Meet Léo, from French Polynesia, a multi-disciplinary officer cadet!
Join us for this series of profiles featuring cadets from France’s overseas territories – an opportunity to travel and discover their culture, and above all to find out what motivated them to join the ENSM.
Who are you?
🎙️“Léo Guyomard, aged 19, originally from Raiatea in French Polynesia. A second-year officer cadet at the ENSM in Marseille.
I grew up on the water and was inspired from a very early age by my grandfather, who was a sailor. For me, sailing was a natural choice, but I was looking for a practical course that constantly combines theory with hands-on experience. That’s exactly what the ENSM offers: between the numerous practical sessions at the school, the workshops and the on-board placements, right from the first year, you’re immediately immersed in the reality of the profession.”
The multi-disciplinary marine engineering programme was the deciding factor: being trained in both bridge and engine room operations gives you a comprehensive understanding of the ship. Finally, the award of an engineering degree was a key factor in my decision. It provides valuable security for the future and will be a major asset when the time comes for me to come ashore to work and get involved in our islands after a career at sea.
What’s your background?
🎙️“Straight after my A-levels in French Polynesia, I flew to the Marseille campus. Leaving your island, your family and everything you’re used to to head to the other side of the world isn’t easy every day, but you do it for a passion that drives you and a project that’s truly worth it.
After my first semester of lectures, I undertook my first on-board placement from December to March: over two months on a CMA CGM container ship sailing between Asia and the Middle East. It was an eye-opening experience. Getting the chance to go on board in your first year is a huge opportunity: the moment you set foot on board, you immediately understand in practical terms why you’re there. It gives you a real boost and makes you want to see the course through to the end!
Now, I’m starting my second year with that same motivation still intact.”
What was the application process like for getting into ENSM?
🎙️“Enrolment is simply via Parcoursup for the marine engineering programme. Selection is based on your academic record, with a fairly strong science background, and a good personal statement explaining what drives you and why you want to sail.”
Any anecdotes?
🎙️“Going from the small outboard motors back home to the engine room of a 370-metre container ship is quite a shock in terms of scale! From my very first time on board, I was involved in all the heavy maintenance work during the replacement of a piston in the main engine. Seeing a part weighing several tonnes – more than twice my height – being hoisted out and following every step alongside the engine officers really brings the job to life straight away.”