We talk to Marylin Camarda, who graduated in human resources from the ESTC. Energetic, versatile and always eager to learn, her unique career path has given her a wide range of skills.

Can you tell us about your studies and your career so far?

I never set foot in a high school! At age 15 ½ I went to study at a CFA (apprenticeship training centre). In two years I had obtained a CAP and a BEP in sales. At age 32 I obtained a BTS in Business Unit Management via the French validation of professional experience procedure.

I then obtained a number of diplomas in security (C.Q.P.A.D.S /S.S.I.A.P 1/C.Q.P A.S.A) and worked, amongst other things, as a security agent at Marseille airport. At the same time, I was also a keen sportswoman and obtained a certificate as federal monitor for contact sports and associated disciplines.

I wanted to start working in the clothing retail sector and got a job with the British brand Superdry. As staff delegate and secretary of the hygiene, safety and working conditions committee within the company, I was in direct contact with the person in charge of human resources, and so I developed skills in employment law. I wanted the skills to be recognised by a qualification so I decided to apply for the Master’s in Human Resources at the ESTC. I was able to complete the programme in two years via distance learning while still working as store manager at Superdry. A year after finishing the master’s, I accepted a post as regional training manager at JD Sport.

What is your current situation?

I’m currently regional training manager at JD Sport. It’s a really interesting role: I travel all around France to manage training for 40 in-store teams. I travel from Marseille to Toulouse, to the border with Luxembourg, to Orleans… I also train store managers (in communications, stock management etc.).

Why did you choose the ESTC to study for your FEDE degree?

Before enrolling in the Master’s in Human Resources at the ESTC, I had already been on an examination committee there. So I knew what the atmosphere was like that. You really have a lot of support from the staff, and I really appreciated that.

How has your FEDE degree advanced your career?

Having my human resources skills recognised by the FEDE degree has increased my professional legitimacy. My experience on the ground, my theoretical skills in employment law (proven by the degree) and my fluency in English were definitely advantages when applying for my current job.

What is your fondest memory of your time at the ESTC?

The support I received from the ESTC team was really important for me. I’d like to mention Delphine, who worked really hard to help me prepare my oral presentations and help me succeed. Also, Brice the IT manager, was always on hand to offer help using the online platform.

What advice would you give to people currently studying at the ESTC?

I think that if you stop learning you are more or less dying… So I’d tell the younger generations to work hard and to keep learning. They are really lucky to have knowledge at their fingertips and to be able to combine learning and entertainment. Seize the opportunity!