Campus standouts - Ambre Ballenghien

We went to meet Ambre Ballenghien, a student-athlete who combines studying Economics with a high-level career in field hockey. In a few weeks, she will proudly represent Belgium at the Paris Olympic Games.

How does the Solvay Brussels School support students juggling the dual role of student and high-level athlete, and what specific initiatives or resources are in place? 

I can lighten my course load and spread my studies out to better combine them with my sport and find the right balance. I also have the option to reschedule my exams when my sports schedule doesn't allow me to take them at the same time as other students. I can also miss certain mandatory classes or practical work sessions.

Have you experienced moments when the Solvay Brussels School faculty particularly supported you in your academic and athletic journey?

In 2020, when there was the lockdown due to COVID, I found myself with much more time than expected while I was enrolled for only 30 credits. The university agreed to modify my program and allowed me to add courses so that I could earn more credits. It was an "exceptional" situation beyond our control, but they allowed me to take advantage of it by earning 45 credits that year. It allowed me to progress more than initially planned in my studies.

How do you envision integrating your training at Solvay Brussels School into your future projects, and vice versa? How do these two aspects of your life complement each other?

I would like to bring the mental approach we use in sports into the business world. There are huge similarities and many transferable qualities from one world to the other. The ultimate goal is to perform at the highest level of our abilities and succeed by making the best use of the resources around us.

With your imminent participation in the Paris Olympics Games, how do you manage to balance your intensive preparation as a hockey player with your academic responsibilities at Solvay Brussels School?

I have decided not to take many courses this year and to prioritize hockey because participating in the Olympics Games and trying to win a medal is my biggest dream. I try to listen to my body, adjust when necessary to have the best possible balance to perform at the highest level. I plan to take some exams after the Games in the open session in September/October.

If you had the opportunity to create a hockey team with professors from Solvay Brussels School, who would you put in the attack?

I would put Ms. Gassner; she already plays hockey as a goalkeeper, so I am curious to see what she is capable of in the offensive circle. I have high hopes for her goal-scoring abilities. 

What advice would you give to other students juggling rigorous academic demands while pursuing a sports career?

Try to organize your weeks well, juggle study moments, sports practice, and social life. It is important to find your own balance. And be patient because studies may take longer than for others, but in the end, it’s the best way to combine good studies and high-level sports.

How would you describe the experience of representing Belgium at the Olympics Games?

It is a huge pride! It is bigger than me as a person, than hockey, or even our team. We are representing our country at the biggest sports competition in the world. It is an incredible feeling and makes you want to do everything to bring back a medal and make all Belgians proud.

What is your mental preparation routine before an important match?

I generally set three goals for the match, related to my role on the field. Always things I can control. Then I do some visualization. And finally, I listen to certain music that helps me concentrate.

If you could meet an athlete from any sport, who would you choose and why?

I would like to meet an NBA player, Stephen Curry. He is an incredible player, and I really like his style of play. The basketball culture in the USA is amazing. I would love to talk to him about his life as an NBA star, his career, his way of thinking, playing, etc.