Basketball and Pharmacy: Noémie Costa's dual challenge

In her third year of pharmacy studies in Montpellier while playing basketball in the National 2 league in Mauguio, 24-year-old Noémie Costa proves that with organization and passion, it is possible to balance high-level sports and demanding studies.

Sports and studies: meticulous organization

"I train almost every evening in Mauguio, leaving at 6:30 p.m. and returning around 9:30 or 10 p.m.," she explains. Her method? Maximizing her days, relying on student support, and working intensely during the time slots available.

Although she admits that she doesn't have time to attend all the lectures, Noémie makes up for this with a lot of personal work, mutual assistance between students, and a high degree of independence. She finds the tutorials and practical work during the day indispensable.

Although she benefits from special arrangements as a high-level athlete, she has not yet had the opportunity to use them: "For now, I can do everything like everyone else."

A remarkable athletic career

A basketball player for 18 years, she left home at the age of 13 to join a training center, continuing at CREPS in Montpellier before entering the professional world.

Now playing in National 2, "the highest level in Montpellier, apart from the pros," she has chosen a balance that allows her to combine her passion with her pharmacy studies.

Her most memorable moment? "It was three years ago, when we became French champions. We were playing against Bourges, we were down by two points, and I scored the three-pointer to win the game. It was the craziest moment of my life. Everyone was screaming, jumping... It was incredible."

Sports, an asset for academic success

This dual life is a real advantage in his academic career: "Sport helps me in my studies. Competing every weekend since I was six years old has taught me how to manage my emotions. I don't get stressed, whereas I see many people who are stressed even a month in advance."

This ability to handle pressure is an essential mental balance that she wants to share: "Honestly, keep going! Sport is really my escape. When I'm on the field, I completely forget that I'm in pharmacy, that there's a test the next day. With good organization, it can be done."

It was with this same determination that she chose her career path, inspired by the experience of a family member who was a pharmacist. "It's something I really enjoy. Being able to interact with patients and manage all aspects of medication treatment," she says. Attracted by this human dimension, she naturally plans to pursue a career in pharmacy when she specializes next year.