Seyf Arab: Between the Tatami Mats and the Lecture Hall

At 19, Seyf is a third-year pharmacy student in Montpellier… and a top-level judoka. A member of Judo Olympique de Montpellier, he trains up to five times a week while taking his studies seriously. It’s a demanding balance that he manages with clarity, energy… and a great deal of discipline.

A competitive spirit

It was his father who introduced him to judo, having practiced it himself. “I tried a lot of sports, but from my very first judo practices, I knew this was the one. I was hooked right away.” Since then, his progress has never stopped, despite a break during his PASS year, when he put his training on hold.

His consistency and determination recently helped him qualify for the French Senior Second Division Championships, even though he’s still a junior. “I finished second. Of course, I have a little regret… but I’m taking away this little achievement, which is nice to end the year on.”

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 isn’t easy. But Seyf has managed to adapt. “Honestly, it’s pretty complicated. But the university is understanding, and I’ve learned to stay organized.” Today, his days follow a well-established routine: classes, studying, then training. “I have to leave school around 5:30–6:00 p.m. to go train. I do that five times a week.” Starting this year, his elite athlete contract with the university allows him to adjust certain schedules, particularly for lab sessions.

For him, sports are also a valuable source of mental support. “I need to let off steam. When I’m not training, I don’t feel as good. Judo grounds me; it helps me stay centered.” He admits, however, that he sometimes has to fight the temptation to give his all to sports at the expense of studying.

Studies chosen with conviction

Encouraged by his brothers—one of whom is also a pharmacy student in Montpellier—Seyf discovered the field and has truly thrived in it. He is now considering a residency, while keeping an eye on the pharmaceutical industry. “I’m still thinking it over. 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 prospective students: “Anything is possible with discipline. Don’t give up sports just because you’re pursuing a demanding course of study. You can succeed at both.”