IDEX Scholar, Zeinab Hoteit from Lebanon, Shares the Story of How She Pursued Her Master’s in BioHealth Engineering at Université Grenoble Alpes in France

Hello, my name is Zeinab Hoteit, and I am originally from Lebanon. My academic journey has always been driven by a passion for Biomedical Research, with a specific focus on Biotherapies. After completing my Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, I sought to broaden my expertise beyond the pure biology/ biochemistry domain. I decided to pursue a Master's degree in BioHealth Engineering at the Faculty of Pharmacy of Université Grenoble Alpes to gain a holistic view of biomedicine, incorporating essential pharmaceutical and engineering knowledge.

IDEX Scholarship Details

I was awarded the IDEX Scholarship from Université Grenoble Alpes. This scholarship was awarded for my first year (M1) and was successfully renewed for my second year (M2), as the renewal was dependent on maintaining high academic results each year. This scholarship provided 8,000 euros for the M1 year and 5,000 euros for the M2 year (as the second year included a paid internship).

I was accepted into the "Living Well, Ageing Well" Graduate School, part of the France 2030 program at the Université Grenoble Alpes. This program automatically offered the same financial amount as the IDEX scholarship, spread over two years. However, due to a regulation at the time that favored foreign baccalaureate holders, and because I hold a French Baccalaureate, I was permitted to pursue the highly enriching academic program, but was unfortunately unable to receive the associated scholarship funds. I highly recommend this program, as the coordination (notably Christophe Capuano) is excellent, and it provides valuable interdisciplinary training.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from Université Saint Joseph de Beyrouth. Following my acceptance into the BioHealth Engineering International Master 1 program in France, I maintained a high distinction GPA during my M1 year (which included an internship in Drug Discovery). This strong academic achievement led to the renewal of my IDEX scholarship for M2. For my M2 specialization, I focused on Health Engineering, Science and Management of Biotechnologies, specializing in Cell and Gene Therapy and Tissue Engineering.

My education culminated in a research internship at INSERM (INMED) in Marseille, where I focused on Neurodevelopmental disorders. My biochemistry background gave me the necessary molecular and cellular foundation, while my Master's program added the essential pharmaceutical and engineering perspectives, preparing me for cutting-edge biotherapies research.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Université Grenoble Alpes?

I was informed about the program and the scholarship directly by the Lebanese University. After completing a semester with excellent grades, the university offered to recommend me for a Master's program and an associated scholarship in France.

I did not take any mandatory standardized tests for my application. I had previously taken the TOEFL exam, but it was not a requirement for admission to this specific program.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the IDEX Scholarship?

My experience with both the IDEX scholarship administration and the Graduate School program has been excellent (an easy 10/10). The IDEX scholarship process was smooth; the administration communicated directly with the university regarding my presence and grades, and my only personal interaction was to formally accept the award at the start of each year. The "Living Well, Ageing Well" Graduate School was a truly great experience; the coordinator and people involved are highly dedicated and amazing.

Academically, I rate the institution and the programs a 10/10. The Graduate School program, in particular, was very enriching, featuring classes taught by professionals across various fields related to ageing (biomedical, psychology, sociology, physiotherapy, etc.). Additionally, the annual week-long Summer School at the European Scientific Institute on the French-Geneva campus was an exceptional experience, involving team projects and presentations of our internship work in a great setting.

The classes for my Master's degree were primarily conducted in English. However, the Graduate School program ("Living Well, Ageing Well") was exclusively in French, and speaking French was a requirement for entry into that specific program.

I believe my application stood out primarily due to my strong motivation. I was extremely eager to enter this program as it precisely matched what I was looking for: a synthesis of biological, engineering, and pharmaceutical knowledge. Naturally, my consistent high academic achievements were also a crucial factor in the selection process.

Given the outcome, I am very satisfied with the process, but I would have potentially reached out to the Graduate School program coordinators earlier to clarify the specific rules regarding the French Baccalaureate and scholarship eligibility, though this regulation has since changed.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My key advice for people looking for the same scholarship:

1. 1. Start Early: Apply for the scholarships as early as possible, as there is often a primary list and a waiting list, and applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
   2. Be Specific: Don't just list your achievements; connect them directly to the scholarship criteria and clearly articulate how your studies will impact your community or your field.