The 20s Project

By Jacqueline & Christina

Welcome to "The 20s Project" where we, HEC Paris students, explore the WHYs behind people's choices. Join us as we invite amazing guests worldwide to share their unique stories on decision-making—whet... more

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FAQs about The 20s Project:

How many episodes does The 20s Project have?

The podcast currently has 20 episodes available.

The 20s Project episodes:

July 03, 2024 The 20s stories #9 - Equal opportunities & life projects

“Everyone is born equally capable but lacks equal opportunity.” - Pierre Omidyar

In this episode of The 20s Project, hosts Jacqueline and Christina are joined by Yanis Maazi, a student from HEC Paris pursuing a dual degree with Sciences-Po, to explore the intricate concept of equal opportunity. Join us as we delve into Yanis' inspiring journey and his involvement with various associations, uncovering how these experiences have shaped his views on creating a fairer, more sustainable world. We explore the subtle yet profound influence of educational opportunities and societal roles in shaping career paths and personal decisions.

Key topics:

· How do associations influence our society, and what role do they play in shaping our communal values?

· In what ways can we, as students, professionals, and individuals, drive the creation of a sustainable and equitable world?

· What are some effective strategies to combat the global issue of unequal access to opportunities?

· Why is it crucial to ensure equal opportunities and access to education for all, and how does this empower individuals to navigate their own paths?

· How do higher education institutions aid those from less favorable backgrounds in reaching their dreams?

· Does centering one's career around the concept of giving back lead to a greater sense of fulfillment?

By weaving together themes of global equity, the transformative potential of higher education, and the personal fulfillment that comes from altruism, we uncover the interconnectedness of our individual actions and the broader societal impact. This episode invites all of us to reflect on how we can all contribute to a more equitable future.

"Until we get equality in education, we won’t have an equal society". – Sonia Sotomayor

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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36min
May 20, 2024Be my mentor #6 - Admissions and opportunities at HEC Paris
“Ambitions reveal direction.” – Mace Windu

In this episode of The 20s Project, we dive deep into the intricacies of higher education admissions with two esteemed guests from HEC Paris: Massimo Spagnuolo, the Recruitment Director, and Michael Scott, the Admissions Director. Massimo and Michael share insights into the measures taken by HEC Paris to guarantee equity and impartiality throughout the admissions process. But fairness isn't just about procedures—it's also about addressing our inherent biases. Our guests provide invaluable strategies on how to reduce biases during the application evaluation process, ensuring that every applicant receives a fair assessment.

Key topics:
How can we ensure every application receives fair treatment?
What steps can we take to minimize our personal biases throughout the application process?
Must students and applicants already have a clear life goal? Do they need everything mapped out?
How can candidates compensate for disadvantages in certain areas of their application?
How do applicants determine which path aligns best with their goals?
What actions are being implemented to enhance diversity and promote equal opportunity?

Choosing the right path can be daunting. Massimo and Michael provide invaluable insights into how applicants can determine which educational journey aligns best with their aspirations and goals. Lastly, the discussion extends to promoting diversity and equal opportunity. From proactive initiatives to inclusive policies, learn about the actionable steps taken by HEC Paris to foster a more diverse and equitable student body. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we navigate the complex terrain of higher education admissions, striving for fairness, diversity, and excellence.

"We need people who dream impossible things, who maybe fail, sometimes succeed, but in any case, who have that ambition". –Emmanuel Macron

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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1h
April 30, 2024The 20s stories #8 - Switching your career trajectory
To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” — Winston Churchill

In this episode, Jacqueline and Christina welcome Alexandra Senina, a student from HEC Paris, to share her academic journey. Alexandra will delve into her transition from studying history to focusing on management and finance, exploring its impact on her career trajectory. The conversation will touch upon navigating uncertainty, embracing change, leveraging individual experiences, and the recognition that there are multiple paths to success. Tune in for an engaging discussion!

Key topics:
What could lead someone to a shift in academic focus?
How can one deal with uncertainty or breakthroughs that stand out during this transition?
What are the primary benefits of possessing a diverse background and having undergone changes in academic focus?
How might one approach the discussion of this shift in academic focus with recruiters during internship or job applications?
How does one maintain motivation and drive over the long term, especially during times of adversity or when facing difficult challenges?

They also discuss how sport contributes to personal and professional development, and the resilience we can develop with regular practices. They discuss how engagement in sports fosters not only physical health but also essential life skills like discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.

