Reinhard Hoell, Bank analyst (Leipzig, AIV '06)

" It was a presentation of the legendary Prof. Meselson when I first attended an AIV session. Immediately I was thrilled, it seemed like an absolutely unique program in Paris, very individual and interdisciplinary without a lot of bureaucracy attached. With some amazing individuals (both students and teachers) it took no convincing for me to apply a few months later.

Ultimately I would say, it was the AIV where I learned what science is all about. It is about thinking, passion and most importantly painstakingly throughout research. The three stages enabled me to see the differences between a good lab and a bad one, and what to watch out for when conducting my own research.

The other students were simply amazing, it was joyful to work with them in diverse group-projects even when we did not agree with each other. In our heated discussions they and our teachers would always seek out the last thoughtful questions to make sure I and they understood what we were contemplating about and what wider implications loomed about.
Following my original career plan and despite the current on-going economic situation, I remain in London fully committed to my career in Finance, yet there is not one day where I do not apply my AIV lessons. Just like back then I need to gain insight in new areas on a daily basis, just like then I need to have constructive discussions with my colleagues on complex models and just like then I am enjoying every day of it. "