Launch of the X25 Buddy Programme: A Convivial Evening at the Maison des Polytechniciens

On 12 May 2026, nearly 100 pairs of mentors, mentees, and international students from the X25 cohort gathered at the Maison des Polytechniciens to officially launch the Buddy Programme of X25 cohort. Also in attendance were kessiers inter from various cohorts and representatives of l’École Polytechnique. For the first time, the event took the form of a midweek dinner, a format warmly received by all participants.

The evening began with a cocktail reception, followed by speeches from Loïc Rocard (X91), President of the AX, Frédéric de Dinechin (X86), programme coordinator, and Oumaïma Gamry (X24), kessière inter. Conversations continued over dinner, strengthening the bonds between generations.

Established 20 years ago, the programme supports international students throughout their three years at l’X, easing their integration and fostering lasting connections. This year, the X25 cohort represents 27 nationalities.

The next event will be a picnic by the lake at l’X on 5 September 2026. To become a mentor, contact parrainage@ax.polytechnique.org, the call for applications will open in December.

A Testimonial from Arthur Heumi Biateu (X25), Cameroonian:

"The start of the mentorship programme at the AX has been an incredibly enriching experience. From our very first exchanges, I was struck by the availability, kindness, and warmth of my mentor, Frédéric Dermer (X97). His genuine willingness to share his experience and perspective on the professional world has given me greater confidence and peace of mind as I embark on this new chapter.

The launch evening was particularly enjoyable. The organisation encouraged meaningful conversations in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I had the opportunity to discuss my mentor’s career path, his time at l’École Polytechnique, and his industry in depth. These exchanges allowed me to discover an inspiring journey while gaining practical insights into the opportunities and challenges of a professional career.

One piece of advice he shared resonated deeply with me. He noted that many students approach alumni primarily to secure internships or job opportunities, often missing the true value of these interactions. In his view, the primary goal should be to understand a sector, learn from the experiences of those who came before, and build relationships based on genuine interest. This reflection helped me better grasp the value of a strong network: it is not just a collection of useful contacts, but a foundation of sincere, lasting, and mutually enriching exchanges.

More broadly, conversations with other mentors, mentees, and students confirmed the immense value of the mentorship programme. It creates tangible links between generations within the Polytechnique community and provides access to invaluable insights—both for career choices and personal growth.

I left the launch evening with great enthusiasm for what lies ahead in the programme. I look forward to continuing my discussions with my mentor, particularly around the challenges of artificial intelligence and finance, and I am convinced that this relationship will be a significant source of learning and enrichment, both professionally and personally."

 View the photos from this event

> Find out more about Buddy Programme