# Driving Innovation > --- ## Pages - [Home - Español](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/es/home-espanol/): - [Home](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/): Find more information about what it means to be part of IE University. Here you can read stories about our students, our people and our community. --- ## Posts - [Scale-up trends in Europe: Lessons from the road (and why they matter to you)](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/scale-up-trends-in-europe-lessons-from-the-road-and-why-they-matter-to-you/): Explore scale-up trends in Europe, the best cities for scale ups in Europe, and European grants for startups you can’t miss. - [Why student volunteers win more than they give](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-student-volunteers-win-more-than-they-give/): Student volunteers create real social impact through IE’s Social Impact Lab and top volunteering opportunities for students. - [What is brand storytelling? It’s not marketing. It’s memory-making](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-brand-storytelling-its-not-marketing-its-memory-making/): Discover what brand storytelling is and how it turns products into purpose, with insights from Prof. Brian Hallett at IE University. - [Is a political science degree worth it in 2025?](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/is-a-political-science-degree-worth-it-in-2025/): Is a political science degree worth it in 2025? Discover what you can do with a political science degree in today's changing world. - [Tech startup trends 2025: Quiet revolutions, code alchemists and the return of the real](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/tech-startup-trends-2025-quiet-revolutions-code-alchemists-and-the-return-of-the-real/): Explore tech startup trends 2025—from bootstrapped brilliance to AI-fueled solo founders—reshaping entrepreneurship quietly. - [Study in Spain and the US: Fast-track your future across two continents](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/study-in-spain-and-the-us-fast-track-your-future-across-two-continents/): Study in Spain and the US with IE University. Fast-track your future with global degrees and career opportunities across two continents. - [What is cultural intelligence? Exploring how students learn to read the world](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-cultural-intelligence-exploring-how-students-learn-to-read-the-world/): What is cultural intelligence? Follow students exploring forms of intelligence, creativity and culture in context across the globe. - [These are best nature trails in Segovia](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/these-are-best-nature-trails-in-segovia/): Discover the best nature trails in Segovia—from Roman ruins to royal palaces—and explore scenic hikes just steps from the city. - [Social entrepreneurship: How you can do well and good at the same time](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/social-entrepreneurship-how-you-can-do-well-and-good-at-the-same-time/): IE Insights with Waya Quiviger explores social entrepreneurship through inspiring stories of social entrepreneurs creating impact. - [Alumni success stories: How two graduates turned curiosity into careers at Google and Microsoft](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/alumni-success-stories-how-two-graduates-turned-curiosity-into-careers-at-google-and-microsoft/): Discover student life at IE University alumni success stories and explore inspiring careers after IE University at top companies. - [Student life at IE University: How the word “yes” changed everything for one student](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/student-life-at-ie-university-how-the-word-yes-changed-everything-for-one-student/): Explore student life at IE University and discover how sustainability in business education shaped Julie’s global journey. - [Pitching to Atlético de Madrid in the IE Business Case Competition](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/pitching-to-atletico-de-madrid-in-the-ie-business-case-competition/): Students tackle sports marketing at the IE Business Case Competition, pitching growth strategies to Atlético de Madrid executives. - [Punch above your weight: How to choose the best business degree specializations](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/punch-above-your-weight-how-to-choose-the-best-business-degree-specializations/): Find the best business degree specializations for your future. Discover how BBSS and BCDM can shape the next best you. - [How to pick good extracurriculars for college without losing your mind](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-pick-good-extracurriculars-for-college-without-losing-your-mind/): Find good extracurriculars for college and unlock your best student life at IE University's vibrant Segovia campus. - [How do you become an entrepreneur? A step-by-step guide from the experts who’ve been there](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-do-you-become-an-entrepreneur-a-step-by-step-guide-from-the-experts-whove-been-there/): Wondering how do you become an entrepreneur? Learn real steps from Venture Ahead experts and grasp entrepreneurism meaning today. - [What can you do with a degree in the humanities? More than you think.](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-can-you-do-with-a-degree-in-the-humanities-more-than-you-think/): What can you do with a degree in the humanities? Explore top jobs in the humanities and why your skills are in demand. - [Architecture and sustainable design: Buildings that breathe, cities that think](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/architecture-and-sustainable-design-buildings-that-breathe-cities-that-think/): Discover how green architecture, biomimicry & sustainable design are reshaping cities with smarter, nature-inspired solutions. - [Brainy, bold and hired: Behavioral science jobs for students and graduates](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/brainy-bold-and-hired-behavioral-science-jobs-for-students-and-graduates/): Explore behavioral science jobs, famous behavioral scientists & UN careers. See how this degree opens doors worldwide. - [What is a custom GPT? How to create one, win a hackathon and maybe even build your own AI therapist](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-a-custom-gpt-how-to-create-one-win-a-hackathon-and-maybe-even-build-your-own-ai-therapist/): What is a custom GPT? Learn how to create one, explore GPT Hackathon projects & even try creating your own GPT for personal therapy. - [Suits, sneakers and spreadsheets: What business management in the fashion industry really looks like](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/suits-sneakers-and-spreadsheets-what-business-management-in-the-fashion-industry-really-looks-like/): Explore the real engine of style—business management in the fashion industry. Where strategy meets design, and brands are built. - [The humanities meet Basque culture on an IE University study trip ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-humanities-meet-basque-culture-on-an-ie-university-study-trip/): Explore Basque culture and what to see in Bilbao through the eyes of humanities students on a unique IE University study trip. - [Is a math degree really that hard? We asked students to find out](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/is-a-math-degree-really-that-hard-we-asked-students-to-find-out/): How hard is a math degree? We asked students why math is so hard—and why it might be the most rewarding choice you'll make. - [I thought I was visiting a robotics lab. Turns out, I entered the future](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/i-thought-i-was-visiting-a-robotics-lab-turns-out-i-entered-the-future/): Step inside IE University’s Robotics & AI Lab—where students build smart tech, sentient plants and the future of AI. - [The benefits of summer school: The most prestigious summer schools in Europe](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-benefits-of-summer-school-the-most-prestigious-summer-schools-in-europe/): Explore the benefits of summer school at the most prestigious summer school in Europe, offering academic growth and lasting memories. - [What entrepreneurs can learn from the music industry: Lessons from Primavera Sound’s Daniel Fletcher](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-entrepreneurs-can-learn-from-the-music-industry-lessons-from-primavera-sounds-daniel-fletcher/): Discover what entrepreneurs can learn from the music industry—innovation and resilience with insights from Primavera Sound’s Daniel Fletcher! - [How to make friends in college: Finding your people and building a community](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-make-friends-in-college-finding-your-people-and-building-a-community/): Wondering how to make friends in college? Discover easy ways to build a community in uni & thrive at IE University’s Segovia campus! - [IE University internships: applying behavioral science in real estate ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-university-internships-applying-behavioral-science-in-real-estate/): Discover how a real estate internship can unlock career opportunities in behavioral science—Isabel Perales did it at CBRE! #IEUniversity. - [What is Femtech? The industry reshaping women’s health](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-femtech-the-industry-reshaping-womens-health/): Discover what is femtech, explore top femtech companies, and find exciting femtech jobs. Learn more on IE’s Venture Ahead podcast! - [The power of a subtle push: how nudge theory shapes your everyday decisions](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-power-of-a-subtle-push-how-nudge-theory-shapes-your-everyday-decisions/): Discover what is nudge theory and how a tiny nudge can shape decisions. Explore nudge theory examples that subtly influence behavior! - [IE Marketing Day: 7 steps to success in luxury brand marketing](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-marketing-day-7-steps-to-success-in-luxury-brand-marketing/): Discover 7 steps to success in luxury brand marketing from an IE Business School alum & Louis Vuitton HR rep. Build your dream career! - [In Their Shoes: How one alumn is building a career in architecture](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/in-their-shoes-how-one-alumn-is-building-a-career-in-architecture/): Originally from South Africa and having graduated high school in Oman, Roché brought a unique international perspective to her Bachelor... - [Math and logic puzzles that will make you think twice](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/math-and-logic-puzzles-that-will-make-you-think-twice/): Boost your brainpower with these fun math and logic puzzles that challenge your reasoning and sharpen your problem-solving skills! - [How a semester in Finland transformed Marcelo’s perspective](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-a-semester-in-finland-transformed-marcelos-perspective/): Discover how a semester in Finland transformed Marcelo’s perspective—new places, personal growth and life-changing experiences await! - [Quantum computing basics: Unlocking the power behind next-gen tech](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/quantum-computing-basics-unlocking-the-power-behind-next-gen-tech/): Discover quantum computing basics at IE University’s seminar—unlock the future of tech, AI and cryptography with expert insights. Learn more! - [What is quantum computing? How this mind-bending tech is changing AI and more](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-quantum-computing-how-this-mind-bending-tech-is-changing-ai-and-more/): What is quantum computing? Professor Irene Alda explains how it’s revolutionizing AI, cybersecurity and finance—faster than we imagined. - [IE Climathon 2024 explores ways to make your city more sustainable](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-climathon-2024-explores-ways-to-make-your-city-more-sustainable/): IE Climathon 2024 explores ways to make your city more sustainable with innovative solutions tackling urban and environmental challenges. - [The study-abroad effect: how a semester in Hong Kong changed one student’s outlook](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-study-abroad-effect-how-a-semester-in-hong-kong-changed-one-students-outlook/): A semester abroad in Hong Kong gave Alicia Vera Peña a new outlook on culture, confidence, and career aspirations. Could it do the same for you? - [Our students put their knowledge to the test in a unique business case competition ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/our-students-put-their-knowledge-to-the-test-in-a-unique-business-case-competition/): IE University students took on the challenge at a top business case competition in Mexico, solving real-world problems under pressure! - [Meet the students who represented IE University at the model NATO challenge in Italy](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/meet-the-students-who-represented-ie-university-at-the-model-nato-challenge-in-italy/): IE University students put their diplomacy skills to the test at the Model NATO challenge, tackling real-world security and defense scenarios - [IE Sustainability Datathon 2024: Empowering future innovators in sustainable tech](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-sustainability-datathon-2024-empowering-future-innovators-in-sustainable-tech/): IE Sustainability Datathon 2024 challenges students to solve real-world sustainability issues with data science and AI. Join the movement! - [A shortage of future political leaders: The importance of youth participation in politics](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/a-shortage-of-future-political-leaders-the-importance-of-youth-participation-in-politics/): Future political leaders must emerge, but youth participation in politics remains low. Discover why young voices are crucial for democracy. - [The EU on climate change: Chiara's experience at the UN Climate Change Conference](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-eu-on-climate-change-chiaras-experience-at-the-un-climate-change-conference/): Explore the EU’s climate action at the UN Climate Change Conference through Chiara Cassina’s experience at COP29 in Azerbaijan. - [Madrid music festivals in summer 2025](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/madrid-music-festivals-in-summer-2025/): Experience Madrid music festivals 2025 while attending IE Summer School—study by day, dance by night and make unforgettable memories! - [Daniel Kumlin: Finding his rhythm from Segovia to Madrid ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/daniel-kumlin-finding-his-rhythm-from-segovia-to-madrid/): From Madrid to Segovia, Daniel found balance between nature and city life, building connections and a future in tech along the way. - [Why I decided to study abroad for a semester](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-i-decided-to-study-abroad-for-a-semester/): Miranda Drummond shares her experience studying abroad for a semester at HKUST, enhancing her skills in computer science and AI while immersing herself in global culture. - [We partnered with top fashion brands to set you up for success](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/we-partnered-with-top-fashion-brands-to-set-you-up-for-success/): Top fashion brands are partnering with IE University to give students exclusive insights, hands-on experience and industry access! - [What does a productive summer look like? Noor Ayoub has the answer](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-does-a-productive-summer-look-like-noor-ayoub-has-the-answer/): Make it a productive summer by networking with experts and tackling global challenges at the BIE-OECD summer program! - [Why startup storytelling is the secret sauce for success](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-startup-storytelling-is-the-secret-sauce-for-success/): Learn what storytelling is & how brand storytelling can set your startup apart. Discover the power of startup storytelling for success! - [A look inside our Bachelor in Fashion Design with Michael Cheatwood](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/a-look-inside-our-bachelor-in-fashion-design-with-michael-cheatwood/): Explore the Bachelor in Fashion Design at IE University, where creativity, sustainability and business skills shape aspiring designers. - [From uni to Kroll: How José Luis built a career as a real estate analyst](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/from-uni-to-kroll-how-jose-luis-built-a-career-as-a-real-estate-analyst/): Discover how José Luis built a successful career as a real estate analyst by leveraging his hands-on education at IE University. - [Are IE University students leading the “sustainable fashion revolution”?](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-students-leading-the-sustainable-fashion-revolution/): Join the sustainable fashion revolution at IE University, where we empower students to create real-world change - [What’s It like working at L’Oréal? Just ask Olivia](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/whats-it-like-working-at-loreal-just-ask-olivia/): Discover what it’s like working at L’Oréal through Olivia’s journey, from global marketing to juggling her own ventures - [Young filmmaker and IE alumna Camila Barandearan releases award-winning short film](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/young-filmmaker-and-ie-alumna-camila-barandearan-releases-award-winning-short-film/): Camila Barandearan shares her experience creating award-winning short film "Where We Go Next" and offers advice for aspiring filmmakers. - [Andrea Caruso: Redefining interior design education at IE University](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/andrea-caruso-redefining-interior-design-education-at-ie-university/): Join Andrea Caruso, an internationally recognized designer, as he brings fresh ideas to interior design education at IE University. - [How to balance work and hobbies: The answer isn’t balance at all](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-balance-work-and-hobbies-the-answer-isnt-balance-at-all/): Discover how to balance work and