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Hubert PERNOD is a student on the Grande École Program at IÉSEG and has chosen to serve as a reservist with the Civil Military Police (Gendarmerie Nationale) in France. In this interview, Hubert shares his journey, motivations, and what this dual experience—academic and military—brings to his life.

Why did you choose to become a reservist in the Civil Military Police?

My involvement started in December 2022, when I was in my first year of the Grande École Program at IÉSEG. However, the idea of joining the “Gendarmerie Nationale” dates back to high school, a time when I encountered various situations that made me feel the need to be useful to others. Throughout my childhood, I was surrounded by members of this institution, who instilled in me a sense of duty.

I waited until I had a certain level of stability in my life before pursuing this project, and finally, in October 2023, I joined the Military Preparation for the Gendarmerie (PMG) at the Beynes camp after going through the recruitment process. This engagement was my way of getting involved for my community and giving meaning to my life, at a time when such a concept can seem unclear to many young people! The reserve allows me to give help to citizens and teaches me a great deal in my personal life.

What does it mean to be an operational reservist?

The primary objective of the reserve is to reinforce active units (professional “gendarmes”) during regular or occasional missions. If we pass our Military Preparation for the Gendarmerie and obtain our PMG certificate, we are assigned to the nearest company, in my case, the 8th Company based in Villeneuve-D’Ascq.

Regular missions typically involve general surveillance (day or night patrols). Additionally, we may be called upon for occasional missions, such as supporting order services during sports or cultural events, like during the recent Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where the reserve played a key role in the security of the various events and ceremonies. We are mobilized to ensure the safety of participants while remaining mindful of potential threats.

The great advantage of the reserve is the flexibility of this commitment and the level of responsibility entrusted to us. Indeed, we carry out the same tasks as our active-duty counterparts, and on the ground, there is nothing that distinguishes us from them, which demands a high level of excellence and impeccable behavior. The training we undergo each year (intervention, criminal law, legal framework, first aid, shooting, etc.) helps us improve and refine our skills daily, regardless of the situation we encounter.

Is it difficult to manage being a student at IÉSEG and a reservist?

Being a student and a reservist is entirely compatible thanks to the flexibility the reserve offers. It is possible to adjust our availability according to our schedule, ensuring we are not called during our exam study periods, exams, internships, or even when studying abroad. Additionally, IÉSEG has been understanding regarding my military training, granting me exceptional leave to complete my PMG, which lasted two weeks in a closed military camp.

Thanks to the reserve, I have also enriched my student experience, as I became the representative of IÉSEG’s academic college at ANAROSGEND, an association that promotes the Military Police Reserve. In this association, I am responsible for supporting students who wish to join the reserve and need assistance with their application process.

For me, student life is the perfect time to get involved. We have relatively flexible schedules, making it easy to be available for the missions assigned to us.

What are your best memories since joining the reserve?

Before being a civic commitment, the reserve is a human adventure. The initial military training pushes us to our limits, both physically and mentally. The sense of camaraderie and unity within the army strengthens our bonds and has allowed me to meet people I will never forget. The discipline, ongoing training, high standards regarding our conduct, as well as the know-how and personal qualities we develop, are values I will carry with me throughout my life.

Naturally, the best way to experience out-of-the-ordinary situations is to be out in the field. I have been involved in many challenging cases, full of emotions, which will leave me with lasting memories, but also a great sense of satisfaction, having helped people in difficulty or in danger. The recognition from citizens we meet during our patrols is also very rewarding.

What is your goal after completing your studies?

After my master’s degree, I plan to take the University Gendarmerie Officer (OGU) exam, which will lead me to a career as an officer in the “Gendarmerie Nationale” and allow me to combine everything I have learned during my studies at IÉSEG with my military commitment.

I also plan to apply for the Grande École Partnership, offered in collaboration with the Army, the Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan Military Academy, and IÉSEG. This six-month experience, which can take place during the second year of the Grande École Program, will strengthen my military training and deepen my goal of applying to the Officer School of the “Gendarmerie Nationale”.

Final words

I encourage anyone who wants to get involved not to hesitate! There are many qualified individuals available to provide information and guide you through the process. There are numerous opportunities at our age to dedicate time to our country, whether through the reserve (in all branches of the military), as a volunteer firefighter, or by volunteering through associations. These are all great opportunities to experience meaningful moments and be helpful.