Interview: Emma Bernard, elite athlete and distance learning student at Grenoble Law School

Training
A pioneer in distance learning, the Grenoble Law School has been offering this type of program for over 30 years, with courses ranging from undergraduate to Master's level. The program is delivered via a digital learning platform called Moodle, which offers all the features needed to work from home while remaining connected to the network of teachers, researchers, and students. This program benefits all students who are unable to attend classes in person for personal or professional reasons, such as Emma Bernard, a 22-year-old elite athlete and distance learning student, whose story we share below.
What sport do you compete in at a high level?
My sport is snowboarding. I was on the French national team for five years, during which time I competed on the international circuit (World Cups and World Championships). The most important titles I have won so far are: Junior World Champion in halfpipe, Junior World Vice-Champion in team boardercross, and third in the overall World Cup halfpipe rankings.

What did you study at the Faculty of Law in Grenoble?
I completed my three-year law degree at the Faculty of Law in Grenoble and am continuing this year with a Master's 1 in Business Law.

Why did you choose distance learning?
As I am abroad and traveling almost all year round for training and competitions, and I have to do a lot of physical training when there is no snow, it is impossible for me to attend classes in person. Distance learning allows me to balance my sport with the studies I want to pursue.

What do you see as the advantages of this mode of learning?
The main advantage is being able to continue your studies without having to attend lectures or tutorials, which is significant for an athlete who has to devote themselves to their sport! I recommend this method of teaching to other high-level athletes who want to study law.

In your opinion, are there any disadvantages to this method of teaching?
I think the disadvantage is that there isn't really any real contact with the professors as there is in face-to-face classes; everything is done through email or on the forum.

What advice would you give to future distance learning students to help them get the most out of their year of study?
In distance learning, we are kind of "left to our own devices," so to succeed, I think you need to be organized in your revision, determined, and above all, motivated!

What do you think of the MOODLE teaching platform and its educational forum?
The Moodle concept is good for accessing courses. The same goes for the forum, which allows you to ask questions if you have difficulties with a course.

During your training, did you do your homework and attend the optional tutorials?
Unfortunately, with my schedule, it is difficult for me to submit my homework on time, as I work on my courses from May to August. The same goes for the tutorials, which are
offered once the competition season has started!

Are you planning to continue your studies through distance learning?
This year, I am continuing my distance learning studies in Master 1. As the Master 2 program I wish to pursue is not offered through distance learning, I will continue my studies in initial training.

What are your career plans?
My plan is to take the bar exam at the end of my Master 2 to become a lawyer.
Published on February 23, 2017
Updated on July 1, 2024