hobbies by integrating your passions into personal and professional success. - [Ainhoa Busto is thriving at an international law firm: Here’s her advice for aspiring lawyers](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ainhoa-busto-is-thriving-at-an-international-law-firm-heres-advice-for-aspiring-lawyers/): Learn about IE alumna Ainhoa Busto’s journey at an international law firm and her top advice for aspiring lawyers. - [Coding for everyone: A look inside IE University’s inclusive coding community](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/coding-for-everyone-a-look-inside-ie-universitys-inclusive-coding-community/): Discover how IE Coding Club fosters an inclusive coding community, empowering students of all backgrounds to build tech skills and innovate. - [Sui x BSA Hackathon 2024 honors our students’ blockchain-powered ticketing solution](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/sui-x-bsa-hackathon-2024-honors-our-students-blockchain-powered-ticketing-solution/): University students shine at the Sui x BSA Hackathon 2024, tackling blockchain challenges with creativity and resilience. - [From blueprints to pixels: The synergy of architecture and video games](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-synergy-of-architecture-and-video-games/): Explore the synergy between architecture and design in video games, where creativity shapes immersive digital worlds and innovative gameplay. - [Leaders in responsible fashion: How we're weaving a more sustainable future](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/leaders-in-responsible-fashion-weaving-a-more-sustainable-future/): Discover how IE University and Pyratex are leading the charge in responsible fashion by blending sustainability, innovation and design. - [Beyond entertainment: Unlocking the future of video game design](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/beyond-entertainment-unlocking-the-future-of-video-game-design/): Explore the future of video game design and the new track that will transforms industries and inspire innovation at IE University - [The Academic Excellence Award: Maximizing your potential ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-academic-excellence-award-maximizing-your-potential/): Discover how the Academic Excellence Award unlocks opportunities, scholarships and an exclusive community at IE University. - [EdTech 2024: How technology and AI are shaping the future of education](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/edtech-2024-how-technology-and-ai-are-shaping-the-future-of-education/): Explore how AI in education and immersive technology are is transforming learning and fostering innovation. - [The classroom flip: Student-led learning and the power of...dance?](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-classroom-flip-student-led-learning-and-the-power-of-dance/): Discover how student-led learning turns traditional teaching on its head with creativity, empowerment and even dance-offs in the classroom. - [Can entrepreneurship be taught? Why failure is part of the curriculum at IE University](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/can-entrepreneurship-be-taught-why-failure-is-part-of-the-curriculum-at-ie-university/): Can entrepreneurship really be taught? Professors at IE University break it down. - [Want to make it in the fashion industry? The president of Adolfo Domínguez tells us how](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/want-to-make-it-in-the-fashion-industry-president-of-adolfo-dominguez-tells-us-how/): Discover how to make it in the fashion industry with insider tips from Adriana Domínguez and what qualities can set you apart! - [IEUMUN 2024: The international model UN where diplomacy meets community](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ieumun-2024-international-model-un-where-diplomacy-meets-community/): Discover how IEUMUN 2024 redefined international model UN conferences with debates, community and unforgettable moments in Madrid. - [The future begins with you: Designing sustainable fashion at our Fashion Studio and Textile Lab](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/designing-sustainable-fashion-at-our-fashion-studio-and-textile-lab/): Discover how conscious consumer choices and innovative design are shaping the future of sustainable fashion. - [Everything you need to know about IE Summer School—and how summer school in Europe can help your future](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ie-summer-school-and-how-summer-school-in-europe-can-help-your-future/): Discover how IE Summer School in Europe combines learning, culture and adventure to shape your future while exploring Spain. - [Top 10 things to do in Madrid before Winter](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/top-10-things-to-do-in-madrid-before-winter/): Discover the top things to do in Madrid before winter, from festive strolls to unique cultural activities. - [The International Baccalaureate: One way to study abroad in Spain ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-international-baccalaureate-one-way-to-study-abroad-in-spain/): Discover how the International Baccalaureate can prepare you for top universities in Spain with skills, credentials and a global mindset. - [IE University students featured in Dezeen: These are the top 10 projects](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-university-students-featured-in-dezeen-these-are-the-top-10-projects/): Discover how IE University students' creative designs were featured in Dezeen, the world's top architecture magazine. - [What is living in South Korea like for a foreigner?](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-living-in-south-korea-like-for-a-foreigner/): Living in South Korea: Gabriela’s journey through culture shock, local traditions and surprising moments of connection. - [Beyond the pitch: How our Tech Venture Bootcamp cultivates a new breed of innovators](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/beyond-the-pitch-how-our-tech-venture-bootcamp-cultivates-a-new-breed-of-innovators/): Experience the journey of IE University’s tech bootcamp, where students go beyond the pitch to build real-world skills. - [Learning by doing: Juan’s law internship story](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/learning-by-doing-juans-law-internship-story/): Juan Sanz’s law internship at CECA Magán Abogados offered hands-on experience in corporate law, showcasing the value of real-world learning. - [El impacto ético y legal de la inteligencia artificial en el derecho](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/es/el-impacto-etico-y-legal-de-la-inteligencia-artificial-en-el-derecho/): Descubre cómo La inteligencia artificial en el derecho está revolucionando la práctica legal y planteando nuevos retos éticos y profesionales. - [You can still vote in the 2024 US election (even if you live abroad)](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/you-can-still-vote-in-the-2024-presidential-election-even-if-you-live-abroad/): You can still vote in the 2024 election from abroad—here’s a short guide on how to make your voice count last-minute. - [The first student-managed investment fund in Spain was born here at IE University](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-first-student-managed-investment-fund-in-spain-was-born-here-at-ie-university/): Spain’s first student managed investment fund at offers students hands-on experience in managing capital to support future scholarships. - [Humanitarian crisis management: Inside IE University’s refugee camp simulation](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/humanitarian-crisis-management-inside-ie-universitys-refugee-camp-simulation/): Experience how our refugee camp simulation prepares students to tackle a humanitarian crisis, building critical skills and empathy. - [Inside our BIE-IFC summer program: paving the path for careers in sustainable finance](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/inside-our-bie-ifc-summer-program-paving-the-path-for-careers-in-sustainable-finance/): Our BIE-IFC Summer Program gives students a firsthand look into the impact of sustainable finance in developing countries. - [Guide: How to get a job at Google](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/guide-how-to-get-a-job-at-google/): Curious about how to get a job at Google? Learn about the hiring process and get tips from a student who landed her dream internship. - [The ultimate guide to social media detox](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-ultimate-guide-to-social-media-detox/): Discover how a social media detox can help you reclaim your time and boost your well-being with our quick and effective guide. - [What’s wrong with Spanish schedules?](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/whats-wrong-with-spanish-schedules/): Discover the history behind Spanish schedules, from midday naps to late-night dinners, and why geography plays a key role in its daily rhythm - [Best restaurants in Caleido Madrid](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/best-restaurants-in-caleido-madrid/): Explore the best restaurants in Caleido Madrid, where IE University students share their favorite spots from tacos to healthy bowls. - [Why an international experience can help launch your career](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-an-international-experience-can-help-launch-your-career/): Discover the life skills you can gain through an international experience, as shared by one of our students who did a year abroad. - [Success stories from IE University’s political science programs](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/success-stories-from-ie-universitys-political-science-programs/): Learn how a Bachelor in Political Science prepared Lucía and Paula for successful careers in international relations and policy. - [From school to the real world: Lucía's marketing internship](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/from-school-to-the-real-world-lucias-marketing-internship/): Student Lucía de Pablos reflects on her eight-month marketing internship, where she applied her passion for storytelling and digital media. - [Taking on the Big Apple at NYC Immersion Week](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/taking-on-the-big-apple-at-nyc-immersion-week/): NYC Immersion Week took IE Business School to New York City to meet top experts and tour the NYSE, the United Nations and Google - [Ana Di Filippo: Leading change through pro bono work](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ana-di-filippo-leading-change-through-pro-bono-work/): Discover how pro bono work can empower both marginalized communities and the young lawyers that serve them. - [AI and the future of work: A threat or an opportunity?](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ai-and-the-future-of-work-threat-or-opportunity/): Is AI automation a threat to your career or an opportunity for growth? Find out about AI's impact on the future of work, AI jobs and more. - [Designing your life: How interior designers shape more than just spaces](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/designing-your-life-how-interior-designers-shape-more-than-just-spaces/): IE University's Bachelor in Design: Interior Design track prepares future interior designers with the skills and business know-how to succeed - [Inside IE University’s Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design track](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/inside-ie-universitys-bachelor-in-design-comprehensive-design/): IE University's Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design track is a blend of creativity and business skills that guarantee student's success. - [How to become a video game designer: IE University’s new Videogame Design & Virtual Environments track](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-become-a-video-game-designer-ie-universitys-new-bachelor/): Calling all future game designers! IE University presents its new Bachelor in Video Game Design & Virtual Environments. - [Orientation Week 2024: Getting to know IE University in style](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/orientation-week-2024-getting-to-know-ie-university-in-style/): Discover the highlights of IE University’s Orientation Week 2024, where new students began their journey with exciting activities and events. - [What’s it like working for TikTok? Alexandra’s summer internship](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/whats-it-like-working-for-tiktok-alexandras-summer-internship/): Alexandra spent her summer working for TikTok. Hear all about the experience and the challenges she faced at het TikTok internship. - [Next-generation digital media pioneers: inside IE University's market-driven communication program](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/next-generation-digital-media-pioneers-inside-ie-universitys-market-driven-communication-program/): Creativity and business take center stage in the Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media at IE University. - [Ana Ocáriz’s internship journey | Stepping Up](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ana-ocarizs-internship-journey/): Ana Ocáriz at IE University applies her global experience and classroom skills as a Software Developer Intern at EY wavespace Madrid. - [IE Robotics & AI Club, where innovation and exploration meet](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-robotics-ai-club-where-innovation-and-exploration-meet/): Since its launch, the IE Robotics & AI Club has become a space for connection and collaboration, inspiring the creation... - [Connecting bright minds and leading companies in the Young Corporate Program](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/connecting-bright-minds-and-leading-companies-in-the-young-corporate-program/): The Young Corporate Program is is about building tomorrow’s leaders, connecting our brightest and most ambitious bachelor’s degree students directly with leading organizations in various sectors. - [New academic programs offer multiple pathways to success ](https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/new-academic-programs-offer-multiple-pathways-to-success/): These innovative additions to our undergraduate programs cement our thought leadership in design, innovation, business and public policy. --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages ### Home - Español - Published: 2024-11-19 - Modified: 2024-11-19 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/es/home-espanol/ - Tags: Español - : pll_673c73a21602f --- ### Home > Find more information about what it means to be part of IE University. Here you can read stories about our students, our people and our community. - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ - Tags: English - : pll_673c73a21602f DRIVING INNOVATION . jet-listing-dynamic-post-51418 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f:not(. elementor-motion-effects-element-type-background), . jet-listing-dynamic-post-51418 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . elementor-motion-effects-container > . elementor-motion-effects-layer{background-image:url("https://drivinginnovation. ie. edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Constanza-Ines-Montero-a-future-political-leader. jpg");}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f{--display:flex;--min-height:100vh;--flex-direction:column;--container-widget-width:calc( ( 1 - var( --container-widget-flex-grow ) ) * 100% );--container-widget-height:initial;--container-widget-flex-grow:0;--container-widget-align-self:initial;--flex-wrap-mobile:wrap;--justify-content:center;--align-items:flex-start;--overlay-opacity:0. 5;--padding-top:0%;--padding-bottom:0%;--padding-left:14%;--padding-right:0%;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f:not(. elementor-motion-effects-element-type-background), . elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . elementor-motion-effects-container > . elementor-motion-effects-layer{background-position:center center;background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:cover;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f::before, . elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . elementor-background-video-container::before, . elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . e-con-inner > . elementor-background-video-container::before, . elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . elementor-background-slideshow::before, . elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . e-con-inner > . elementor-background-slideshow::before, . elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-6b4da6f > . elementor-motion-effects-container > . elementor-motion-effects-layer::before{--background-overlay:'';background-color:#000000;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-f500fcb . elementor-heading-title{font-family:"Montserrat", Sans-serif;font-size:65px;font-weight:700;line-height:64px;letter-spacing:-0. 5px;text-shadow:0px 0px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0. 