Amanda speaks on her goals and her experiences thus far at IE University. Check out what she had to say below.
Why did you choose to study the Bachelor in Business Administration at IE University?
IE University was the only university I applied to because I knew it was the only place where I wanted to study! I’ve always wanted to study in Spain, but because I attended an international high school, I was looking for a similar atmosphere. The Bachelor in Business Administration was the perfect fit because of my entrepreneurial mindset and my goal to open a business in the future.
How was your experience been overall as an IE University Student?
Overall, my experience has been amazing. From my very first day at IE University, I knew I had made the right choice. To me, one of the best parts of IE University is the campus and its facilities, not to mention the social aspect—everyone is so open, and I love the multicultural environment. There are lots of opportunities, both personally and professionally, and professors really push you to learn and get the best education. The teaching methodology is also great since it uses an international approach which is brilliant for global opportunities.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities at IE University?
Yes, I am part of the IE University Madrid tennis team. I joined because I believed I could make a big impact and help the team move toward competing in more important tournaments. I also wanted to help IE University Athletics grow as a whole. I would love to help improve how seriously sports are taken in Spanish universities. A lot of excellent Spanish athletes decide to study in the US because their skills are usually taken more seriously and the universities offer more support. We have an amazing athletic department at IE University, and I believe that with time we can become even better and stand out for both our sports teams as well as our academics.
How did you first become involved in tennis?
When I was five, there was a young tennis coach living in my neighborhood. My older brother started training with him, and once I saw him practice for the first time, I told my dad that I wanted to play. When I started, I realized that not only did I really enjoy it, but that I was also good, so I began competing. Now, 14 years later, my tennis coach owns a club. I have been with him from the very beginning, so it’s been very motivating to watch him succeed. My uncle also owns a tennis club and is a great coach, so he encouraged me a lot. I can’t really explain why I love it so much—it was just something that came naturally to me, and I knew I wanted my life to revolve around it!
How has IE University Athletics helped you balance your tennis career and studies?
IE University Athletics has helped me to pursue both tennis and my studies in many ways. Being able to attend classes virtually has allowed me to compete in several tournaments—something I wouldn’t have been able to do without their help. For example, last year I had a mathematics exam around the same time as a tennis final. I talked to the professor, and she told me she would wait for me just so I could play the final. Because of her, I was able to win the tournament and pass my exam.
Thanks to IE University Athletics and IE University’s athletic director, Juan Barrio, I was able to compete in the Spanish University Tennis Championship and came in third place. Even though I was the only member of the team representing IE University, we still managed to make a great impact, which wouldn’t have been possible without their support. We’re looking to compete in more tournaments in the future.
What does a normal day look like for you?
A normal day for me is usually jam-packed. I’m great at multitasking and manage to train three hours per day, attend university, complete my assignments and make time for a social life. People have always marveled at how I manage to do everything I do, which makes me realize how much I’ve grown mentally—I’ve learned how to use my time wisely.
What advice would you give future students?
Never stop doing something you love, even if your circumstances make it difficult. You’ll always be able to make time for something you really want, and as long as you’ve got the determination, you’ll go far.