From Algeria to Pau: Lyes Yantren’s Journey as a Work-Study Master’s Student in Human Resources
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Born in Greater Kabylia, Algeria, Lyes chose to pursue his studies in France.Now studying Human Resources Management at CESI’s Pau campus, he is continuing his journey with determination. Currently completing a work-study program at TotalEnergies, he shares his story and delivers an encouraging message to all students dreaming of international mobility.
Meeting Lyes
CAn you introduce yourself in a few words and tell us about your background ?
My name is Lyes. I was born in Greater Kabylia, in a small Algerian village, and today I am a Master’s student in Human Resources, completing a work-study program at CESI in Pau.
I started with a degree in Economics and Management, then earned a bachelor’s degree in Corporate Finance from the University of Algiers. But I have always had this desire to move, to discover something different, and to challenge myself in a new environment.
My journey in France began in August 2023, when I arrived in the South-West of the country. I first enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree in Administration and Social Sciences at the University of Pau before joining CESI to specialise in Human Resources Management.
What motivated you to pursue your studies abroad ?
My choice was driven by a mix of curiosity and a desire for independence. I really wanted to discover a new educational environment and meet people with different perspectives. I was looking to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone.
It is a personal commitment and an irreplaceable experience.
How did your arrival in france and your adaptation to a new academic system go ?
I will always remember my arrival in Pau: two suitcases, an unfamiliar city, and the feeling of being far from everything I knew. There was so much to discover, take in and learn. Not to mention the administrative procedures during the first few days, which were not easy…
Yet these challenges motivated me to keep moving forward. Thanks to my determination, I found my place and thrived in this new environment.
DID you face any difficulties along the way ? IF so, how did you overcome them ?
There are moments when doubt really sets in : you start questioning yourself, lose confidence, and wonder whether you can keep going. Adjusting to a new country, a new system, and a new life is not something that happens overnight.
You have to accept that the journey will be long and sometimes uncomfortable, but keep moving forward anyway.
What I learned from this experience is that perseverance and resilience are qualities you build day by day, by choosing not to give up even when things seem difficult.
WHat made you choose to study human resources ?
Through my internships and hands-on experiences, I developed a strong interest in HR, especially in skills development and career development within companies.
What truly motivated me was the human side behind organisations : understanding how people can grow and thrive at work. My background in finance complemented all of this naturally, especially when it came to making strategic decisions and managing HR projects.
you are completing a work-study program at totalenergies. What does your role as an HR and skills project officer involve ?
I work on managing technical skills frameworks and the evolution of roles within the Group. I also handle matters relating to workforce planning and career development. What I enjoy most is the variety of tasks, ranging from training design and skills development to promoting career opportunities.
Which skills learned during your studies do you use today in your work-study program ?
At CESI, I learned how to manage projects, master legal and financial concepts, and develop a genuine strategic vision of HR.
What I use most on a daily basis is this rigour and the ability to get up to speed quickly.
What message would you like to share with students who want to study abroad but are still hesitating ?
Studying abroad is a challenge that requires resilience and patience, but above all, it is an experience that transforms you and opens doors you never imagined possible.
If you have that desire, that little inner spark pushing you to explore new horizons, listen to it!
Want to study in France ?
Would you like to study at CESI as part of an exchange program or a degree program?
CESI welcomes students from all over the world onto a range of study programs every year.