3);color:var( --e-global-color-bd564f4 );}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-f500fcb. ob-harakiri{writing-mode:inherit;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-f500fcb. ob-harakiri . elementor-heading-title{writing-mode:inherit;transform:rotate(0deg);}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-f500fcb. ob-harakiri . elementor-widget-container > div{writing-mode:inherit;transform:rotate(0deg);}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-f500fcb . elementor-widget-container{text-indent:0px;mix-blend-mode:inherit;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-f500fcb{width:var( --container-widget-width, 65% );max-width:65%;--container-widget-width:65%;--container-widget-flex-grow:0;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__instance{width:157px;height:50px;margin:0px 0px 0px 0px;border-style:none;border-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__state-normal{justify-content:center;padding:0px 0px 0px 0px;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__state-hover{justify-content:center;padding:0px 0px 0px 0px;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__instance--icon-top . jet-button__state-normal{align-items:center;justify-content:center;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__instance--icon-top . jet-button__state-hover{align-items:center;justify-content:center;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__instance--icon-bottom . jet-button__state-normal{align-items:center;justify-content:center;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__instance--icon-bottom . jet-button__state-hover{align-items:center;justify-content:center;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__container{justify-content:flex-start;}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__plane-normal{background-color:#FFFFFF00;border-style:solid;border-width:1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:var( --e-global-color-bd564f4 );}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element. elementor-element-3ef52de . jet-button__plane-hover{background-color:var( --e-global-color-bd564f4 );border-style:solid;border-width:1px 1px 1px 1px;border-color:var( --e-global-color-bd564f4 );}. elementor-49390 . elementor-element.... --- --- ## Posts ### Scale-up trends in Europe: Lessons from the road (and why they matter to you) > Explore scale-up trends in Europe, the best cities for scale ups in Europe, and European grants for startups you can’t miss. - Published: 2025-05-02 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/scale-up-trends-in-europe-lessons-from-the-road-and-why-they-matter-to-you/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: South Summit - Tags: English From late-night cocktails to billion-euro insights, here’s what Europe’s hottest startup cities are teaching the next generation of founders. Scaling your startup isn’t a glow-up montage—it’s more like a Netflix drama: high stakes, hard choices and plot twists at every funding round. And right now, scale-up trends in Europe are reshaping the story entirely. This year’s South Summit Scaleup Series, co-organized by IE University, hit Brussels, Milan, London and Oslo to dig into the latest scale-up trends in Europe. Founders, VCs, policymakers and the IE community showed up to spill the startup tea—sharing what’s working, what’s broken and what’s about to blow up. So if you’ve got a pitch deck on your desktop or just love the hustle of startup life, consider this your no-filter field guide to Europe’s scale-up scene. A look inside the South Summit Scaleup Series in Oslo The startup paradox: Europe starts strong, scales slow Europe is a startup machine. Seriously—IE University professor Joe Haslam pointed out that “Europe is creating more startups than the U. S. ” The issue? Not enough of them scale. At our Brussels event, Dr. Andreas Schwarz of the European Commission explained it best: “Europe is very good at creating startups, but not great at scaling up. ” Why? Cash crunches, risk-averse investors, and patchy support across borders. But the tide’s turning. “Investors globally want to invest in Europe,” said Yannick Oswald of Mangrove Capital. More funds are backing younger founders, more talent is coming home to launch, and yes—capital is flowing. The window’s open. Bold ideas in the making at South Summit Scaleup Series' editions in Brussels and Milan.... --- ### Why student volunteers win more than they give > Student volunteers create real social impact through IE’s Social Impact Lab and top volunteering opportunities for students. - Published: 2025-04-29 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-student-volunteers-win-more-than-they-give/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: IE Labs, social impact lab, Student Stories - Tags: English This is how doing good through IE University’s Social Impact Lab helps you grow, connect and stand out—on campus and beyond. Ever feel like you’re just clocking in academic hours, waiting for your “real life” to begin? Spoiler alert: it already has—and student volunteers are living it. Volunteering isn't just a feel-good side quest; it’s the secret sauce to unlocking new skills, forming real connections, and building a future that’s both meaningful and marketable. And here's the kicker: when you're a student, time is limited but your impact doesn’t have to be. Volunteer work lets you invest your time into something bigger while stacking your resume with real-world experience, empathy and edge. Whether it’s tutoring kids, planting trees or consulting for a non-profit, student volunteers learn to lead, communicate, adapt and—yes—care deeply about the world around them. Volunteering: the ultimate classroom outside the classroom Some of the most meaningful lessons you’ll learn as a student won’t come from a textbook. They’ll come from real interactions—with people, problems and communities. Volunteering offers exactly that: direct exposure to real-life challenges that teach you how to lead, listen, collaborate and adapt. Student volunteers often find themselves developing key professional and interpersonal skills while doing work that matters. Organizing community events teaches project management. Mentoring builds emotional intelligence. Working with nonprofits hones problem-solving and teamwork. These are the same skills that employers value—only now, you’re learning them in a way that also helps others. Beyond the practical benefits, volunteering is also good for your health. Research has shown that volunteering can lower stress levels, improve mood and even enhance life satisfaction—especially for young adults navigating... --- ### What is brand storytelling? It’s not marketing. It’s memory-making > Discover what brand storytelling is and how it turns products into purpose, with insights from Prof. Brian Hallett at IE University. - Published: 2025-04-28 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-brand-storytelling-its-not-marketing-its-memory-making/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Communication and Digital Media, brand storytelling, IE Insights - Tags: English Inside the storytelling secrets of Professor Brian Hallett and the brands that get it right. Let’s skip the buzzwords. Brand storytelling isn’t about spinning a narrative—it’s about giving people a reason to care. The good ones don’t just get remembered. They get repeated. And if there’s one person who knows how to break this down without the usual fluff, it’s Professor Brian Hallett, director of the Communications Lab and storytelling Jedi at IE University. With clients like Cartier, MasterCard, and Hugo Boss in his back pocket, he’s spent years turning brands into stories—and students into storytellers. Here’s what he’s learned—and what he’s teaching. What is brand storytelling? Let’s start where most brands should: at the beginning. According to Hallett, brand storytelling isn’t about “how amazing your product is. ” That’s the fastest way to lose your audience. “Talking on and on about our products probably won’t engage our customers,” he says. Why? Because storytelling isn’t about you—it’s about your customer. Your story is how you help them solve a problem. Put simply: you’re not the hero of the story. They are. Your role? Be the guide. The Obi-Wan. The Yoda. The one who hands over the lightsaber and says, go change your world. That’s brand storytelling. Not a product pitch. A purpose path. Why do humans tell stories? It’s not just to entertain. It’s to survive. “Storytelling,” says Hallett, “is a unique, adaptive technology. ” We didn’t learn to talk just to chat—we did it to pass on knowledge. To share risks. Tools. Triumphs. We’re not the strongest animals. But we’re the best storytellers. And... --- ### Is a political science degree worth it in 2025? > Is a political science degree worth it in 2025? Discover what you can do with a political science degree in today's changing world. - Published: 2025-04-25 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/is-a-political-science-degree-worth-it-in-2025/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Political Science, Student Stories - Tags: English Understanding power in a world that's making less sense by the minute. Somewhere between the rise of viral conspiracy theories and governments arguing with memes, it’s fair to wonder: is a political science degree worth it in 2025? With the world feeling more unpredictable than a group project, it’s a question worth asking—and answering carefully. The truth is, political science isn’t just about memorizing how a bill becomes a law. It’s about understanding the invisible forces that move societies—the power plays, narratives, ideologies, and occasionally baffling decisions that shape the world we live in. As Beatrice Mensati, an IE University Bachelor in International Relations alumni who's currently working on her PHD in Political Science puts it, “Political Science teaches you about power, as well as the narratives and the forces that shape our societies. ” And if there was ever a time when societies needed a little more understanding, it’s now. What can you do with a political science degree? (Besides argue at Thanksgiving) If you’re worried that a political science degree only prepares you to win family debates, fear not. It’s actually one of the most versatile fields of study out there. Here’s a glimpse into possible careers in political science: Policy analyst. Diplomat or foreign service officer. Political consultant. Journalist or political correspondent. International development specialist. Public affairs manager. Legislative assistant. Academic researcher or professor. NGO or nonprofit manager. Intelligence analyst. In fact, the American Political Science Association notes that political science graduates are trained to "analyze complex information, think critically about societal challenges and propose evidence-based solutions"—skills that employers... --- ### Tech startup trends 2025: Quiet revolutions, code alchemists and the return of the real > Explore tech startup trends 2025—from bootstrapped brilliance to AI-fueled solo founders—reshaping entrepreneurship quietly. - Published: 2025-04-22 - Modified: 2025-05-05 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/tech-startup-trends-2025-quiet-revolutions-code-alchemists-and-the-return-of-the-real/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Entrepreneurship, Tech startup trends 2025 - Tags: English From basement builds to breakout ideas: Decoding the year’s quietest tech revolution Some revolutions arrive with fireworks. Others tiptoe in on rubber soles, whispered into Microsoft Teams channels or written in rust-stained code from a co-working space in Tbilisi. Tech startup trends in 2025 aren't so much spearheaded by unicorns—but by dorm-room dragons and bootstrapped beasts who build quietly, build small, and somehow still build better. Welcome to the era of micro-tech startups: compact, conviction-fueled companies that don't measure their worth in funding rounds but in the friction they eliminate from real lives. Less blitzscaling, more breadcrumb trails "Growth at all costs" is starting to smell like stale coffee in a VC’s WeWork kitchen. According to CB Insights, global venture funding fell by 42% from 2022 to 2023, and while the market is stabilizing, it’s also evolving. Startups are shifting focus from rocket-fueled user acquisition to sustainable, almost stubborn, impact. Today’s tech startup trends point to craftsmanship. Founders are becoming cobblers of code, stitching together systems that solve hyperlocal or deeply specific problems: like building AI to help Kenyan farmers predict soil health (Apollo Agriculture), or creating minimalist project tools used by thousands but built by a team of two (like Notion, in its early days). They aren’t scaling cities—they’re paving paths through them. The bootstrapped ballet In an age where AI can autogenerate websites, pitch decks, even basic code, the bar to entry has dropped through the floor. What’s rising instead? Ingenuity. Precision. Patience. Bootstrapped tech startups in 2025 are performing a delicate ballet: balancing cash flow with creativity, traction with... --- ### Study in Spain and the US: Fast-track your future across two continents > Study in Spain and the US with IE University. Fast-track your future with global degrees and career opportunities across two continents. - Published: 2025-04-21 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/study-in-spain-and-the-us-fast-track-your-future-across-two-continents/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Academics, Agreements, IENYC - Tags: English An academic adventure where ambition meets opportunity. Imagine starting your university journey in the cobblestone charm of Segovia or the buzzing streets of Madrid—then graduating under the iconic red-brick arches of New York City or the historic halls of Brown University. For students at IE University, this is more than a dream. It is a real, tangible path designed for those ready to race ahead in a globalized world. The world is shrinking, competition is rising and careers today are launched across borders, not just boardrooms. Choosing to study in Spain and the US with IE University’s exclusive programs could be the spark that lights a lifelong international career. IE University: Where global minds take root IE University has always attracted adventurous, ambitious students who see education as more than a local affair. With campuses in Madrid and Segovia, IE’s bachelor’s programs weave business, technology, law and liberal arts into a powerful, practical education. Students sharpen critical skills, embrace international perspectives and prepare to adapt to industries that change faster than a trending hashtag. But what if you could take that foundation and amplify it—by earning two degrees on two continents? For students in select programs like business administration, applied mathematics, computer science and more, the door to study in Spain and the US is wide open. Brown University’s PRIME program: Innovation, entrepreneurship and Ivy League prestige Through a unique partnership, IE University students can spend their final year at Brown University in the US, earning both their bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years.... --- ### What is cultural intelligence? Exploring how students learn to read the world > What is cultural intelligence? Follow students exploring forms of intelligence, creativity and culture in context across the globe. - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-29 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-cultural-intelligence-exploring-how-students-learn-to-read-the-world/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law and Economics - Tags: English A journey through palaces, politics and possibility. Some kinds of intelligence live quietly in the background. They don’t announce themselves with perfect scores or showy credentials. They appear in how someone adapts to a new city, or listens without interrupting. In knowing that the same gesture can mean three different things in three different places—and in asking why that matters. This is cultural intelligence. It’s the capacity to interpret, respond to and collaborate across cultural frameworks. Often abbreviated as CQ, cultural intelligence is a vital skill for navigating the complexity of today’s world. But it’s not something you acquire from reading a textbook. You learn it by moving through unfamiliar environments, by wrestling with ambiguity, by getting things wrong and trying again. In other words, you learn it the way IE University’s Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law & Economics students did: by putting culture in context. What is cultural intelligence? Cultural intelligence is the ability to function effectively across cultural environments. That might sound corporate, but in practice, it’s intensely human. It’s what helps a policymaker adjust their message for a different audience. What allows a lawyer to interpret a case through local precedent. What makes a student pause before assuming their way is the only way. For our students, CQ isn’t just helpful—it’s fundamental. These are disciplines that cross borders by design. So it makes sense that learning them should happen not just in classrooms, but in palaces, courts and city streets. That’s exactly what our students did. Thinking across perspectives: The exhibition Their first step... --- ### These are best nature trails in Segovia > Discover the best nature trails in Segovia—from Roman ruins to royal palaces—and explore scenic hikes just steps from the city. - Published: 2025-04-14 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/these-are-best-nature-trails-in-segovia/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: best nature trails in Segovia, Segovia - Tags: English 5 Scenic routes to breathe, wander and wonder. Feeling stretched thin by nonstop notifications and packed agendas? Swap your screens for sweeping landscapes, and trade in your schedule for a solid pair of sneakers. Segovia—famous for its Roman aqueduct, castles and roast suckling pig—has a wild side. A green one. Hidden just beyond its fairy-tale skyline are some of the most peaceful and picturesque nature trails in Segovia. Whether you're a casual walker or a full-on hiking boot devotee, these trails will feed your soul, stretch your legs and maybe even surprise you with a Roman ruin or two. And fear not, you won't be needing a car. 1. Walk the city walls Length: 9. 2 kmTime: ~2. 5 hours Start in the heart of Segovia and head outward—literally. This trail takes you along the city’s medieval walls, through the lush Clamores and Eresma valleys, and alongside the river that cradles the city’s old bones. