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Campus standouts - Oscar Geudvert
Let's meet Oscar Geudvert, a young high-level athlete who combines his passion for fencing with the demands of studying at the Solvay Brussels School.
Tell us about yourself?
I am Oscar Geudvert, a student-athlete with a passion for both fencing and studying at the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management. I began fencing at the age of six, and after 13 years, I can't imagine my life without it. I’m starting my second year of the Bachelor's program in Business Engineering.
Can you share your academic journey at Solvay Brussels School and discuss the challenges you faced balancing your education with your commitments to fencing?
At first, it was very difficult. I struggled to balance high-level fencing with my studies during the first semester exams. Besides the extra challenge of combining sports and academics, the transition from secondary school to university—especially at Solvay—was quite overwhelming. The habits I had developed no longer worked, and I had to adjust my mindset and organization. I began learning more about myself, studied with other students from my faculty at the library, and asked for help when needed. Of course, I also had to put in a lot of hard work.
As a high-level athlete, I don’t have much time to devote to my studies. I train almost twice a day and travel nearly every weekend for competitions or training camps. I'm always racing against the clock. So, when I’m home, I can’t afford to waste any time, and I make the most of it. Now, I’ve found my balance, and I haven’t failed an exam since my first semester.
What specific initiatives or resources does the university provide to support you in your dual role as a student and a fencer?
At ULB, there’s someone named Roxane Hennuy, who serves as a liaison between students and faculty. If I have any questions or requests, I contact her, and she does her best to make things possible. She helps us strike a balance between our studies and sports. For instance, if I’m abroad for a week and miss an important class, she’ll reach out to the professor to ask if I can join a different group to catch up. Roxane has made balancing fencing and studying much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for her support!
How do you handle the unique challenges associated with being a student-athlete while pursuing your studies at a demanding institution like Solvay Brussels School?
In one word: organization. To study at a prestigious university while excelling in your sport, you need to manage your time carefully. There are only 24 hours in a day, and if you want to attend lectures, practice, and study, you need to be very organized.
How do you plan to integrate your education at Solvay Brussels School into your future endeavors in fencing, and vice versa?
My education at Solvay Brussels School provides me with the business acumen and leadership skills essential for excelling in any field, including fencing. The analytical mindset and problem-solving techniques I develop at Solvay will enhance my approach to competitive fencing, allowing me to manage my athletic career more effectively.
Conversely, fencing has taught me discipline, perseverance, and adaptability—qualities that are invaluable in business. The mental toughness and focus required in fencing will help me tackle challenges in my academic and professional life with the same determination. By integrating these two worlds, I aim to not only improve as a fencer but also leverage my athletic experiences to bring a unique perspective to business and leadership in the future.
What essential skills do you find overlap between your studies and your career in fencing?
In my opinion, discipline is the most important skill. You need to work hard every single day if you want to progress in sport. You can’t skip training just because you don’t feel like it. The same applies to university—you must work consistently.
Perseverance is also key. A fencing season and an academic year are long, and staying motivated throughout is essential.
What advice would you offer to fellow students who are balancing demanding academic schedules with pursuing a career as an athlete?
It’s important to know your strengths and weaknesses. When I first started at Solvay, I followed the advice of many people, and as a result, I failed all my exams. In the second semester, I decided to tailor my approach to suit my own skills and needs. Since then, my academic journey has gone much better. So, my advice is to truly understand yourself and not blindly follow advice from others who may not fully know your situation.
How is your experience as a student-athlete at Solvay Brussels School shaping your personal and professional growth?
Being both a student and a high-level athlete has made me mature quickly, thanks to the need to stay organized and the experiences I’ve had traveling. It’s been an exceptional life experience, allowing me to discover the world and meet extraordinary people. I now have a clear idea of who I want to become, and I am taking steps to achieve it. This dual experience has also strengthened my determination and shaped my character.