Alumni Interview: Pierre-Claude Dumeus

Upon graduation, HELP students have the distinction not only of joining the less than 1% of their peers to successfully complete a degree, but also of contributing to the reversal of Haiti’s notorious brain drain – over 90% of HELP alumni are employed locally, compared to just 16% of all Haitians who have earned a university degree in the last 50 years.

One such success story is that of Pierre-Claude Dumeus, a native of Camp Perrin in the hills of southern Haiti, who graduated from Quisqueya University with a degree in electrical engineering in January. Within just three months of defending his thesis at Quisqueya, (he designed a circuit board to restart electrical machinery after a power outage), Pierre-Claude was hired as a Field Operator at E-Power, a Haitian-owned electric generation company in Port-au-Prince. E-Power has also sponsored scholarships for three HELP students since 2012.

HELP talked recently with Pierre-Claude about his experience in the work world.

HELP: What was it like to transition from student to professional life?

Pierre-Claude Dumeus: It was both difficult and rewarding. On the one hand, there are new obligations and requirements to learn. On the other hand, working full-time allows me to be more economically independent. I think that I’ve managed the transition well. I’ve familiarized myself with routine operations and adapted to the new work schedule. And being one of the youngest people in my department has pushed me to put in my very best effort.

HELP: What were some of your greatest challenges during your university studies, and how did you face them?

Pierre-Claude: My biggest challenge was to finish my degree within five years, which meant completing all of my classes within four years and finalizing my thesis in 12 months. I was able to accomplish both of these goals while also maintaining a 3.5 GPA. In addition to studying very hard and my parents’ encouragement, the variety of support I received from HELP and my fellow HELP engineering students was really invaluable. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

HELP: How did your experience at HELP facilitate your entrance to the job market?

Pierre-Claude: My time at HELP, both as a student and an intern, helped me to become much more creative and proactive. My HELP internship strengthened my resume, and I learned about the job openings at E-Power through HELP’s Career Services Department. And the English skills I gained at HELP have proven to be an important asset.

HELP: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Pierre-Claude: I see myself as a more experienced professional continuing to work towards improving the situation in Haiti, particularly in the field of energy, which is a very important factor in social and economic development.

HELP: Any final words?

Pierre-Claude: Once again, I’d like to thank HELP for the scholarship and for the continued support provided to graduates. I’d also like to wish the current beneficiaries of the program the best of luck and great success!