Name: Yann Bachelot

University from which you've graduated:

McGill University

Degree subject:

B.A. Political Science with Minors in Economics and Chinese

Which societies/sports clubs were you a member of:

• Montreal World Health Organization Simulation
• McGill Model United Nations Assembly
• Secondary Schools' United Nations Symposium
• International Relations Students' Association of McGill
• McGill Political Science Students' Association
• McGill University Masters Swim Club
• McGill Boxing Club

Home town:

Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France

Host institution:

Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)

Why did you apply to the graduate trainee scheme?

I've been taking part in and coordinating fundraising initiatives for various charities, conferences and other projects since high school, and toward the end of my Bachelor's degree decided that it was something I might be interested in pursuing as a career and that I should try doing it in a professional environment. The graduate trainee scheme is perfect for this since it's allowing me to really dive into the field for a year and learn all about the different components of a development office to see if it is indeed an area that I want to work in long-term.

What are you hoping to achieve from your year on the scheme?

Two objectives, firstly learn as much as I can about how the different parts of a development office work together throughout the fundraising process, and of course gain as much experience as possible, and secondly contribute to the top of my ability to raising money for the game-changing education, research and innovation that takes place at EPFL.

What are your career ambitions?

Two months into the scheme I'm really enjoying it, especially principal gifts and major gifts, so if I pursue a career in development I'd probably want to work in these areas, but I'm definitely keeping all my options open so who knows where I'll be in 5, 10, 20 years, but that's the exciting part!

What are you hobbies/activities outside of study/work?

Endurance sports (mainly running and cycling at the moment), strength training, skiing and snowboarding. I also love learning languages and am currently working hard on my Mandarin.

Proudest moment?

Running my first Marathon

Anything else?

If you're reading this and you're interested in working in development and wondering if you should apply to the scheme, do it. In two months I've already learned so much from the team that I'm working with, plus the scheme seems to be very highly regarded in the sector and allows you to join a network of people who really want to help you succeed. If you have any questions or want any advice on it shoot me a message on LinkedIn and I'll be happy to help you out!

LinkedIn profile: linkedin.com/in/yannbachelot