on the January 17, 2025
In this interview, we speak with two international students enrolled in the MSc in Environmental Hazards and Risks Management program: Michelle Tran from California, United States, and Ibrahim Zahra from Lebanon. Their insights highlight the critical role of interdisciplinary expertise in addressing global environmental challenges.
Ibrahim, with a background in Mechanical Engineering and Project Management, is driven by a passion for sustainability. Inspired by Einstein’s wisdom, he strives to create innovative, preventive approaches to managing natural and human-made hazards, with a focus on building resilient communities.
IDEXLearning: You're doing the MSc in Environmental Hazards and Risks Management. Tell us a bit more about what you are learning in this program.
MT: In this MSc program, various environmental topics were studied to understand and acknowledge the cause of their risks by utilizing multiple technical platforms, such as ArcGIS, Python, R Studio, etc. This entices us to challenge ourselves to discover different ways to adapt to the future by cultivating sustainable management strategies.
IZ: In this MSc program, I am gaining a comprehensive understanding of global challenges and the dynamic risks posed by environmental hazards. This includes various types of hazards, such as natural disasters (earthquakes, floods) and anthropogenic risks (industrial accidents, pollution). The MSc Risk program emphasizes innovative solutions, using advanced tools such as remote sensing and geospatial data analysis.
IDEXLearning: Why would you recommend this program to prospective international students?
MT: Not only will you develop new technical and interpersonal skills from this program, but you will also gain a strong perspective on how to make a generational change in the environment. Students are given the opportunity to demonstrate these skills through hands-on experience in the field away from university classrooms.
IZ: This program offers practical expertise and cutting-edge tools, such as remote sensing and GIS, for risk assessment and management. Its emphasis is on professional development and real-world applications. It prepares graduates for impactful careers in addressing environmental and societal challenges.
IDEXLearning: Why did you choose Université Côte d'Azur?
MT: I applied to Université Côte d'Azur primarily because the MSc Environmental Hazards and Risks Management program aligns with my future goals and passion for becoming a design engineer focused on environmental solutions. Additionally, the university's location in southern France particularly appealed to me, offering a diverse French culture for both locals and tourists, as well as its beautiful, warm weather.
IZ: I chose Université Côte d'Azur because of its strong reputation for excellence in environmental research and innovation.
IDEXLearning: Did you prepare yourself in any special way before leaving?
MT: Lots of research was done prior to my arrival in France, such as virtually exploring the surrounding areas along the Riviera and discovering various benefits the university offers. I also took the initiative to learn basic conversational French and familiarize myself with the different modes of transportation for commuting.
IZ: No, I didn’t prepare in any special way. I have six years of experience working in humanitarian organizations, which provided me with good experience.
The program is designed to teach the tools and techniques from the fundamentals upwards, so it makes it easy for students from diverse professional backgrounds to integrate.
IDEXLearning: What were your first impressions when you arrived on the French Riviera? Did it match the image you in had in your mind?
MT: I arrived a couple of weeks early before attending the university to truly explore the French Riviera with my family, and it was quite an enjoyable event, considering I had little traveling experience in Europe. Upon arriving in France, I was instantly captivated by the architecture, cuisine, and language, which ultimately exceeded my expectations and left a long-lasting impression.
IZ: Actually, I'm biased toward Nice in everything! I visited France several times before attending the program and explored different cities, but this area is different. It exceeded my expectations. It has a stunning coastline and a vibrant atmosphere.
IDEXLearning: What advice would you give to other students considering studying at Université Côte d’Azur?
MT: Like most, I was quite nervous about moving to France, but choosing to study at Université Côte d’Azur turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. The opportunity to immerse myself in an international program while experiencing the European culture and beauty of the French Riviera has been truly transformative. If you have the passion and motivation to pursue a higher degree, don't let fear of the unknown hold you back; taking the first step is the hardest part, but it's also the most rewarding.
IZ: To enjoy learning and gaining skills that have a meaningful impact and help save the world!