”The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.” — Alan Watts

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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30min
March 25, 2024Be my mentor #5 - Breaking barriers for women in the workplace
“Gender equality not only liberates women but also men from prescribed gender stereotypes.” - Emma Watson

In this compelling episode, join hosts Jacqueline and Christina as they welcome Julie Allison, COO at Bloomflow and an esteemed HEC Paris EMBA Alumni. Together, they delve into the multifaceted landscape of women in the workplace. Julie brings her wealth of experience and expertise to illuminate the challenges women often face, from navigating the intricacies of motherhood alongside career pursuits to confronting sexism head-on. Drawing from her own journey, Julie shares invaluable insights on finding the balance between ambition and family life, challenging the notion of a "right time" to pursue both personal and professional aspirations. The conversation doesn't shy away from addressing the pervasive issue of sexism in the workplace, offering practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and fostering a more inclusive environment.

Key topics:
What problems do women often deal with at work?
Can being a mom work well with having a career?
When's the best time for ambitious people to have kids?
How can we handle unfair treatment of women at work?
What is the benevolence bias, and how does it affect women?
Do setting quotas help make workplaces better?

Moreover, the episode ventures into the contentious topic of quotas in the workplace, exploring their potential benefits and limitations in fostering diversity and inclusion. Through candid dialogue and insightful perspectives, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering women in all facets of their professional journeys. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to challenge perspectives and inspire change.

“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made. It shouldn’t be that women are the exception.” - Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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37min
March 11, 2024Be my mentor #4 - Unlock the multipotentialite profile
“Realize that everything connects to everything else.” - Leonardo da Vinci

In this episode, Jacqueline and Christina are joined by Julie Allison, an HEC Paris EMBA Alumni and the current COO at Bloomflow, to explore the concept of being a multipotentialite. Julie will share her personal journey and insights as a professional with diverse interests, discussing how to navigate the intricacies of such a profile in professional settings. They will discuss the benefits and challenges of having a multipotentialite profile, including strategies for effective communication and embracing and maximizing diverse talents. Get ready for a captivating conversation!

Key topics:
What does it mean to be a multipotentialite?
What are some of the benefits of having diverse interests and talents?
How can someone fully embrace their wide range of interests without feeling overwhelmed or scattered?
What strategies can individuals use to accept and integrate their various passions effectively?
How can we effectively communicate our diverse skill set and interests on a resume or during job interviews ?

They delve into effective communication strategies for showcasing one’s diverse skill sets and interests in professional settings, discussing how challenging this might be for early professionals and people throughout their professional journey, and sharing food-for-thought & resources along the way. Tune in for an enriching discussion on embracing multipotentiality and unlocking the full potential of our varied talents & passions.

“I think if you have ability and talent in one way, you have it in all ways.” - Evel Knievel

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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39min
March 04, 2024The 20s stories #7 - Volunteering: the beauty of giving back
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” - Mahatma Gandhi

In today's episode, Jacqueline & Christina introduce Anna Bazarna, a student at HEC Paris, who talks about volunteering. Anna will share her experiences and insights from volunteering while being a full-time student and discuss how it has affected her and others. They will chat about how to get started with volunteering, what motivates volunteers, and how much time you might need to commit. Get ready for an interesting conversation!

Key topics:
What steps can I take to begin volunteering?
What kinds of projects are available for me to start?
How can I manage my daily responsibilities alongside volunteering?
What inspires people to volunteer?
In what ways does volunteering enhance our self-awareness?
Is it possible to assist everyone through volunteering?

We discuss how volunteering contributes to personal and professional development, examining the level of self-awareness it can foster. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of giving back, expressing gratitude for our blessings, and acknowledging the limitations in our ability to assist everyone.

“If you see someone without a smile today, give them yours.” - Dolly Parton

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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34min
February 26, 2024The 20s stories #6 - Finance Trends & Skills: Career and Venture Insights
“Do what you love, and success will follow. Passion is the fuel behind a successful career.” - Meghan M. Biro

In today's episode, Jacqueline & Christina introduce Fayed & Emile, two MiM students from HEC Paris, as they dive into the world of finance. Fayed & Emile will share their experiences and insights from studying and working in finance. They will talk about the skills you need for a successful career, and provide tips & tricks for the ones interested in diving deeper into this specific industry. Get ready for an interesting chat!

Key topics:
What kinds of jobs can you have in finance?
What is Venture Capital and how can you start working in it?
How can you stay updated on the latest trends in finance?
What skills do you need to succeed in finance and how can you improve them?
How can you find mentors and build useful networks in finance?
What are the challenges and opportunities specifically for women in finance?

