This summer, discover each week the portrait of our M1 students who are currently on international mobility.

Today it is Rime, student in the Applied Mathematics and Optimization program, who is doing her internship at APGAR LTD, Larnaca (Cyprus).

1. What is your background?

Hello, my name is Rime Tarchihi. I am currently a Master’s student in ACSYON, Applied Mathematics and Optimization program at the University of Limoges. I previously obtained two bachelor’s degrees in actuarial science and computer science. This dual track allowed me to develop both mathematical rigor and solid technical skills, which naturally led me to join the Graduate School Excellence program, focused on research and innovation. Today, I am doing my internship in generative artificial intelligence in Larnaca, Cyprus.

2. International exchange is mandatory during the first-year Master’s program in TACTIC Grad School. Were you apprehensive about this exchange?

I had already left my country, Lebanon, about a year ago to come to France, which was already a big step for me. Going abroad again for an internship was, of course, a little scary at first, but I also saw it as an even more enriching opportunity. It’s a new immersion, a new culture, a new professional environment—all of which push me to evolve and grow, both personally and professionally.

3. How did the internship search go, and how did you choose your internship location?

I started my search quite early. I used several platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, ErasmusIntern, and others. I also tried to tap into my personal and professional contacts. Finally, I found an opportunity in Cyprus, which perfectly matched my interests, particularly generative artificial intelligence applied to data management.

4. What is the topic of your internship?

The topic of my internship is generative AI, more specifically “Augmented Data Management”, which involves applying generative AI models in the context of data stewardship to improve the efficiency of time-consuming tasks related to data management and quality.

5. How is the internship going overall? Integration with the on-site teams, etc.

The internship is going very well. The atmosphere is professional and relaxed, and the city of Larnaca, which is very summery, offers a pleasant setting. I’ve integrated well into the on-site team, despite the occasional language barrier, and I’m fortunate to work independently while being well supervised. The interactions are enriching, and I feel that my contribution is truly valued.

6. What are your responsibilities and what does a typical day of your internship looks like?

My responsibilities are directly related to the internship topic: I design, test, and implement solutions based on generative AI models to facilitate certain data management tasks. My typical day begins with technical planning, development, testing, and regular documentation.

7. A travel story to share? Any culture shock there?

In Cyprus, they drive on the left, and at the very beginning, when I wanted to take the bus, I stood on the wrong side of the street… As a result, I took the bus in the opposite direction from the one I was supposed to go. Otherwise, what struck me most was the pace of life, much slower and more relaxed than what I was used to. It takes a little time to adjust, but that’s also what makes the experience enriching and exotic.

8. What advice would you give to future students who are going on their exchange program?

I would tell them to go for it with ambition and not let fear of the unknown hold back this wonderful opportunity. You have to be daring, step out of your comfort zone, and above all, commit fully. International mobility is an incomparable human, academic, and professional experience that allows you to gain confidence, broaden your skills, and create memories and networks for the future.