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a light hike with maximum monument views. Think Alcázar vistas and cathedral silhouettes, framed by ancient stone and open sky. 2. Try a slice of the Camino de Santiago Length: 14 kmTime: ~4 hours No need to commit to a month-long pilgrimage to get a taste of the legendary Camino. This segment offers a manageable yet rewarding experience, leading to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Built in the 18th century for Spanish royalty, the palace and its sculpted gardens add a majestic pause to your trek. Bonus points if you pack a picnic... --- ### Social entrepreneurship: How you can do well and good at the same time > IE Insights with Waya Quiviger explores social entrepreneurship through inspiring stories of social entrepreneurs creating impact. - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-04-22 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/social-entrepreneurship-how-you-can-do-well-and-good-at-the-same-time/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Entrepreneurship, IE Business School, IE Insights - Tags: English Read real stories of people using purpose as their business plan. What if we told you that you don’t have to choose between profit and purpose? That doing good for society doesn’t mean sacrificing your bottom line? Welcome to the world of social entrepreneurship—where visionaries blend business savvy with deep compassion to build a better future. Professor Waya Quiviger, Professor of Practice of Social Entrepreneurship at IE Business School, has spent years exploring the intersection of innovation and impact. Her insights remind us that social entrepreneurs are not only disruptors—they can be healers, bridge-builders and boundary-breakers. As she puts it, “You can do well and good at the same time. ” Let’s take a closer look at what that means—and why it matters more than ever. https://youtu. be/6qYmbSK9Q7o? si=CwQN1MgFvo5k-LaX What is social entrepreneurship, really? At its core, social entrepreneurship is the art of using entrepreneurial strategies to solve social and environmental problems. These are people who don’t just chase profits—they chase progress. They build businesses that address real-world issues like poverty, education inequality, public health and climate change. And they do it sustainably. Unlike traditional entrepreneurs, who measure success in market share and ROI, a social entrepreneur prioritizes social impact. That doesn’t mean they ignore revenue—they just put people and planet on equal footing with profit. Social enterprise definition: The best of both worlds A social enterprise, by definition, is a business that exists to achieve a social mission using commercial methods. Think of it as a company with a conscience. It might sell products or services like any other business,... --- ### Alumni success stories: How two graduates turned curiosity into careers at Google and Microsoft > Discover student life at IE University alumni success stories and explore inspiring careers after IE University at top companies. - Published: 2025-04-09 - Modified: 2025-04-28 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/alumni-success-stories-how-two-graduates-turned-curiosity-into-careers-at-google-and-microsoft/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Alumni, IE Business School, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English Two bold journeys, countless lessons — and proof that the risks you take here can pay off in ways you never imagined. Some journeys start with a map. Others start with a backpack and a stubborn sense of hope. When it comes to student life at IE University alumni success stories, Telma and Yolanda are proof that both paths can lead somewhere extraordinary. IE University alumni success stories: Curiosity, courage and a few curveballs Telma, a Bachelor in Business Administration student, showed up at IE University with a wide-open mind and a suitcase full of questions. “I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do,” she says, laughing. “I just knew I wanted to explore, to learn as much as possible. ” She dove into the multicultural learning environment headfirst, stacking summer internships abroad like souvenirs—first in administrative sales, then at a Barcelona startup with the help of a Santander scholarship, and finally, all the way to Poland. Each experience added another brick to the bridge she was building toward the future. And then came the real kicker: fifteen days after handing in her thesis, Telma joined Google Dublin. No drumroll, no fireworks. Just a lot of hard work and what she calls “proving your abilities every single day. ” She adds, “It’s not about having perfect grades. It’s about showing up smart, staying sustainable in how you work, and not letting the fear of ‘not knowing’ slow you down. ” That, right there, might just be the unofficial motto of student life at IE University: jump in, get your hands dirty, and learn how to swim on the way down. Careers... --- ### Student life at IE University: How the word “yes” changed everything for one student > Explore student life at IE University and discover how sustainability in business education shaped Julie’s global journey. - Published: 2025-04-08 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/student-life-at-ie-university-how-the-word-yes-changed-everything-for-one-student/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: IE Business School, Student Stories - Tags: English One decision, endless directions: the unexpected path of an IEU student. Julie never imagined her future would involve fertilizer. Or that she’d spend a semester skiing between business classes. Or that Madrid—a city she hadn’t spent much time thinking about—would end up feeling like home. But then again, life has a funny way of surprising us when we step off-script. Four years ago, Julie Louise Ekjord left Norway to study a Bachelor in Business Administration at IE University. She didn’t know exactly what she was looking for, but she ended up finding a whole lot more than she expected: adventure, ambition and an international group of friends who now feel like family. The rhythm of student life at IE University Julie’s time in Madrid began like most student stories do—new city, new classmates, new nerves. But soon, life found its rhythm. Days filled with lively lectures, café cortados and late-night brainstorms. Weekends spent exploring hidden corners of the city or catching flights with friends to places that didn’t seem real until she landed. What stood out most? The people. “I’ve met friends from every corner of the world,” she says. “And they’ve become some of the most important people in my life. ” Her voice lights up when she talks about them—there’s no pretense here, just genuine connection. That’s the thing about student life at IE University. It’s as much about who you sit next to as what you learn. Conversations spill out beyond the classroom and into dinner tables, group chats and metro rides. While education is important, so is... --- ### Pitching to Atlético de Madrid in the IE Business Case Competition > Students tackle sports marketing at the IE Business Case Competition, pitching growth strategies to Atlético de Madrid executives. - Published: 2025-04-07 - Modified: 2025-04-22 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/pitching-to-atletico-de-madrid-in-the-ie-business-case-competition/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Bachelor in Business Administration, Competitions & Challenges, IE Business School - Tags: English Sports marketing is the new in-thing. As clubs search for fresh ways to connect with global fans, Atlético de Madrid is trying out an exciting, innovative approach. What happens when you mix business strategy, elite sports and some of the brightest student minds from across Europe? You get the IE Business Case Competition—an intense, one-week challenge where teams take on real business problems and pitch their solutions to actual executives. This year’s spotlight? Spanish football powerhouse Atlético de Madrid. Held in Madrid and Segovia, the competition gave students 24 hours to work on a real case study and present it to a panel of judges made up of Atlético execs and IE Business School faculty, backing up innovative ideas with sharp business insight. With company visits, team-building activities and lots of brainstorming, this experience was a deep dive into sports marketing—and a rare opportunity to connect with major industry players. https://youtu. be/HZsQZrCPd34? si=kIOi7C6DI0VMjFrj A real-life look at the world of sports marketing Atlético de Madrid isn’t just one of Spain’s top football clubs; it’s a globally recognized brand. Success in today’s sports world is not only measured in goals achieved. It's also in fan engagement, digital presence and brand expansion. With the sports industry booming and clubs competing for attention far beyond their home countries, the business side of the game has never been more important. This high-stakes practicality is what made the challenge so exciting. Competition participant Luka Poljak says, “The case-solving is a very valuable experience, where you learn a lot about time management and the company itself. ” Instead of working with hypothetical scenarios, you and your teammates pitch directly to professionals. You get... --- ### Punch above your weight: How to choose the best business degree specializations > Find the best business degree specializations for your future. Discover how BBSS and BCDM can shape the next best you. - Published: 2025-04-04 - Modified: 2025-04-08 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/punch-above-your-weight-how-to-choose-the-best-business-degree-specializations/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences, Bachelor in Communication and Digital Media - Tags: English Spoiler alert: It’s not about who can rock a blazer best. So you want to rule the business world, but you’re staring at university brochures like they’re IKEA manuals. Finance? Marketing? Business with a sprinkle of psychology? It feels like a game of academic roulette. Good news: picking the best business degree specializations doesn't have to feel like you’re defusing a bomb with oven mitts on. Why specializing is your secret weapon Some people think specializing at university is like ordering pineapple on pizza—a risky move that could haunt you later. Reality check: it’s actually your golden ticket. Choosing a niche isn’t putting yourself in a corner—it’s snagging the VIP pass while everyone else is stuck waiting in line. Specialized programs, like the Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences or the Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media at IE University, are laser-focused, real-world training camps. You won't just memorize management buzzwords—you'll understand human behavior, master digital storytelling and outsmart competitors who are still wrestling with their third PowerPoint template. How to sniff out your specialty 1. Stalk your strengths Are you the person friends call when they can't decode a cryptic text? Or maybe you're the human megaphone who can sell a ketchup popsicle to someone in white gloves? Your natural talents are neon signs pointing to your best business degree specializations. Communication whiz? Look into Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media. Psychology nerd with a love for market trends? A Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences might be more your thing. 2. Future-proof your dreams Here's the brutal truth: the... --- ### How to pick good extracurriculars for college without losing your mind > Find good extracurriculars for college and unlock your best student life at IE University's vibrant Segovia campus. - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-pick-good-extracurriculars-for-college-without-losing-your-mind/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Campus Life, Segovia - Tags: English A witty guide to winning at college life (with a special spotlight on our Segovia campus) Do you sometimes feel like picking good extracurriculars for college can feel like speed-dating hobbies? One minute you’re signing up for Debate Club because you "like arguing," and the next you’re committed to amateur fencing three nights a week. Blink, and suddenly you’re in five different clubs, haven't slept in days, and you're wondering why you thought salsa dancing was "low commitment. " But here's the secret: you don’t need to do everything. You just need to do the right things—the good extracurriculars for college that make you stand out, grow your skills and, frankly, keep you sane. First things first: how to choose good extracurriculars for college Ask yourself: what sparks joy and builds your resume? Good extracurriculars for college aren't about padding your LinkedIn with random buzzwords. They're about finding spaces where you actually want to show up—even on a rainy Wednesday after midterms. Here's the winning formula: Passion: Pick something you genuinely like. No one enjoys "volunteering" for something they secretly despise. Potential: Choose activities where you can level up. Leadership roles and tangible projects are gold. People: Surround yourself with ambitious, weird, wonderful humans. You’ll need them when finals hit like a freight train. Translation? Join the dance crew if you love it, but maybe also join the Entrepreneurship Club if you're eyeing a future start-up empire. IE University’s Segovia campus: small town, big opportunities Now, if you’re lucky enough to study at IE University’s Segovia campus (an actual Hogwarts, not kidding), you’ve got a playground... --- ### How do you become an entrepreneur? A step-by-step guide from the experts who’ve been there > Wondering how do you become an entrepreneur? Learn real steps from Venture Ahead experts and grasp entrepreneurism meaning today. - Published: 2025-04-01 - Modified: 2025-04-08 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-do-you-become-an-entrepreneur-a-step-by-step-guide-from-the-experts-whove-been-there/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Entrepreneurship, IE Business School, Venture Ahead - Tags: English Forget the fluff—here's your no-nonsense roadmap to entrepreneurism (meaning: building stuff that actually matters) featuring advice from top minds on the Venture Ahead podcast. Ever dreamed of swapping your 9-to-5 for a "build-my-dream" life? Wondering, how do you become an entrepreneur without crashing and burning harder than a bad soufflé? Good news — you don’t have to figure it out alone. Thanks to the incredible guests on IE University's Venture Ahead podcast, we’ve pieced together a real-deal, human-sounding blueprint for launching your entrepreneurial journey. https://youtu. be/7fXt20XoRA0? si=FJFWC5RezR7ZI0nH No fluff. No sugar-coating. Just solid advice from people who've actually done the thing. Let's roll. Step 1: Understand entrepreneurism meaning—and why it matters Before we even map the route, let’s define the vehicle. Entrepreneurism meaning? It’s the bold, relentless act of creating something valuable from scratch. It’s seeing a problem, rolling up your sleeves and saying, “Fine, I’ll fix it myself. ” Uri Levine, double unicorn founder of Waze and Moovit, says it straight: entrepreneurism is "value creation. " And the simplest path to value? Solve a real, painful problem. Not a maybe-someday problem. A right-now, please-help-me problem. If you’re not solving something that keeps people up at night, you're just building a solution in search of a problem. (And no one’s losing sleep over that. ) Step 2: Fall madly in love—with the problem, not the solution As Uri puts it, your problem needs to be your North Star. "If you focus on the problem," he says, "you make fewer wrong turns and build something people genuinely care about. " Quick test: If explaining your startup sounds more like a PhD thesis than a lifeline,... --- ### What can you do with a degree in the humanities? More than you think. > What can you do with a degree in the humanities? Explore top jobs in the humanities and why your skills are in demand. - Published: 2025-03-31 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-can-you-do-with-a-degree-in-the-humanities-more-than-you-think/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Humanities, Humanities - Tags: English Why a humanities degree might be your smartest career move yet. A humanities degree isn’t just about studying history, literature or philosophy—it’s about developing the skills that make a real impact in the world. Unlike fields tied to specific industries or job titles, the humanities don’t fit neatly into a single category. Instead, they offer something broader, a lens through which to think, create, question and connect. Trust me, there's plenty you can do with a degree in the humanities. What is the study of the humanities? Covering a wide range of subjects, this field involves understanding how people think, how cultures evolve and how meaning is created. Far from being a narrow path, a degree in the humanities opens doors to diverse careers where creativity, critical thinking and cultural insight are in high demand.   Forget the outdated “starving artist” stereotype. Today, humanities graduates are thriving in major companies, launching startups, leading creative teams and shaping strategies at major companies. Their ability to analyze, communicate and connect ideas is exactly what businesses and organizations need. A degree in the humanities doesn’t limit your future—it expands it.   