Seyf Arab between tatami mats and lecture halls

At 19, Seyf is a third-year pharmacy student in Montpellier... and a high-level judoka. A member of Judo Olympique de Montpellier, he trains up to five times a week, while continuing to study hard. It's a demanding balance that he manages with clarity, energy... and a lot of discipline.

A competitive spirit

It was his father who introduced him to judo, having practiced it himself. "I tried lots of sports, but as soon as I started judo training, I knew it was the right one for me. I was hooked right away." Since then, he has continued to progress, despite taking a break during his PASS year, when he put his training on hold.

His consistency and determination recently enabled him to qualify for the French senior second division championships, even though he is still a junior. "I finished second. I'm a little disappointed, of course... but I'll remember this small achievement, which is nice at the end of the year."

Next goal: the French team championship, scheduled for June.

Organization and discipline: the key to balance

Juggling a double life as a student and a high-level athlete is no easy task. But Seyf has learned to adapt. "Honestly, it's pretty complicated. But the university is understanding, and I've learned to be organized." Today, his days follow a well-established routine: classes, studying, then training. "I have to leave college around 5:30-6:00 p.m. to go to training. I do that five times a week." Since this year, his elite athlete contract with the faculty allows him to adjust certain schedules, particularly for practical classes.

Sport is also a valuable source of mental support for him. "I need to let off steam. When I'm not training, I don't feel as good. Judo calms me down and helps me stabilize." However, he admits that he sometimes has to fight the temptation to give his all to sport at the expense of his studies.

Studies chosen with conviction

Encouraged by his brothers, one of whom is also a pharmacy student in Montpellier, Seyf discovered the field and has flourished in it. He is now considering an internship, while keeping an eye on the pharmaceutical industry. "I'm still thinking about it. Maybe in three months, I'll want to work in a pharmacy! We'll see."

In the meantime, he wants to send a clear message to future students: "Anything is possible with discipline. Don't give up sports just because you're studying hard. You can succeed at both."