Name: Florence Angel | University: University of Toulouse Capitole | Course: Master’s in Innovative Information Systems | Location: France

Key Highlights:

• Choose a university that blends technical expertise with real-world industry access.
• French universities foster independent, systems-level thinking.
• Interning in aerospace tech requires both precision and perspective.
• Cultural adaptation abroad nurtures inner strength alongside academic growth.

In August 2024, Florence Angel left behind the familiar streets of Hyderabad to begin a new chapter in Toulouse, France. For the 25-year-old tech enthusiast, it was the start of a journey that would push her to grow as a developer, a systems thinker, and a global citizen. Now a Master’s student in Innovative Information Systems at the University of Toulouse Capitole and an intern at the aerospace startup Latitude, Florence finds herself at the confluence of code and cosmos.

“My journey so far has been life-changing, filled with learning, growth, and new beginnings,” she tells Global Indian. “From adapting to a new culture to contributing to real-world rocket projects, every step has added depth to both my personal and professional life.”

A childhood spark that led to Toulouse

Florence’s interest in technology began early, nurtured by watching her father work in the IT industry. What started as curiosity about his job soon turned into a deeper fascination with how software and data could solve problems at scale. Through academic and work experience in India, her interest evolved beyond just writing code. She began thinking more about how systems work together, how innovation is designed, and how technology can shape industries.

That’s what led her to apply for the Master’s in Innovative Information Systems at the University of Toulouse Capitole. “The program stood out because of its unique blend of software innovation, systems thinking, and strategic problem-solving,” she says. “It felt like the perfect fit for the kind of impact I wanted to make.”

France appealed to Florence for its robust academic ecosystem, emphasis on research, and a culture of independent learning. But Toulouse held a particular draw. Known as Europe’s aerospace capital and home to giants like Airbus and CNES, it offered not just a top-tier education but also proximity to real-world innovation in aerospace engineering. “I wanted a place where I could grow technically while also gaining a broader perspective on how technology supports large, complex systems,” she explains. “Toulouse seemed like the ideal setting to challenge myself.”

Taking flight with Latitude

It didn’t take long for that intuition to be validated. Not long after starting her Master’s, Florence landed an internship as a software developer at Latitude, a French startup developing Zephyr, a small satellite launch vehicle designed to democratize access to space. At Latitude, Florence is part of the team developing the missionization software that configures and customizes each Zephyr launch.

“My current project involves building a reliable, scalable database system to support the missionization process,” she explains. “Each satellite launch requires specific configurations, and the software we’re building ensures those are set up correctly and efficiently. Even as an intern, I’ve been trusted with responsibilities that have a real impact.”

Beyond her core work on the missionization tool, Florence is also involved in a broader internal project at Latitude: the development of a centralized data management system. It’s a behind-the-scenes initiative aimed at streamlining how departments across the company—engineering, operations, and beyond store share information.

“My role is to analyze the existing data flows and help design a unified structure that improves traceability and collaboration,” she says. “It’s early days, but it’s already taught me how important it is to think about long-term sustainability when building internal tools.”

Innovation, the aerospace way

Working at the intersection of aerospace and software has fundamentally shifted how Florence thinks about technology. In high-stakes fields like aerospace, even the smallest decisions carry weight. “It’s not just about writing clever code,” she says. “It’s about designing the right solution in a constrained, safety-critical environment.”

She’s learned to think beyond her screen about how software interfaces with hardware, how systems communicate, and how each piece fits into a larger mission. “True innovation, I’ve come to realize, doesn’t happen in silos. It happens when diverse disciplines come together toward a common goal.”

This holistic perspective has also been shaped by her academic experience in France. The education system at Toulouse Capitole differs significantly from what she was used to in India. “Here, the approach is much more self-directed and research-driven. We’re encouraged to ask questions, explore independently, and connect ideas across domains,” she says. “In India, the structure was more exam-oriented. This system gives you more freedom, but it also demands more initiative.”

A new academic culture

The Master’s program has proven to be more multidimensional than she expected. While the technical coursework is rigorous, the emphasis on strategic systems thinking has been a revelation. “I came in expecting to build on my technical foundations,” she says, “but I’ve also learned to approach challenges from a big-picture perspective.”

Group projects have played a huge part in that learning. Working with classmates from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds has not only enriched her understanding of technology but also improved her ability to collaborate in international teams. “Every person brings something different to the table. It’s like a real-world microcosm of global innovation.”

Living the French way

Outside the classroom, adapting to life in France has brought its own challenges and rewards. “In the beginning, things were overwhelming: the language barrier, navigating paperwork, even simple tasks like grocery shopping,” she recalls. “But over time, I’ve become more confident and resourceful.”

One of the cultural differences that stood out to her is how much the French value balance, in life, work, and even meals. “There’s a slower, more intentional rhythm to life here. People take time to enjoy their lunch, go for walks, and actually disconnect after work. That’s been a big shift for me, coming from a faster-paced environment. But it’s also taught me to slow down and be present.”

She’s found comfort in community, too. The Indian student group in Toulouse provided support with everything from finding housing to celebrating festivals. At the same time, she’s built strong friendships with international classmates. “That mix of familiarity and newness has made this experience really special,” she says.

The road ahead

Looking ahead, Florence is keeping her options open. While she’s excited about the possibilities within aerospace, she’s equally curious about other domains where her skills might be relevant. “This experience has shown me just how versatile software engineering can be. Whether I stay in aerospace or explore other sectors, I know I want to keep solving meaningful problems and building systems that support real impact.”

At the heart of her ambition is a desire to make technology more accessible and purposeful. “In the long term, I want to contribute to building systems that are not just technically robust, but also enable people to make better, faster, safer decisions,” she says. “Especially in high-tech sectors like aerospace, where precision matters deeply.”

Outside of work and studies, Florence enjoys exploring France one region at a time. From coastal towns to mountain villages, every place has its own charm. “Each region has a different rhythm, and I love discovering those differences whether it’s the local food, architecture, or just the pace of life.”

She also finds joy in the everyday—long walks by the river, discovering cozy cafés, or spending unhurried evenings with friends. “Those little moments like watching a sunset or stumbling upon a street performance often end up being the most memorable.”

Her advice to student abroad is simple yet effective. “Believe that you belong here. It’s okay to feel unsure at first, new countries, languages, and systems can be overwhelming but growth often starts with that discomfort. Be open, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it. You’re not alone.”

Florence’s journey from Hyderabad to Toulouse is a reflection of what’s possible when passion meets opportunity and when one dares to dream beyond borders. With focus and determination, she is not just writing code but learning to build the systems that will power tomorrow’s innovations

• Follow Florence Angel on LinkedIn