And that’s not just theory. We spoke with our very own Meag Gardner—who holds a BA in Spanish Language & Literature and Translation Studies, an MFA, and a knack for making words work overtime. She's now an adjunct professor of Fundamentals of Writing and Conducting Research and Head of Brand Narrative at IE University (you might’ve unknowingly been a fan already if you’ve read this blog). "The humanities give you skills to excel... --- ### Architecture and sustainable design: Buildings that breathe, cities that think > Discover how green architecture, biomimicry & sustainable design are reshaping cities with smarter, nature-inspired solutions. - Published: 2025-03-28 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/architecture-and-sustainable-design-buildings-that-breathe-cities-that-think/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Architecture and sustainable design, Bachelor in Architectural Studies, IE School of Architecture and Design, Sustainability - Tags: English How green architecture design concepts are reshaping our lives—one wall, one window, one wild idea at a time. Let’s pretend buildings are people for the sake of my argument. Some are the aloof kind—closed off, cold, energy-draining. Others are that friend who always knows which way the wind’s blowing, literally. They listen, adapt and don't need to shout (or blast AC) to make you feel comfortable. Those are the buildings we need more of. The ones that show us what architecture and sustainable design can really do. This isn’t just poetic fancy. It’s a shift in how we think about design in the face of climate urgency. And in the words of the Dean of IE School of Architecture & Design David Goodman, who’s been helping students rethink everything from concrete to comfort: “We need to do more than sustain. We need to regenerate. ” https://youtu. be/_Q6u2qnPUus? si=aPHCPCEJf0v9Afty So—what is green architecture, really? And how can design help cities come alive? Green architecture is a way of designing buildings that actively reduce harm to the environment—through energy efficiency, low-impact materials and smart, climate-responsive thinking. But more than that, it’s about creating spaces that work with nature instead of trying to overpower it. It considers how buildings breathe, how they age and how they shape life around them. At its best, green architecture design concepts move beyond checklists and certifications. They ask bigger questions: How does this structure interact with its climate? How does it support the people who use it—and the planet that holds it? With that in mind, let’s rewind. Because some of the most effective sustainable... --- ### Brainy, bold and hired: Behavioral science jobs for students and graduates > Explore behavioral science jobs, famous behavioral scientists & UN careers. See how this degree opens doors worldwide. - Published: 2025-03-26 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/brainy-bold-and-hired-behavioral-science-jobs-for-students-and-graduates/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Behavior and Social Sciences, Behavioral Science - Tags: English From UX to talent strategy, behavioral science careers are everywhere—and they’re cooler than you think. So, you’ve got a thing for why people do what they do? You find yourself psychoanalyzing your dog, your boss, or the barista who misspells your name every single time? Congratulations—you might be destined for a career in behavioral science. And guess what? Behavioral science jobs are booming. We’re talking global impact, policy influence, UX wizardry and, yes, even opportunities with international organizations. Whether you’re a student hunting for purpose or a mid-career maverick craving meaning, behavioral science is where curiosity meets career. Let’s break down the brilliance, shall we? What can you do with a behavioral science degree? Short answer: a lot more than you think. Long answer: welcome to the Swiss Army knife of degrees. Behavioral science blends psychology, sociology, and decision-making into one powerful toolkit. Companies, governments, and NGOs are using it to shape everything from climate policy to shopping habits. Behavioral scientists help design better products, improve public health, reduce fraud, increase savings—you name it. And the behavioral science job market is buzzing Graduates from IE University’s behavioral science program have landed roles at Red Bull, Beway, Johnson & Johnson and BCG. Need more proof? Behavioral science jobs exist at places like Google, the UN, and even inside the sneaky-smart apps you scroll at 2 a. m. Alumni spotlight: Paula Trigo To see how far a behavioral science degree can take you, meet Paula Trigo Sánchez, a BBSS graduate making waves in human resources strategy. After graduating from IE University, Paula kicked off her career with... --- ### What is a custom GPT? How to create one, win a hackathon and maybe even build your own AI therapist > What is a custom GPT? Learn how to create one, explore GPT Hackathon projects & even try creating your own GPT for personal therapy. - Published: 2025-03-25 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-a-custom-gpt-how-to-create-one-win-a-hackathon-and-maybe-even-build-your-own-ai-therapist/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, Innovation & Creativity - Tags: AI, Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Competitions & Challenges, Events, IE School of Science and Technology - Tags: English What is a custom GPT? How to create one, win a hackathon and maybe even build your own AI therapist. Let’s get to it: What is a custom GPT? Imagine you had an intern who never sleeps, remembers everything you’ve ever said, and can summarize a 30-page PDF in six seconds. That’s a custom GPT: your own personalized version of ChatGPT, built for a specific task, tone or audience. Whether it’s explaining macroeconomics to your cat or crafting the perfect cover letter, your GPT does what you train it to do. And the best part? You don’t need to be a coding wizard to create one. I mean, I’m a journalism major with barely any technical background—and I used a custom GPT I built myself to create the header for this post. Could you tell? (Please say no). How to create a custom GPT in 5 easy steps Let’s break it down, IE-style: Start with a use caseIs your GPT a finance tutor? A wellness coach? A Shakespearean life advisor? Start simple. Define what problem it’s solving. Give it a personaIs it formal or friendly? Analytical or empathetic? The personality shapes how it responds. Think of it as casting a character in your own personal AI play. Define the outputShould it write reports? Summarize notes? Generate questions? Be specific. Clarity is your best friend here. Feed it knowledgeUpload files, notes, PDFs, slide decks. This is where the magic happens—your GPT can "read" your materials and use them in responses. This is called RAG (retrieval-augmented generation), and no, it’s not a pirate term. IterateTest it. Ask weird questions. Tweak the instructions.... --- ### Suits, sneakers and spreadsheets: What business management in the fashion industry really looks like > Explore the real engine of style—business management in the fashion industry. Where strategy meets design, and brands are built. - Published: 2025-03-24 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/suits-sneakers-and-spreadsheets-what-business-management-in-the-fashion-industry-really-looks-like/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: business management fashion industry, Dual Degree in Business Administration + Fashion Design, Entrepreneurship - Tags: English And why the future of style needs strategy as much as it needs silk Let’s get one thing straight: fashion isn’t just about fabric. It’s not runways, red carpets or Paris in the rain. Fashion is logistics. It’s inventory headaches. It’s managing a global supply chain while TikTok decides what’s trending next week. It's business—chaotic, brilliant business. And that means the people shaping fashion’s future don’t just need mood boards. They need balance sheets. Welcome to the crossroads of creativity and commerce. Welcome to the fashion industry’s best-kept secret: business management. So what is fashion business management, really? Let’s put it like this: behind every sold-out sneaker drop or see-now-buy-now capsule is someone who did the math. Someone forecasted demand, crunched margins, negotiated contracts or reworked a supply chain mid-season. Business management in the fashion industry is the engine behind the glamour. It’s where design meets distribution, trend meets timing and aesthetics meet analytics. It spans pricing strategy, production planning, branding, retail operations and sustainability. It’s as much about knowing how to read a P&L as knowing why quiet luxury is having a moment. Business fashionistas who move markets Think business and fashion are oil and water? Tell that to: Angela Ahrendts, who turned Burberry into a digital-first luxury brand, tripled its value, and made trench coats cool again—before taking her playbook to Apple. Miuccia Prada, who transformed Prada from a family luggage business into a global fashion force, made nylon a status symbol and built Miu Miu as its rebellious little sister. Carmen Busquets, early investor in Net-a-Porter, who saw luxury e-commerce coming... --- ### The humanities meet Basque culture on an IE University study trip  > Explore Basque culture and what to see in Bilbao through the eyes of humanities students on a unique IE University study trip. - Published: 2025-03-21 - Modified: 2025-03-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-humanities-meet-basque-culture-on-an-ie-university-study-trip/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Bachelor in Humanities, basque culture, Dual Degree in Business Administration & Humanities, Humanities, IE School of Humanities - Tags: English Where art, identity and education meet in the heart of Northern Spain. Bachelor’s students in IE University’s humanities programs recently visited Bilbao on a study trip to discover the rich Basque culture and everything the famed riverside city has to offer. Those unfamiliar with the regional cultures and peoples of Spain may find themselves asking, “Who are the Basque people? ” Known for their deep pride in their homeland and their language, the people of Euskal Herria (“Basque Country” in the local language) possess a rich cultural heritage. The Basque Country is a coastal mountainous region in Northern Spain bordering France. The region’s major cities are Bilbao, Donostia-San Sebastian and Vitoria-Gasteiz. For much of its history, Bilbao was an industrial hub. In recent years, however, it has become a cultural center for architecture, urbanism and fine arts. Here, traditional Basque culture blends with modern tastes. Visitors can take in the sights while sampling Bilbao’s pintxos—the Basque take on Spain’s famous “tapas. ” What to see in Bilbao on a study trip Plaza Nueva Guggenheim museum Historic centre Zubizuri bridge IE University’s trip to Bilbao was first proposed by two students who wanted to see the temporary Hilma af Klint exhibition on display at the Guggenheim. It was made a reality with the support of humanities professor Daniel Valtueña. The group participated in a guided tour of the exhibition, as well as visiting the Guggenheim’s permanent collection and the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. The students saw firsthand the effect that the Guggenheim had on the city by boosting urban development and... --- ### Is a math degree really that hard? We asked students to find out > How hard is a math degree? We asked students why math is so hard—and why it might be the most rewarding choice you'll make. - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/is-a-math-degree-really-that-hard-we-asked-students-to-find-out/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Applied Mathematics, mathematics - Tags: English We asked first-year math students whether the rumors are true. Here’s what they said—and why that might not be the right question in the first place. The phrase “math degree” tends to cause one of three reactions: admiration, confusion or a full-body shudder. For many, it conjures an image of a lone student buried in equations, pale from fluorescent lighting and caffeine dependence. (Which, to be fair, is only partly exaggerated. Coffee is basically a course requirement. ) So: how hard is a math degree—really? Is it the academic equivalent of climbing Everest in flip-flops? Or are the rumors mostly drama from people who never met a theorem they didn’t fear? We asked two first-year students at IE University’s Bachelor in Applied Mathematics to get the inside scoop—and their answers might just surprise you. Wait, why is math so hard anyway? We’ll admit it. Math has a reputation problem. When did math go from this... ... to this? Leire Barba, a first-year double degree student in applied math and economics, knows that fear well. “I was scared it would be too hard,” she says. “But I wanted to try it anyway. ” Her friends and family were encouraging—though her high school experience had her bracing for endless computations. But university math isn’t just about crunching numbers. Just ask Leire: “The most important part is the understanding behind it. Once you get it, it’s one of the most satisfying feelings ever. ” Patricia Nistor, another first-year Bachelor in Applied Mathematics student, had a similar epiphany. Torn between economics and engineering, she realized math connected everything she loved. “The tangency was math,” she says. “It opens all the... --- ### I thought I was visiting a robotics lab. Turns out, I entered the future > Step inside IE University’s Robotics & AI Lab—where students build smart tech, sentient plants and the future of AI. - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/i-thought-i-was-visiting-a-robotics-lab-turns-out-i-entered-the-future/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, IE Robotics & AI Club, IE School of Science and Technology, Robotics & AI Lab - Tags: English A not-so-technical tour through IE University’s Robotics & AI Lab by a journalism major who still doesn’t know how to solder. If you, like me, have ever confused a Raspberry Pi with an actual pie, you’re in good company. I recently walked into IE University’s Robotics & AI Lab fully armed with curiosity, one pen and exactly zero engineering skills. My goal? Write a story. My fear? Accidentally press a button that launches a drone swarm. Thankfully, no robots were harmed in the making of this tour (and I didn’t break anything—unless you count my sense of reality). Because once you walk into this place, you quickly realize: this isn’t just a lab. It’s a preview of what the world might look like ten years from now—minus the apocalyptic robot overlords, hopefully. Before we go any further, a big shoutout to Professor Suzan Awinat, who generously gave me the tour. Suzan is not only a professor at IE University, but also a researcher whose work bridges AI, tech ethics and education. She walked me through the lab with the patience of someone who’s definitely explained LiDAR 1,000 times—and still made it exciting. Without her, I’d probably still be trying to figure out how not to trip over a robot base. Welcome to our Robotics & AI lab: Where students build the future one line of code at a time Opened in February 2023, the Robotics & AI Lab is tucked inside IE University’s School of Science & Technology, guided by the very futuristic-sounding Professor Eduardo Castelló (he came from MIT so, no pressure). The space is split in two: a learning... --- ### The benefits of summer school: The most prestigious summer schools in Europe > Explore the benefits of summer school at the most prestigious summer school in Europe, offering academic growth and lasting memories. - Published: 2025-03-17 - Modified: 2025-03-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-benefits-of-summer-school-the-most-prestigious-summer-schools-in-europe/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: IE Summer School, Summer programs - Tags: English Parents, discover how sending your child to a top summer program can foster academic growth, personal development and lasting memories in a safe, enriching environment. The last bell of the academic year signals what is typically seen as a time for relaxation. But those driven young people who see university right around the corner may view the summer holidays as an excellent opportunity for both personal and academic growth. So, let's explore the benefits of summer school. For the most passionate and ambitious students excited to propel their education forward, we recommend one of the prestigious summer programs for high school students hosted by many top universities around Europe. These programs offer unparalleled opportunities to learn, meet people from around the world and explore European history and culture—all in a safe, supported environment. Why do people go to summer school? Well, prestigious summer schools at European universities expose young people to a diverse international community of peers and offer many academic and career advantages. This is a great chance to have an inside look at university life. These summer programs provide a gradual introduction to university-level subjects that are typically outside the normal high school curriculum. For example, the Pre-University Summer Program at IE University provides classes and workshops covering entrepreneurship, tech and sustainability. Students in summer school programs get to learn from real professors and be exposed to ideas that can help them decide on their future study or career path. Summer school programs are also great for developing soft skills like team formation, problem-solving and critical thinking through dynamic, hands-on learning with a diverse cohort. Participating in these courses demonstrates a commitment to... --- ### What entrepreneurs can learn from the music industry: Lessons from Primavera Sound’s Daniel Fletcher > Discover what entrepreneurs can learn from the music industry—innovation and resilience with insights from Primavera Sound’s Daniel Fletcher! - Published: 2025-03-14 - Modified: 2025-03-16 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-entrepreneurs-can-learn-from-the-music-industry-lessons-from-primavera-sounds-daniel-fletcher/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Dual Degree in Business Administration & Humanities, Entrepreneurship, Venture Ahead, What entrepreneurs can learn from the music industry - Tags: English Daniel Fletcher shares insights on innovation, resilience and the power of blending digital and real-world experiences to thrive in a fast-changing industry. Music is an art that has been around since ancient times, but the way the music industry works today is in evolution. Traditional models for success in music have been upended in the digital era. This means that anyone interested in diving into this exciting, fast-paced world needs to be agile, innovative and up-to-date. Access to streaming and seemingly endless content online has changed consumption patterns, but the popularity of live music persists. Live music sales have continued to soar since 2022, and festivals like Coachella, Tomorrowland and Glastonbury regularly sell out months in advance. Since its founding in 2001, Primavera Sound has become one of Europe’s premier music festivals. Daniel Fletcher, Primavera Sound’s former CDO and CIO, joined us on IE University’s Venture Ahead podcast to talk through the current state of the sector. For anyone looking to learn how to make it in the music industry, he had some fascinating insights on trends to look out for and some likely challenges you’ll