This past year, the school went beyond traditional classroom learning, preparing an eventful year of activities for undergraduate students. From collaborations with renowned cultural institutions to epic, hands-on excursions—the IE Community had access to rich humanities-inspired initiatives and events. Let’s reflect on this unforgettable year in humanities.
Classroom excursions: the art of hands-on learning
A common theme over the academic year was the high quality of learning opportunities outside the classroom, facilitated by the humanities-focused courses offered through the IE Impact program. By visiting places of cultural and anthropological significance, these learning experiences gave students valuable theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
Here are some standouts:
- Students from Professor Tierra McMahon‘s “Anthropological Approaches to Contemporary Worlds” course visited the Liria Palace in Madrid. This experience combined theory and application, presenting learners with authentic cultural and anthropological artifacts.
- The Prado Museum became an outdoor classroom for students in Professor Manuel Lucena Giraldo’s class “Revolutions: The Power of an Idea.” Not only did pupils explore the massive art collections, they also investigated the theme of revolutions throughout history prevalent in many works.
- Led by Professor Cristina Nualart, students from her “Image, Art and Power” course visited the Royal Palace of Riofrío in Segovia. During this time, participants engaged directly with the royal art collection to deepen their understanding of art and power dynamics.
Student-led initiatives: passionate leadership
Regarding high quality, student-led programs, last year saw major passion and leadership from the IE Community, with the IE History & Archaeology Club being no exception. In collaboration with IE School of Humanities, they organized 15 events throughout the course year.
Here’s just a taste of them:
- IE University students visited the Segóbriga Archaeological Park in the Spanish province of Cuenca. Visiting the former Roman city—one of Spain’s most important and influential archaeological sites—allowed students to investigate history in person.
- For some innovative historical analysis, undergraduates experienced an immersive “The Last Days of Pompeii” experience at Matadero Madrid. Through a virtual reality exhibition, students traveled to Pompeii in 79 AD, experiencing the city’s final days before the volcanic eruption.
- Tied to this, Professor Rubén Montoya hosted a launch event for his new book “Pompeii: A Roman City in 100 Objects.” In this manuscript, Montoya explores the anthropological significance of different items society used around the time of the volcanic eruption.
Students from the IE Arts & Business Club also showed incredible initiative, partnering with IE School of Humanities to organize events and discussions with renowned speakers in the world of humanities.
- Club presidents Anik Maiweg and Chiara Maruani, both Bachelor in Business Administration students, moderated a lively discussion during IE University’s annual Arts & Humanities Week. The memorable panel included special speakers, such as:
- Iciar Sánchez-Mangas, head of VIP Cultivation at Art Basel
- Alejandro Vergara, curator of Flemish Paintings at the Prado Museum
- Manuel Cirauqui, curator at the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum.
- A notable highlight was Fernando Botero Zea’s visit to IE Tower. During his lecture, the son of the acclaimed Colombian artist Fernando Botero discussed his father’s legacy. Moreover, he shared insights about the importance of heritage in art, providing profound insights and inspiration among attendees. Before the event, Anik was able to sit down with Botero for a chat to discuss his venture and hear his thoughts on pursuing a career in art.
Collaborative learning: partnerships with cultural institutions
IE School of Humanities constantly strengthens bonds with leading cultural institutions. Thanks to the institution’s close relationships with the Prado Museum and Teatro Real, scholars have unparalleled access to art and music.
- At the Prado Museum, students enrolled directly in art history courses taught entirely by museum staff. Topics included the Renaissance, Baroque, contemporary art and perspectives of the Prado Museum in the 21st century. Such synergy put students face-to-face with industry experts and surrounded them with world-class artworks.
- IE School of Humanities partnered with Teatro Real to offer students cutting-edge classical music initiatives. Together, they launched a four-part course, “La Universidad a Escena” (The University to the Stage). This program focused on expanding young people’s understanding and appreciation of opera and arts management.
Reflecting on a year of growth and discovery
Reflecting on these events, we can see why the humanities are central to IE University’s teaching approach. Accessible to all IE University students, these lessons in humanities promote critical thinking and creative problem-solving, and encourage a deeper appreciation of culture.
To cater to students seeking a more profound understanding of the field, IE University launched the Bachelor in Humanities—an innovative program that blends the traditional disciplines of the humanities with the latest technological advancements. In preparation for this upcoming academic year, IE School of Humanities looks forward to offering more enriching activities to students in humanities and other fields of knowledge.