The Young Corporate Program (YCP) embeds exceptional students in select organizations in a unique, apprenticeship-like experience. Available to our first-year single and second-year dual degree students, whether they’re studying in Madrid or Segovia, the four-year, high-impact intitaitive provides deep insight into the corporate culture and inner workings and culture of the world’s leading companies.
Participating students also receive mentoring from company executives, as well as an in-depth look at the daily realities of working at a particular organization. They’ll shadow a professional at the firm, typically for a week, to see firsthand what to expect from their future careers.
Building on experience
In the third year of the YCP, our students continue their experience with a summer internship in Spain or abroad. The final year involves producing a thesis based on their experience, following a theme approved by IE University and supervised by both a professor and a senior executive of the company they’ve been working with.
Given the intimate view participants get into top companies like Deloitte, KPMG, Perez-Llorca and at least 40 other sector leaders, it’s no surprise that getting into the Young Corporate Program is challenging. The selection process is highly competitive, and only a small percentage of applicants make the final cut. Luis Martínez Cortés was one of those successful applicants, and we spoke with him to get his insights on the experience.
A self-confessed perfectionist
Luis is studying the Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations. Describing himself as “restless, productive and creative,” he’s a highly ambitious student who typifies the driven high-performer that excels in the YCP. He was motivated to apply by the possibility of securing a prestigious internship, even before he had to as part of his program.
Now, as the fifth-year student watches others just beginning their internship journey, Luis is grateful for the chance to connect with the multinational professional services group, Deloitte, early on. And as he shared, it’s an opportunity that has recently turned into a job offer.
How would you describe your experience in the Young Corporate Program?
After going through this experience, I feel that the YCP ensures you learn how the professional world works from the beginning. This insight helps you stay a step ahead of your peers in the competitive job market.
How do you feel about receiving an offer from Deloitte before finishing your bachelor’s degree?
I was really grateful when I received my offer. I was also proud of myself for taking the initiative and completing the Young Corporate Program in time to enjoy this opportunity right now.
What skills or knowledge did you acquire from the YCP that helped you secure the Deloitte offer?
I’ve acquired real insight into how a consulting firm works directly from the perspective of Deloitte’s top professionals. With this behind-the-scenes look at the work that consultants do, I have a much better understanding of what clients need and how to build more beneficial relationships. All in all, the experience has given me a more realistic view of my future career.
Can you share a memorable experience from your time at Deloitte through the YCP?
The most standout moment for me was during the fourth year, when I had meetings with all the department heads at Deloitte. This process helped me get to know them better and decide which division I fit in most.
What advice would you give to other students considering joining the Young Corporate Program?
Apply right now! It takes only two seconds—just submit your resume, and perhaps in two years, you’ll also have an internship “for free.” This will help you avoid the stress of applying for an internship at thousands of companies in your last year.
Prepared to excel
Luis’s fantastic outcome exemplifies what the Young Corporate Program was designed for: to link outstanding talent with leading companies and launch some highly successful careers in the process. We’re delighted that he has secured an offer at a world-leading firm. If you want to follow his advice and benefit from this initiative, too, find more information here.