face. https://open. spotify. com/episode/1LkQboYwSuX0QOICcPLLe3? si=625437ed6c3748eb What entrepreneurs can learn from the music industry Embrace failure Great success is rarely achieved without some serious setbacks. While you’re probably eager to hit the ground running as a music industry professional, you should prepare to encounter a few roadblocks along the way. Daniel recommended embracing failure as a necessary part of the process. He believes “Failure is nothing to be ashamed of—it’s a learning opportunity. Each failure teaches you what doesn’t work and allows you to refine your approach.... --- ### How to make friends in college: Finding your people and building a community > Wondering how to make friends in college? Discover easy ways to build a community in uni & thrive at IE University’s Segovia campus! - Published: 2025-03-12 - Modified: 2025-03-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-make-friends-in-college-finding-your-people-and-building-a-community/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Campus Life, Campus Life|Student Services|Undergraduate Degrees, How to make friends in college, Segovia, Student Services, Student Services|Undergraduate Degrees - Tags: English Feeling lost in uni? You’re not alone. Learn how to make friends in college, build a strong community, and find your people—whether in class, clubs or unexpected places. Starting university is like stepping into an entirely new world—exciting, nerve-wracking and a little overwhelming. And for many students, the biggest concern isn’t coursework; it’s figuring out how to make friends in college. According to a study by the UK’s Office for National Statistics, one in four students report feeling lonely often or always. Research also shows that social isolation can negatively impact mental health and academic performance. But here’s the good news: making friends in uni is easier than you think, especially in a place like IE University’s Segovia campus where tight-knit communities flourish. The reality: You’re not alone in feeling alone Let’s be real: The first few weeks can be tough. Isabella Hillmeyer, a first-year student at IE University, remembers feeling the weight of the unknown. “The first few weeks, all the time,” she admits when asked if she ever felt out of place. “Nothing can really prepare you for starting this huge new journey. But I quickly realized that most people were in the same position which made me feel better. ” The key? Putting yourself out there. You don’t need to be the most outgoing person in the room—you just need to take the first step. It might seem like obvious advice, but it works. That could be attending an event, introducing yourself to someone in your dorm or even striking up a conversation in the cafeteria. Friendships don’t happen overnight but the effort pays off. So, we've put together a guide on how to make... --- ### IE University internships: applying behavioral science in real estate  > Discover how a real estate internship can unlock career opportunities in behavioral science—Isabel Perales did it at CBRE! #IEUniversity. - Published: 2025-03-11 - Modified: 2025-03-16 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-university-internships-applying-behavioral-science-in-real-estate/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences, Internships, Real Estate, Real estate internship, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English Isabel Perales found unexpected ways to apply her academic background, gaining hands-on experience in strategy, client insights and decision-making while shaping her future in the business world. If you’re looking for internship opportunities for behavioral science students, real estate may not be the first field that comes to mind. But Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences student Isabel Perales discovered the versatility of this program in her internship at real estate firm CBRE.   As part of our Stepping Up series, Isabel shares how her real estate internship provided fresh perspectives and new paths to success in the professional world. By tackling projects and working on client strategies, she had the chance to apply her academic background in behavioral science to real-world business situations. “I've been able to apply all the academic knowledge that I got at IE University directly to my work. It's also a two-way street, where I learn things at work to apply in my studies. It has made me a better student as well as a better worker,” Isabel shares. https://youtu. be/cBnEyGPiw6U? si=XPIsHaHPj3QbJwOf Her time at CBRE didn’t just teach technical skills. It also aided the development of the critical thinking and communication capabilities that are needed in the competitive world of business. The internship empowered Isabel to lead changes toward a better future and take control of her career path. Unlock career opportunities in behavioral science The Bachelor in Behavior & Social Sciences program at IE University offers a wide range of future career opportunities. Undertaking the program will ensure you’re equipped with the skills needed for internships and roles in a variety of fields: People consultant: Support HR transformation in organizations... --- ### What is Femtech? The industry reshaping women’s health > Discover what is femtech, explore top femtech companies, and find exciting femtech jobs. Learn more on IE’s Venture Ahead podcast! - Published: 2025-03-10 - Modified: 2025-03-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-femtech-the-industry-reshaping-womens-health/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Entrepreneurship, Femtech, Venture Ahead, What is femtech - Tags: English From groundbreaking femtech companies to exciting femtech jobs, discover how AI and innovation are reshaping women’s health worldwide. The global women’s health market is projected to reach $103 billion by 2030, and a major driver of this growth is femtech—technology designed to address women’s health needs. Yet, despite its potential, femtech still receives a fraction of the funding compared to other health tech sectors, reflecting broader disparities in investment. But change is coming fast, and femtech companies are breaking barriers to redefine the future of healthcare. Ida Tin, co-founder of Clue, coined the term “femtech” in 2016 to unify the growing innovations in women’s health. She recently shared her insights on IE University’s Venture Ahead podcast, discussing how the industry evolved and the challenges faced by femtech founders. https://open. spotify. com/episode/1wNheZs0xVxO8eZbLK2542? si=be7fc8c4a7394967 The rise of femtech: A movement, not a trend In 2016, Ida Tin, co-founder of the period-tracking app Clue, coined the term “femtech” on stage at TechCrunch Disrupt. She wanted a single word to unify the growing wave of innovation in women’s health. Fast forward, and femtech now covers everything from fertility and pregnancy tracking to menopause solutions and pelvic health. On a darker note—Ida Tin shared how she struggled to pitch Clue to male investors who didn’t fully grasp the importance of women’s health technology. “I would have to explain basic concepts about the female body before even getting to my business model. ” The tech industry was—and still is—dominated by men, making it challenging for femtech founders to secure funding. Yet, despite these barriers, femtech startups are thriving. More than 763 femtech companies have... --- ### The power of a subtle push: how nudge theory shapes your everyday decisions > Discover what is nudge theory and how a tiny nudge can shape decisions. Explore nudge theory examples that subtly influence behavior! - Published: 2025-03-07 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-power-of-a-subtle-push-how-nudge-theory-shapes-your-everyday-decisions/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Behavior and Social Sciences, Behavioral Science, Customer Experience, what is nudge theory - Tags: English Understanding consumer behavior and the influence of a subtle nudge. In today’s world, we are constantly influenced by our surroundings, probably more often than we notice or would even like to admit. But how much of that is by chance, and how much of that is intentional?   Think about the checkout lane at the grocery store—suddenly, you need that pack of gum or a chocolate bar you didn’t even know you wanted. Or look at your streaming site, an episode auto-plays before you’ve even made the choice to keep watching, and the next thing you know, you’ve binged the whole season. These examples are human behavior and social sciences at their finest. This concept is known as nudge theory—a subtle tactic that shapes your daily decisions, often without you even realizing it. What is nudge theory? The definition of nudge is a light touch or push, which is exactly what the nudge theory does. Nudge theory comes from the idea that small, seemingly insignificant changes in how choices are presented can markedly impact your decisions. It’s a technique for influencing daily behavior without overtly dictating your choices.   A famous example of nudge theory is the urinal fly experiment at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. The airport placed an image of a fly on the inner right side of the urinals to encourage men to aim more accurately. The result? A cleaner public toilet by influencing a behavioral change. It’s the very definition of a nudge in action. This approach taps into the unconscious part of your brain—the area that avoids... --- ### IE Marketing Day: 7 steps to success in luxury brand marketing > Discover 7 steps to success in luxury brand marketing from an IE Business School alum & Louis Vuitton HR rep. Build your dream career! - Published: 2025-03-05 - Modified: 2025-03-28 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-marketing-day-7-steps-to-success-in-luxury-brand-marketing/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Campus Life, Events, IE Business School - Tags: English Louis Vuitton HR rep shared her seven steps to success in luxury brand marketing at IE Marketing Day 2025. At IE University, we work relentlessly to give students opportunities to take their careers to the next level. From guest lectures to networking events, students can build their professional profiles and gain insights from top industry professionals. One such event is IE Marketing Day, a jam-packed day with top speakers, luxury brand marketing tips and industry updates. At the most recent edition of IE Marketing Day 2025, students had the invaluable opportunity to hear from speaker Inés Illes, a Louis Vuitton HR representative. As an expert in the luxury sector, Inés provided students with practical, actionable advice that can help shape their careers in marketing, particularly in the highly competitive luxury industry. We were able to attend a conference with Inés, where she shared her seven steps to success for aspiring marketing professionals. 7 steps to success in luxury brand marketing  1. Knowing your value  Self-awareness is important. It’s crucial to understand your strengths, weaknesses and motivations.   Identify environments where you thrive—whether it’s a fast-paced multinational company or a startup where you can experiment.   Be prepared for common interview questions like: “What’s your biggest strength or weakness? ”  Know your hard and soft skills to differentiate you from other candidates.   2. Building and owning your personal brand  Just like companies have strong identities, you need to establish and market your own brand. Think of it as an artist’s portfolio—it should clearly reflect your skills, experiences and values.   Here are a few ways to build your brand:... --- ### In Their Shoes: How one alumn is building a career in architecture - Published: 2025-03-04 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/in-their-shoes-how-one-alumn-is-building-a-career-in-architecture/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Architectural Studies, IE School of Architecture & Design, In Their Shoes, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English Originally from South Africa and having graduated high school in Oman, Roché brought a unique international perspective to her Bachelor in Architectural Studies at IE University before going on to build a global architecture career. Now an alum, her path to international architecture took flight when IE Foundation awarded her the Junior Advisory Board Scholarship, covering 80% of her tuition. This support transformed Roché's dream of studying abroad into reality and laid the foundation for her global career prospects. https://youtu. be/skC9GG7ZgNQ? si=1D8lzDl84PqeC-1w Roché's architecture internships During her undergraduate studies, Roché's understanding of architecture was shaped by both academic and practical experiences. For example, she completed four architecture internships over the course of the program, divided between the architectural industry and positions within the university itself. These hands-on experiences proved invaluable in bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice.   Beyond that, IE School of Architecture & Design enriched Roché’s education by bringing industry professionals into the classroom as both lecturers and jurors for project presentations. Such exposure gave Roché invaluable insights into the real world of architecture she would soon encounter.   In her opinion, IE University's support extended far beyond academics. The IE Talent & Careers team was instrumental in managing the logistics and legal requirements for her internships, while the student support teams helped Roché navigate some of Spain's complex bureaucracy. Today, Roché is working on a master’s program in architecture studies in Valencia. Since Spanish architects require a master’s-level education, this was a strategic move... --- ### Math and logic puzzles that will make you think twice > Boost your brainpower with these fun math and logic puzzles that challenge your reasoning and sharpen your problem-solving skills! - Published: 2025-03-03 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/math-and-logic-puzzles-that-will-make-you-think-twice/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Applied Mathematics, Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics, Logic - Tags: English How professor Rafif Srour is making math surprisingly fun. Ever spent way too long trying to solve a riddle only to slap your forehead when you finally hear the answer? That’s the magic of math and logic puzzles. They trick you, challenge you and, most importantly, sharpen your thinking. As Professor Rafif Srour, Academic Director of the Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics at IE University, explains, puzzles aren’t just for fun—they train your brain to think critically and make better decisions in real life. How math and logic puzzles train your brain Math isn’t just about numbers—it’s about patterns, reasoning and making sense of the world. As Professor Srour puts it, “Logic helps us structure our thinking. It's an essential skill for anyone analyzing data, making decisions or even just trying to win an argument with a friend. ” She draws inspiration from mathematician Eugenia Cheng, who argues that while the real world is messy and full of emotions, logic gives us tools to navigate it more effectively. Want proof? Let’s dive into some classic puzzles that show how math and logic shape our thinking. Puzzle #1: The muddy foreheads riddle Imagine a father tells his two kids, “At least one of you has mud on your forehead. ” He then asks them, “Do you know if you have mud on your forehead? ” The kids can see each other’s foreheads but not their own. The first time they answer, both say, “No. ” The second time, they both say, “Yes. ” Why? Each child initially sees mud... --- ### How a semester in Finland transformed Marcelo’s perspective > Discover how a semester in Finland transformed Marcelo’s perspective—new places, personal growth and life-changing experiences await! - Published: 2025-02-28 - Modified: 2025-03-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-a-semester-in-finland-transformed-marcelos-perspective/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics, Exchange|Student Stories - Tags: English Ever wondered what it’s like to drop everything and start fresh in a new country? It’s equal parts thrilling and terrifying—but always unforgettable. At some point, we've all dreamed of packing our bags, hopping on a plane and immersing ourselves in a completely different world. It sounds exciting, but beyond the allure of adventure, there’s something deeper—something that transforms you. Enter the exchange semester: an experience that doesn’t just change your location, but changes you. For Marcelo Moreno, a 23-year-old Bachelor in Data & Business Analytics student from El Salvador, this opportunity was a journey of self-discovery, academic growth and pushing past comfort zones. Let’s dive into how his exchange semester at Aalto University in Finland reshaped his perspective. A Conversation with Marcelo Moreno Why did you choose to participate in IE University’s international exchange program? "I wanted to explore new places, experience different cultures, and meet people from all over the world. But beyond that, it felt like an adventure I couldn’t pass up. When else would I have the chance to pick a country, move there, and see what happens? " Originally, Marcelo had his sights set on Australia, but logistical challenges made it difficult. Instead, he pivoted to Finland—a place he saw as completely different from Spain. How did IE University help you align a semester in Finland with your goals for the future? Taking a semester abroad can be daunting, but IE University made the transition seamless. "The application process was really straightforward, and the university made sure I took courses relevant to my degree. That was huge because not only was I exploring a new country, but I... --- ### Quantum computing basics: Unlocking the power behind next-gen tech > Discover quantum computing basics at IE University’s seminar—unlock the future of tech, AI and cryptography with expert insights. Learn more! - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-03-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/quantum-computing-basics-unlocking-the-power-behind-next-gen-tech/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Applied Mathematics, computer science, mathematics, quantum computing basics, seminars - Tags: English Quantum computing basics are shaping the future—how can students get ahead? IE University’s quantum computing seminar offered a firsthand look into this revolutionary field. Quantum computing is an emerging force set to redefine industries. With global investments surpassing $35 billion and market growth projections reaching $6. 