We talk about how being resilient helps in personal and professional growth, and we ook at the competition in finance and the challenges of getting into fields like Venture Capital. We also chat about how to keep up with the latest trends, the important skills you need to succeed, and tips for finding mentors and networking. Finally, we discuss the specific obstacles and chances for women in finance.

“Finance is not about money. It is about making dreams come true.” - Robert Kiyosaki

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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43min
February 20, 2024 The 20s stories #5 - Stress management & Resilience - Insights from Classes Préparatoires

“Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one.” – Hans Selye

In today's episode, Jacqueline & Christina are excited to welcome Jenny LIM, a MiM GE student from HEC Paris, as they delve into the intricate world of “classes préparatoires”. Jenny will unravel the myths surrounding this unique French curriculum, shedding light on its challenges and providing insights to navigate it effectively.

Key topics:

· What's “classes préparatoires” and what challenges do students typically face within this education system in France?

· How can one perceive when stress levels become unmanageable, and what actions can be taken to effectively address it?

· How to remain focused and disciplined amidst various distractions and competing obligations?

· How could you personally strike a balance between rigorous academic demands and other life commitments?

Anticipate an insightful dialogue delving into the significance of resilience for both personal and professional development, strategies for identifying and coping with overwhelming stress, techniques for staying focused amid distractions, and effectively juggling demanding academic obligations alongside other life commitments. Moreover, they will investigate the key motivators influencing career decisions post completion of “classes préparatoires”.

“The distance between dreams and reality is called action.”—Brian Tracy

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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41min
February 12, 2024The 20s stories #4 Discover Finance - Soft & hard skills toolkit
“The greatest technology in the world hasn’t replaced the ultimate relationship building tool between a customer and a business: the human touch.” - Shep Hyken

In today's episode, Jacqueline & Christina are thrilled to welcome Maximilien & Maj, two master's in international finance students from HEC Paris, to delve into the intricate world of finance. Joining us, Maximilien & Maj will share their experiences and insights, navigating the multifaceted landscape of the finance industry. They will discuss the diverse skill set required, drawing from their academic pursuits at HEC Paris to shape their career trajectories. Expect a stimulating conversation that's both enlightening and engaging!

Key topics:
What unexpected revelations have you encountered within the finance industry?
What skill set is essential for entering the field of finance?
How do you foresee AI and other technological advancements reshaping the finance landscape, and how will this influence your approach to the field?
What are the primary driving factors behind choosing a career in finance?

Explore the role of resilience in personal and professional growth, the competitive dynamics within finance, and the internal struggles encountered while pursuing ambitious goals. Additionally, uncover how the desire to make a meaningful impact drives career and life aspirations.

“Your job is not just to do what your parents say, what your teachers say, what society says, but to figure out what your heart calling is and to be led by that.” – Oprah Winfrey

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the “follow” button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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46min
February 05, 2024Coffee chitchat #5 - How to build your personal brand?
"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom."–Aristotle

In this episode of The 20s Project, join hosts Jacqueline and Christina as they dive into the fascinating world of personal branding and career development.

Together, they explore the journey of self-discovery and the importance of building a personal brand. They discuss the significance of personality tests like the Clifton Strengths Gallup assessment in identifying strengths and finding one's competitive advantage.

They will also share insights on aligning personal goals and aspirations with a unique selling proposition, and how individuals can shape their desired professional image. They delve into practical strategies for gaining exposure, from reaching out to alumni and professionals in the industry to leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn to increase visibility to recruiters.
How might I discern my individual competitive edge and strengths?
How can I ascertain that my objectives and aspirations are congruent with my Unique Selling Proposition (USP)?
What methodologies can I employ to acquire professional exposure and how should I articulate my introduction ?
What tactics could I employ to find a mentor and how might this endeavor bolster my career trajectory?

In this insightful discussion, discover the power of networking, navigating career fairs, and the benefits of mentoring in career development. Expect to learn more about how to present yourself authentically, seize opportunities for growth, and forge meaningful connections in your professional journey.

"Your personal brand is what people say about you when you are not in the room."

-Chris Ducker

Thank you for listening – we would love to hear your thoughts on this new episode and our journey together! Also feel free to reach out to us if you would like to participate in one of our upcoming episodes.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would appreciate it if you could help us grow through hitting the subscribe button, and do not hesitate to give us a rating!

See you again soon!

Christina & Jacqueline

Follow us on Instagram: @the.20sproject

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27min

FAQs about The 20s Project:

How many episodes does The 20s Project have?

The podcast currently has 20 episodes available.