Students begin academic year with industry insights

On October 5, 220 students from ESCAET gathered at the Aix-en-Provence Congress Center to start their academic year. They participated in sessions where over 20 professionals shared their knowledge and experiences in the tourism industry, covering topics like leisure travel, MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions), travel management, institutional tourism, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Roundtable discussions highlight industry dynamics

Roundtable discussions and exchanges allowed students to explore the diversity of careers and transformations within the tourism sector. Arnaud Vergès, during a roundtable with student Cyril Alleman, emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge while also listening and learning from new entrants in the industry. Isabelle Bremond, Director General of Provence Tourism, advised students to be curious, agile, and bold.

Team-building fosters student connections

The academic year continued with two days of team-building activities aimed at fostering connections among different student cohorts. These events were particularly significant given that 80% of students attend classes remotely or in hybrid formats, facilitated by immersive multimedia rooms equipped with the SAMII system.

Scavenger hunt promotes destination experiences

This year, students explored Aix-en-Provence through my Explore Bag, a company supported by Provence Travel Innovation, an incubator backed by ESCAET and Provence Tourism. In teams, students participated in a scavenger hunt combining puzzles, challenges, and local heritage discovery. This activity highlighted the variety of experiences that can be designed to promote a destination.

Industry professionals contribute to teaching

At ESCAET, the close relationship with the industry extends beyond the start of the academic year. Teaching is provided by professionals in tourism and event management, some of whom have joined the school as Travel Instructors. This ensures pedagogical continuity, regular support for students, and content aligned with market changes.

Events highlight career opportunities

Throughout the year, other key events continue this dynamic, such as "Paroles de pros," which highlight specific sectors and invite professionals to share their career paths, opening up the range of possible careers in tourism and event management. Projects conducted with companies provide students with opportunities to tackle real-world management and project management challenges.

Graduation event connects students with employers

The commitment to bridging education and industry continues beyond the classroom. A key upcoming event is the graduation ceremony on December 12, 2026, open to companies interested in meeting new graduates and offering partnership opportunities. This event allows companies to enhance visibility, expand their network, and meet recently graduated professionals, particularly in the context of recruitment.

Students involved in major tourism event

From November 25 to 27, 2026, Aix-en-Provence will host the Universities of Sustainable Tourism, a major event focused on sector transitions. Around 30 ESCAET students will be involved in organizing the event, particularly in project management, event support, and communication. This provides an opportunity for students to apply their skills alongside professionals engaged in tourism transformations.