5 billion by 2030, its impact is undeniable. But beyond the numbers, what does this mean for students and future professionals? Let's dive in to some of the quantum computing basics. IE University recently hosted an exclusive quantum computing basics seminar, led by Eduardo Sáenz de Cabezón, a distinguished mathematician and science communicator. Over two days, students explored the foundations of quantum mechanics, its mathematical intricacies and its real-world applications. Eduardo’s engaging approach transformed a seemingly intimidating topic into an accessible and thought-provoking experience. Eduardo Sáenz de Cabezón: Making quantum computing click Known for his dynamic and engaging approach to mathematics, Eduardo turned quantum computing from an abstract puzzle into an exciting challenge, bringing its complexities to life with clarity and enthusiasm. Covering quantum computing basics such as superposition, entanglement and quantum circuits, he led students through a journey from theory to application. For Lucas Portela, a first-year Dual Degree in Economics & Applied Mathematics student, the experience was a revelation. “Quantum computing is a completely different way of thinking about computation, and Eduardo made that crystal clear. He showed us how a quantum system can process information in ways that classical computers never could. ” First-year Bachelor in Applied Mathematics student Daveed Vodonenko, came in expecting a dense and inaccessible topic. Instead, he walked away with a new perspective. “I always thought quantum computing was impossibly complex,”... --- ### What is quantum computing? How this mind-bending tech is changing AI and more > What is quantum computing? Professor Irene Alda explains how it’s revolutionizing AI, cybersecurity and finance—faster than we imagined. - Published: 2025-02-25 - Modified: 2025-03-25 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-quantum-computing-how-this-mind-bending-tech-is-changing-ai-and-more/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Artificial Intelligence, Bachelor in Applied Mathematics, computer science, mathematics, what is quantum computing - Tags: English Professor Irene Alda knows quantum computing is a game-changer. From solving complex problems to pushing AI to new limits, this revolutionary tech is set to transform industries faster than we ever imagined. Professor Irene Alda has no doubt—quantum computing isn’t some far-off sci-fi dream. It’s happening now, and it’s going to change everything. And the numbers tell the same story. According to Fortune Business Insights, the quantum computing market is expected to reach $6. 5 billion by 2030, growing at a staggering 36. 89% CAGR. Meanwhile, Statista reports that global investments in quantum computing surpassed $35 billion in 2023. But what exactly is quantum computing, and how is quantum computing different from the systems we use today? More importantly, how will it impact fields like artificial intelligence, finance and medicine? What is quantum computing and how is it different? Think about how regular computers work. At their core, they use bits—tiny units of data that are either 0 or 1. Everything from emails to Netflix streams is built from these simple binary choices. Quantum computers, though, don’t play by the same rules. Instead of bits, they use qubits, which can be 0, 1 or both at the same time. It’s called superposition, and it’s what makes quantum computing a whole different ballgame. Another key concept is entanglement—when qubits become linked so that a change in one instantly affects the other, even if they’re miles apart. This gives quantum computers the ability to solve problems that classical computers would take centuries to crack. According to professor Alba: "Because of these properties, quantum computers will be especially useful for solving mathematical problems with a highly structured nature, such as optimization challenges, cryptography and complex... --- ### IE Climathon 2024 explores ways to make your city more sustainable > IE Climathon 2024 explores ways to make your city more sustainable with innovative solutions tackling urban and environmental challenges. - Published: 2025-02-24 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-climathon-2024-explores-ways-to-make-your-city-more-sustainable/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Competitions & Challenges, IE Climathon 2024, IE School of Economics Politics & Global Affairs, Sustainability, ways to make your city more sustainable - Tags: English With most people living in urban areas, the question of sustainable cities has come to the forefront of the innovation race. What are sustainable cities? And how do we work towards them? Students at the IE Climathon 2024 sought to answer these questions. Over half of the human population lives in cities today. While urban spaces are essential to the world economy, they produce 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This is probably because most cities weren’t built to be sustainable in the first place. Sustainable cities are places where innovation meets initiative to reach environmental goals. In doing so, these areas grow in ways that address social issues related to jobs, health, education, safety, and quality of life. By taking on urban challenges holistically, sustainability becomes a powerful tool for tackling social inequities. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the sustainability question. Instead, policymakers must adopt creative approaches to deal with the individual issues different cities face. One such initiative is the IE Climathon 2024, which brought students together to develop innovative urban solutions through public policy. Practical ways to make your city more sustainable Cities around the world face many common issues on the path to urban sustainability. For example, energy is one major point of contention as urban areas grapple with finding more eco-friendly ways both to produce and use it. According to the UN, modern-day cities use up to 75% of all energy derived from natural sources. Reducing energy consumption, making existing systems more efficient and changing individual behaviors are just a few measures that can be implemented to make cities more sustainable. Reusing and recycling waste energy can also help move the needle, as well as complementing traditional energy supplies with more renewable sources.   Besides ensuring energy... --- ### The study-abroad effect: how a semester in Hong Kong changed one student’s outlook > A semester abroad in Hong Kong gave Alicia Vera Peña a new outlook on culture, confidence, and career aspirations. Could it do the same for you? - Published: 2025-02-21 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-study-abroad-effect-how-a-semester-in-hong-kong-changed-one-students-outlook/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics, Exchange|Student Stories, semester in hong kong, Student Stories - Tags: English Ever thought about going on an academic exchange? Final-year student Alicia Vera Peña discovered the value of this international adventure when she spent a semester abroad in Hong Kong. I’ve been an IE University student for almost four years now, and I’m excited to be in the final stretch of my Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics. But this milestone has also got me thinking a lot about the future. Let me explain. I appreciate all the world-class experiences available right at my doorstep, but with my last year closing in, I knew I didn’t have much more time to step outside my comfort zone. So, I finally committed myself to going on an international exchange. Why did you choose to participate in IE University’s international exchange program? I come from Avilés, a town in the north of Spain. Growing up, I was always interested in learning about different cultures and meeting people from all around the world. Studying at IE University allowed me to do so from the comfort of my home country. But after hearing stories from my peers, I got more and more curious about how living abroad affected them. And as I approached the end of my program, I knew it was now or never—I had to take the chance and experience it for myself. That’s why I decided to study abroad in Hong Kong. Tell us more about your Hong Kong experience Alicia and her friends during a night out in Hong Kong When I was considering where to go for my international exchange, spending a semester abroad in Hong Kong sounded appealing. IE University already has partnerships with 200 universities in over 50... --- ### Our students put their knowledge to the test in a unique business case competition  > IE University students took on the challenge at a top business case competition in Mexico, solving real-world problems under pressure! - Published: 2025-02-19 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/our-students-put-their-knowledge-to-the-test-in-a-unique-business-case-competition/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: business case competition, Competitions & Challenges, IE Business School, Student Stories - Tags: English Read about Business student's experience at the 3rd edition of the Universidad Panamericana Business and Management Case Competition At IE University, we strive to give our students hands-on experiences that allow them to put theory into practice. Recently, we sent four students from our business and management programs to compete in the 3rd edition of the Universidad Panamericana Business and Management Case Competition. What are business case competitions? Business case competitions bring together teams of three to four students to solve problems for real-life companies. Winning strategies showcase strong business acumen, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Four students from IE Business School’s Business and Management programs recently traveled to the Universidad Panamericana Campus Guadalajara to compete in the Third Edition of the Business and Management Case Competition (BMCC). This edition’s theme was cultural enrichment. We recently caught up with Sondre Tostrup, one of the four students representing IE University at the BMCC in Guadalajara, to learn more about his experience. The BMCC: one of its kind in Mexico and Latin America The Universidad Panamericana Campus Guadalajara, host of the third edition of the BMCC, is the only university in Mexico and Latin America that holds this competition. This year’s edition saw 16 participating universities, with four student representatives from each. The judging panel was made up of 45 judges who scored and offered feedback to the competitors. The theme for this third edition of the business case competition in Mexico was cultural enrichment, with three cases from three companies: Chopo, Calaverandia and Club Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas). “During the week-long competition, we tackle three cases: two with our respective university... --- ### Meet the students who represented IE University at the model NATO challenge in Italy > IE University students put their diplomacy skills to the test at the Model NATO challenge, tackling real-world security and defense scenarios - Published: 2025-02-18 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/meet-the-students-who-represented-ie-university-at-the-model-nato-challenge-in-italy/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Competitions & Challenges, Dual Degree in Laws + International Relations, model NATO, Student Stories - Tags: English IE University students take on the Model NATO Challenge, navigating diplomacy, strategy and real-world security decisions. Fifth-year Dual Degree in Laws & International Relations students Arney Íris Esterardóttir Birgisdóttir and Sven Carlsen recently brought IE University’s passion for diplomacy to Forlì, Italy—a quaint and charming town just an hour from Bologna. Hosted by the University of Bologna in collaboration with NATO’s Allied Command Transformation, this two-day model NATO simulation challenged participants to address a critical question: should NATO invoke Article 5 in response to a cyberattack on a Member State? What is a model NATO challenge? Similar to a model UN, model NATO is an educational simulation that mirrors the decision-making processes of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Students assume the roles of diplomats from NATO member countries, engaging in debates, negotiations and crisis management exercises. This simulation brought together 32 students from prestigious universities all accross Europe — the University of Helsinki, Jagiellonian University and the University of Venice, to name a few. Representing NATO member countries, they stepped into the roles of diplomats and strategists. They navigated geopolitical interests and weighing the global implications of activating Article 5, NATO’s defining principle of collective defense. Participants engaged in debate and dialogue about the complex realities of cyberwarfare during a simulated meeting of the North-Atlantic Council. Meanwhile, a team of experienced NATO personnel moderated and provided valuable insights during the two-day long event.   The exercise was a deep dive into the intricate dynamics of international security and alliance-building. It gave Arney and Sven the opportunity to put their diplomatic training to use outside of the... --- ### IE Sustainability Datathon 2024: Empowering future innovators in sustainable tech > IE Sustainability Datathon 2024 challenges students to solve real-world sustainability issues with data science and AI. Join the movement! - Published: 2025-02-17 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-sustainability-datathon-2024-empowering-future-innovators-in-sustainable-tech/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Competitions & Challenges, IE School of Science and Technology, IE Sustainability Datathon 2024, Student Stories, Sustainability - Tags: English Data meets sustainability: Innovate, compete and drive change at IE Sustainability Datathon. Sustainability has become a driving force in technological innovation, particularly in data science and AI. With increasing global awareness of climate change and resource management, industries are leveraging data to create more sustainable solutions. From optimizing energy consumption to predicting environmental impacts, data science plays a pivotal role in shaping a greener future. In recent years, major technology firms have emphasized sustainability in their business strategies. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), data centers and AI infrastructure account for approximately 1% of global electricity demand, a figure expected to rise with growing reliance on machine learning and big data. As a result, sustainable coding and efficient data management have become essential for reducing the carbon footprint of technology-driven industries. What is a datathon? A datathon is an intense time-bound competition where teams analyze and interpret complex datasets to solve real-world challenges. Unlike traditional hackathons that focus on coding, datathons emphasize data modeling, machine learning and predictive analytics. These competitions have gained immense popularity in the tech world as companies seek innovative data-driven solutions to address pressing industry challenges. Inside the IE Sustainability Datathon 2024 The IE Sustainability Datathon 2024, hosted by IE School of Science & Technology, is a premier competition where participants tackle a sustainability challenge using predictive modeling. Sponsored by EDP, a leader in renewable energy, the event focuses on enhancing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for a more reliable and efficient clean energy transition. The event challenges participants to produce the most precise market forecasts for... --- ### A shortage of future political leaders: The importance of youth participation in politics > Future political leaders must emerge, but youth participation in politics remains low. Discover why young voices are crucial for democracy. - Published: 2025-02-14 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/a-shortage-of-future-political-leaders-the-importance-of-youth-participation-in-politics/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations, Student Stories - Tags: English Getting young people involved in politics is crucial for shaping inclusive and democratic societies. One IE University student shares her experience after attending a conference in Bucharest focused on youth participation. Globally, 15- to 24-year-olds make up a fifth of the population. However, in one out of every three countries around the world, you must be aged at least 25 to run for national parliament. In fact, the average age of members of parliament worldwide is much higher than that, at 53—and only 1. 