What stands out to me most is the teachers’ kindness, the solidarity and mutual support among my classmates, and the school’s positive and dynamic atmosphere. It’s a very pleasant and welcoming place to study and spend time.
Anja Ratajczak is in the Department of Language Teaching and Research. At the start of the 2024–2025 academic year, she decided to take the agrégation exam after completing her Master’s 1 (M1) at the University of Glasgow as a teaching assistant.
What has your experience been like at ENS Paris-Saclay?
I was admitted to the first year of the Department of Language Teaching and Research based on my application.
In 2024–2025, I will be in my third year at ENS Paris-Saclay, during which I will prepare to take the agrégation exam.
After completing my third year (L3) of the English major, I pursued my Master’s 1 (M1) at the University of Glasgow as a teaching assistant, where I taught French to students at all five levels of the Scottish bachelor’s degree program.
I was then accepted into the PhD Track program at ENS Paris-Saclay, which offers scholarships to students wishing to pursue a doctoral degree. As part of this program, I worked on a pre-doctoral project titled “A Linguistic and Rhetorical Analysis of Charles III’s Speeches on the Environment (1970–2025): Representational, Activist, or Political Discourse?”
During my study abroad program, I also wrote a specialized thesis in English titled “The Independence Rhetoric of Nicola Sturgeon’s Keynote Speeches at the SNP’s Annual Conferences.”
Did you know from the start what you wanted to do when you entered ENS Paris-Saclay?
When I entered ENS Paris-Saclay, I planned to follow a traditional path focused on teaching and research, with a specialization in cultural studies. However, I ultimately chose to specialize in “Specialized English” after discovering this discipline during my third year of undergraduate studies.
Since I had some doubts about my ability to teach, I chose to spend my exchange year as a teaching assistant to determine whether this profession was right for me. This year allowed me to teach French 13 hours a week and to gain real-world experience in the profession thanks to my full integration into the teaching staff at Glasgow.
This unique experience confirmed my interest in this profession.
I will be taking the specialized preparatory year for the agrégation in 2024–2025, with a focus on cultural studies, since there is no specialized track in English for this program.
Did you want to pursue research from the very beginning of your studies?
From the very beginning of my studies, I had a strong interest in research. Discovering specialized English at ENS Paris-Saclay and completing my first research project during my first year of the Master’s program (M1) confirmed my interest in this field.
I find research exciting and stimulating, and it pairs well with teaching and interacting with students. It allows for continuous learning while exploring original and creative topics.
What are your plans for the future?
After obtaining my agrégation, I hope to pursue a Ph.D. and become a faculty member and researcher.
How would you describe your education at ENS Paris-Saclay?
ENS Paris-Saclay has given me so much, both academically and personally. The Department of Languages promotes kindness and personal growth, offering students the opportunity to discover themselves and deepen their knowledge.
For me, this experience was eye-opening, allowing me to discover specialized English—a field that perfectly aligns with my interests: text analysis, ethnography, and knowledge of history and civilization.
The partnership with the University of Glasgow provided me with an enriching teaching experience, where I was able to teach full-time. The constant support from the faculty in the Department of Languages—both emotional and academic—helped me overcome challenges and make progress. The school offers numerous opportunities, such as programs of excellence, creative activities, and academic events, allowing everyone to create a unique academic journey.
What stands out most to you about campus life?
I especially remember the professors’ kindness, the solidarity and mutual support among my classmates, and the school’s positive and dynamic atmosphere. It’s a very pleasant and welcoming place to study and live.
What advice would you give to students who are hesitant about attending the school?
I would advise students who are hesitant about attending ENS Paris-Saclay to take a chance, without worrying that enrolling at the school will limit their academic choices. The school offers great freedom in shaping our academic paths, valuing every activity in which students engage.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’d like to thank the faculty in the language department for their support and kindness throughout these past two years!
I’d also like to welcome all new and future students!