully grasped during your research. Initiating contact with your dual degree coordinator not only helps you gain access to valuable insights but also showcases your early interest in the program. Dual degree coordinators often play a role in assessing applications, so this interaction can make a positive impression from the outset.
While some individuals might decline, persistence can yield fruitful interactions. Even a single affirmative response can enrich your arsenal of personal anecdotes. In the face of the admissions panel, you can confidently share, “I engaged in discussions with XYZ, who illuminated the broader dimensions of diplomacy beyond conventional professional contexts.”
By immersing yourself in firsthand experiences, you bring life to your dual degree journey. Remember, it’s not just about demonstrating enthusiasm; it’s about substantiating it through meaningful interactions and making your dual degree aspirations a vivid and palpable reality.
To prepare for these conversations, develop a set of thoughtful questions that address your areas of curiosity. Leverage social media platforms to your advantage; join relevant dual degree Facebook groups, utilize LinkedIn to identify alumni, and consider tools like Hunter to locate contact information associated with specific organizations.
Module 5: Striking the Right Balance
Balancing Knowledge
Achieve the perfect equilibrium between deep knowledge and personal perspective, tailored to your individual interests. Understand what to delve into deeply and where broader understanding suffices, creating a comprehensive grasp that aligns intimately with your curiosity and aspirations.
Demonstrating Your Passion
Embrace our motto: “There’s no love, only proof of love.” Showcase your motivation through active steps – research, conversations, and engagement. Tangible commitment enhances your application’s impact.
Balancing Essential Knowledge and First-Hand Anecdotes
Strive for a harmonious blend of crucial information and captivating narratives. While essential details are readily available on official sources like websites, tap into the wealth of insights shared by students, alumni, and coordinators. Engage in conversations, inquire about personal experiences, and gather anecdotes to infuse your understanding with vivid authenticity.
Conclusion: Your Dual Degree Voyage
By completing this research, you’ve built a solid starting point for you dual degree application and interview. You’ve taken the time to understand how both institutions work – their academic structure, core values, and what sets them apart -, making you better equipped to explain why you’re a strong fit. Think of this research as a practical tool – it won’t just help you stand out : it will help you stay focused and intentional throughout the process.