Could you introduce yourself in a few words?

My name is Lucas Bloyet, I am 21 years old and I come from Orsières in Valais. After completing my compulsory education in Orsières, I continued my studies at the ECCG in Martigny. I am passionate about sports, especially skiing, and I enjoy discovering new things and taking on challenges that give me an adrenaline rush.

What do you enjoy in life?

I enjoy anything that provides strong sensations and challenges. Among my passions are skydiving, freeride skiing, cliff jumping, motorsports, motorcycling and downhill mountain biking. I also enjoy more relaxed moments, spending time with my friends and making the most of life.

What motivated you to choose this internship at Idiap?

I discovered this opportunity during the “stage dating” event organized in Martigny, where MPE students could meet companies offering internships. Two members of Idiap’s administrative team were representing the institute. I had never heard of Idiap before, but I immediately found its activities very interesting. Its location in Martigny and its unique environment, in a world completely different from anything I had experienced before, particularly motivated me to apply.

What was your biggest discovery during this year?

My biggest discovery was the professional world. Until then, I had mainly experienced an academic environment, so entering the workplace was something completely new for me. I also discovered that it is possible to build genuine relationships and friendships at work. This makes the professional environment much more enjoyable than I had initially imagined.

Which skill did you develop the most during your internship?

The ability to apply theory to practice. I worked extensively in accounting and realized that what we learn at school is not always directly applicable in a professional environment. I therefore had to adapt and learn how to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Which project or task are you the proudest of?

The “TIP” (interdisciplinary project focused on a specific topic). The principle is to choose two school subjects and develop a project connected to them. In my case, I worked on changes to social charges related to apartments, and I received the highest grade.

What was the most memorable moment of your internship?

The most memorable moment of my internship was the day I took part in a photo shoot wearing ski equipment, right in the middle of Idiap!

If you had to sum up this year in three words, which ones would you choose?

(New) experiences, enrichment, memories.

What would you improve within the company?

In my opinion, there are mainly two areas that could be improved: the website and the introduction of a cafeteria for employees.

What will you miss the most when you leave?

The people I interacted with here every day. And, I have to admit, the salary!

What score out of 10 would you give this internship year, and why?

I would give this internship year a score of 9 out of 10. I was very well supported by the administrative team, and especially by Valentin, my supervisor, who taught me a lot and took the time to guide me throughout the internship.

What is the best piece of advice you received during your internship?

To trust myself more when carrying out tasks.

What is your professional dream?

My ultimate professional dream would be to become a professional skier. More realistically, I would like to work in wealth management. To achieve this goal, I will need to continue my studies with a Bachelor’s degree followed by a Master’s degree.

If you could swap your position for one day with someone at the company, who would you choose and why?

I would choose the Principal Investigators (PIs), or research group leaders, to see what they actually do in research and better understand their daily work.

What are your plans for the future?

In August, I will travel to Chile to film a ski movie. Afterwards, I will spend three months in San Diego to improve my English. After that, I will complete my military service.

A final word?

I would like to warmly thank everyone I had the chance to work with during this internship year. I have learned a great deal from all of you and I will keep excellent memories of this experience. And if you ever visit the Restaurant des Gorges du Durnand, run by my parents, do not hesitate to ask for Lucas: I would be delighted to welcome you there!

We would like to thank Lucas for his year at Idiap and wish him all the best for the future!