6% are in their 20s. With these kinds of statistics, it’s not surprising that youth engagement and participation in politics are relatively low. At a European level, only 46% of eligible young people voted in their last elections. What’s perhaps even more concerning is that only 41% believe voting to be effective. This may mean a shortage of future political leaders, as many young people are convinced that they don’t have a voice. Why young people should be involved in politics That said, the proportion of young people voting has been steadily increasing. In 2014, only 28% of 16- to 24-year-olds voted in the European Parliamentary elections. By 2019, that number had jumped to 42%, showing clear interest among young people in shaping the future. Barriers like a lack of time and limited opportunities for political participation continue to hold back the tide. The first step to bridging this gap requires creating more platforms for meaningful engagement. From supporting young candidates to championing initiatives that connect youth to the political process. As young people become louder advocates for crucial issues like climate change, inequality and disinformation, their voices bring new perspectives and urgency to policymaking. Investing in... --- ### The EU on climate change: Chiara's experience at the UN Climate Change Conference > Explore the EU’s climate action at the UN Climate Change Conference through Chiara Cassina’s experience at COP29 in Azerbaijan. - Published: 2025-02-12 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-eu-on-climate-change-chiaras-experience-at-the-un-climate-change-conference/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Student Stories, Sustainability, UN Climate Change Conference - Tags: English The 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference brought climate finance to the fore of the global sustainability conversation. Here’s one IE University student’s experience of the event in Azerbaijan, where COP29 was set. Europe has always been a pioneer from the earliest days of the innovation race. Its regulation for the tech industry and online platforms are among the strongest on the planet, offering broad consumer protection. But besides safeguarding its citizens, the European Union’s approach also encourages competition and sets high standards that are replicated worldwide. The 2024 UN Climate Change Conference brought climate finance to the fore of the global sustainability conversation. As Europe continues to play a leading role in shaping climate policy, we’re going to unpack what the EU is doing to drive sustainability and explore Chiara Cassina’s experience at COP29 as an example of how these efforts play out on the global stage. The EU’s innovation landscape How does this have anything to do with climate change? Well, the European Commission recently released a glowing report on the region-wide growth of innovation. The numbers show that companies in the EU are developing cutting-edge advancements in products, processes and green technologies faster than ever before. At the same time, policies like the European Green Deal initiative provide a basis to align corporate interests with widespread climate action. By working to disconnect resource use from economic performance, the EU is set to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions before 2050. Meanwhile, the more recent European Climate Law, adopted in 2021, reaffirms member states’ collective commitment to reducing emissions and carbon neutrality. The result of this two-pronged approach? A vibrant, highly dynamic business ecosystem that puts sustainability first. Enabling policies stimulate... --- ### Madrid music festivals in summer 2025 > Experience Madrid music festivals 2025 while attending IE Summer School—study by day, dance by night and make unforgettable memories! - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/madrid-music-festivals-in-summer-2025/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: IE Summer School, Madrid - Tags: English Discover the best music festivals coming up in Madrid—plus free events to make your summer unforgettable! Madrid in the summer? It’s a rhythm all its own. The streets hum with life, terraces overflow with laughter, and the city transforms into a playground of music, energy, and late nights under the stars. But if there’s one thing that takes summer in Spain to another level, it’s Madrid music festivals. From massive international lineups to intimate garden concerts, there’s a beat for everyone. Whether you’re a die-hard festival-goer or just looking to catch a show or two, this summer’s lineup is stacked. And if you’re here for IE Summer School, let’s just say your nights are about to get just as exciting as your days. So, where should you be this summer? Let’s break it down. The best Madrid music festivals in summer 2025 1. Mad Cool Festival 📍 Venue: Nuevo Recinto Ferial de Madrid📅 Dates: July 10-12, 2025🎟️ Tickets: From €89 per day / €199 full pass🎶 Lineup Highlights: Kings of Leon, Iggy Pop, Olivia Rodrigo Big names. Massive crowds. Pure festival madness. If you want to see Madrid in full-throttle party mode, Mad Cool is the place. Three days of world-class performances, larger-than-life staging and an atmosphere that doesn’t let up. Whether you’re there for rock anthems, indie vibes or electronic beats, you’ll leave with stories (and probably a few blisters from all the dancing). 2. Puro Latino Madrid Fest 📍 Venue: Ciudad del Rock, Arganda del Rey📅 Dates: June 27 - 28, 2025🎟️ Tickets: Starting at €65 per day🎶 Lineup Highlights: Bad Gyal For lovers... --- ### Daniel Kumlin: Finding his rhythm from Segovia to Madrid  > From Madrid to Segovia, Daniel found balance between nature and city life, building connections and a future in tech along the way. - Published: 2025-02-10 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/daniel-kumlin-finding-his-rhythm-from-segovia-to-madrid/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Campus Life, From Segovia to Madrid, In Their Shoes, Madrid, Segovia - Tags: English Have you ever wondered why IE University is home to many winning startup ideas? One student says it is the perfect environment for entrepreneurs. As someone used to Monaco’s slower-paced lifestyle, joining IE University was quite the culture shock for Daniel Kumlin. He grew up in the second-smallest country in the world and spent the holidays boating and off-piste skiing around Sweden or fishing with his dad. So when he enrolled in the Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Daniel decided to spend his first year in Segovia—a picturesque historical town with the right environment to help him ease into big-city life before making the move from Segovia to Madrid. Daniel wanted to study in a familiar natural setting, and Segovia more than fit the bill. A famous UNESCO World Heritage site, Segovia is surrounded by lush, green landscapes, rocky bluffs and stunning views of the Eresma River. Also, “It's a lot less hard to meet people,” he told us. “Especially in a program like mine. This very low barrier to talking to new people and having a good time was really good for me. ” https://youtu. be/-uqdH0cU8W8? si=phzndKIqcnhyP-Ea Building connections that last from Segovia to Madrid  As a result, many meaningful connections were built during this first year. Those relationships have stayed strong, especially now that Daniel’s made the transition to learning at IE Tower in Madrid. As a major European city, life in the Spanish capital moves quickly, boasting a vibrant, dynamic feel that holds its own unique charm. Luckily, Daniel already had a built-in support system when his second-year classes started, which helped him navigate the challenges of settling in... --- ### Why I decided to study abroad for a semester > Miranda Drummond shares her experience studying abroad for a semester at HKUST, enhancing her skills in computer science and AI while immersing herself in global culture. - Published: 2025-02-07 - Modified: 2025-02-11 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-i-decided-to-study-abroad-for-a-semester/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: IE School of Science and Technology, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English My name is Miranda Drummond and I've always been fascinated by solving complex problems. This interest is what guided my choice to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science & AI at IE University. Over the past four years, I have deepened my expertise in algorithm optimization, system design and AI, continually aligning my studies with the broader implications of technology on global development.   Me and my friend horseback riding on the beach Recently, thanks to IE University's exchange program, I was able to complete a semester abroad at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Here, I have travelled, immersed myself in the local culture and made an array of like-minded friends. Additionally, I was able to immerse myself in research thanks to one of my professors here. I worked as a research intern essentially focusing on making Wi-Fi really fast! Naturally, I will now be using this research in my Bachelor's Thesis work. This international experience has not only enriched my technical skills but also expanded my perspective, allowing me to view technology’s role in society through a more global lens.   Why I decided to study abroad I was inspired to go abroad to broaden my educational and cultural perspectives. Having already lived in multiple countries and pursued a diverse academic path, studying abroad in Hong Kong seemed like a natural step. It provided me an opportunity to immerse myself in a dynamic, engineering-focused environment, which is crucial for my studies in computer science... --- ### We partnered with top fashion brands to set you up for success > Top fashion brands are partnering with IE University to give students exclusive insights, hands-on experience and industry access! - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/we-partnered-with-top-fashion-brands-to-set-you-up-for-success/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Fashion Design, Sustainability, Sustainable fashion, top fashion brands - Tags: English Want to learn from the best in fashion? We’ve teamed up with top brands to give you real-world experience, insights and industry access You might have heard this before if you’re a regular reader of our blog, but our Bachelor in Fashion Design is all about shaping a forward-thinking industry—one that champions sustainability, innovation and business excellence. That’s why we’ve teamed up with top fashion brands, as well as big names in luxury, consulting and sustainability. Our goal? Bridging the gap between education and real-world impact through collaborations that provide students with unparalleled insights, networking opportunities and hands-on experiences that shape both their education and the future of fashion. These are the top innovative fashion brands partnering with our Bachelor in Fashion Design Inditex: Leading global fashion If you’ve ever shopped at Zara, Bershka or Pull & Bear, you’re familiar with Inditex—one of the world’s largest fashion retailers. As of now, the fashion giant is collaborating with IE University to provide students with direct exposure to global supply chains and the latest innovations in fashion. Through workshops and mentorship, students gain firsthand insights into responsible production, circular economy strategies and digital transformation in fashion retail. Abbate: Tradition and textile excellence Abbate, renowned for its high-quality textiles, brings craftsmanship into the Bachelor in Fashion program. By working with premium natural fibers and sustainable production methods, Abbate demonstrates how traditional techniques can blend seamlessly with modern innovation, offering students an appreciation for heritage fabrics and ethical sourcing. Marlota: Minimalism with a conscience Marlota embodies the essence of slow fashion, focusing on minimalist designs and responsible production. This partnership introduces students to the importance of timeless... --- ### What does a productive summer look like? Noor Ayoub has the answer > Make it a productive summer by networking with experts and tackling global challenges at the BIE-OECD summer program! - Published: 2025-02-03 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-does-a-productive-summer-look-like-noor-ayoub-has-the-answer/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Economics, Dual Degree in Economics + International Relations|Dual Degrees, IE School of Architecture & Design, productive summer, Student Stories - Tags: English This is how you can enjoy a summer full of learning and travelling, while collaborating with a leading intergovernmental organization Summer is for traveling, trying new things, and making unforgettable memories—no debate there. But what if you could do this while also taking a step forward in your career and rubbing shoulders with leading industry experts? Here at IE University, we have a program to help you have a very productive summer. What's the BIE-OECD summer program all about? Students choose between three different topics to investigate: geopolitical risk, business investment attractiveness and the impact of industrial policies. During the program, students also get to visit the OECD headquarters in Paris and take part in different activities with leading economic and financial institutions. If you're unfamiliar, the OECD is an international organization that works to shape policies for better lives, providing data-driven insights and recommendations to help governments and businesses make informed decisions. Dual Degree in Economics & International Relations student Noor Ayoub took part in this summer’s program and shared his experience with us. Here’s what he had to say. What did you expect going into the program? I expected a challenging yet rewarding experience. I chose the geopolitical risk area, because it perfectly suited my interests given that I am a dual degree student of economics and international relations. And I’m really happy because this learning experience will be really useful going forward in my career. Can you tell us a bit about your research topic and what the workflow looked like? I analyzed the geopolitical risks that Nestlé, as a multinational corporation, faces in an interconnected and... --- ### Why startup storytelling is the secret sauce for success > Learn what storytelling is & how brand storytelling can set your startup apart. Discover the power of startup storytelling for success! - Published: 2025-01-31 - Modified: 2025-03-01 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-startup-storytelling-is-the-secret-sauce-for-success/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Entrepreneurship, startup storytelling, Venture Ahead, what is storytelling - Tags: English Great startups don’t just build products—they build stories that make people care. Learn how to craft a powerful narrative with insights from Waze’s Uri Levine. Humans love stories—this is a fact. For centuries storytelling has been the primary way of passing down knowledge, entertaining, educating and even healing. It’s woven into our very nature. But what does this have to do with startups? Everything. Welcome to our guide on leveraging storytelling to launch and grow your startup. We’ll break down what storytelling is, the emerging types of storytelling you need to know and why crafting an authentic brand narrative is essential. Bonus: We’ll be pulling insights from Uri Levine, the founder of Waze and Moovit and the first guest on Venture Ahead, IE University’s entrepreneurship podcast. https://open. spotify. com/episode/3IRkSXRZObcFM64oJY5BIg? si=DrsaIGmySxWmYXqrVOP5Ng So, what is storytelling? If you’ve ever listened to someone tell a ghost story around a campfire or binge-watched a Netflix series, you know what storytelling is. But in today’s world storytelling has evolved beyond entertainment—it can be a very effective business strategy. According to the National Storytelling Network, storytelling is the art of using words and actions to reveal elements of a narrative while engaging the listener’s imagination. This extends beyond traditional storytelling into different formats that cater to modern audiences. From digital storytelling that leverages multimedia tools to data storytelling that transforms numbers into engaging narratives, startups can use various storytelling methods to communicate their vision effectively. It’s more than just relaying information; it’s about making people feel something and connecting them to your message. And what is digital storytelling? Storytelling but online, right? Not exactly. Digital storytelling uses a mix of multimedia—videos,... --- ### A look inside our Bachelor in Fashion Design with Michael Cheatwood > Explore the Bachelor in Fashion Design at IE University, where creativity, sustainability and business skills shape aspiring designers. - Published: 2025-01-29 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/a-look-inside-our-bachelor-in-fashion-design-with-michael-cheatwood/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Fashion Design, Bachelor in Fashion Design|Sustainability, Fashion, Sustainable fashion - Tags: English Our academic director for the Bachelor in Fashion Design Michael Cheatwood tells us all about the program and even shares his recs for inspirational fashion movies Let me tell you about Michael Cheatwood, a man with a passion. A passion for shaping the next generation of creatives through an education that blends tradition with innovation. With an extensive background in fashion design, our academic director for the Bachelor in Fashion is passionate about shaping the next generation of creatives—those who aren’t afraid to experiment, take risks and redefine the industry, of course. Fashion = culture For Michael, fashion is a reflection of cultural shifts, identity and self-expression. That’s why our Bachelor in Fashion Design is built on four pillars: creativity, sustainability and social responsibility, technology and craft, and business. This unique approach ensures students develop a well-rounded skill set, preparing them to be both designers and changemakers. “Our program is really for students who see fashion as more than just garments. It’s for those who wish to use it as a tool to shape culture and influence the future. ” A very hands-on Bachelor in Fashion Design Fashion is best learned by doing, which is why this program is highly practical. Students work on real projects in state-of-the-art facilities, including our Fashion Studio and a Textile Lab, where they can experiment with growing plants for natural dyes and developing biomaterials. “Our goal is to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern technology,” Michael explains. “Students here learn everything from hand-stitching to digital fashion and AI-driven design. ” This combination of technical skills and creative freedom allows students to push the boundaries of what fashion can be. Through interdisciplinary... --- ### From uni to Kroll: How José Luis built a career as a real estate analyst > Discover how José Luis built a successful career as a real estate analyst by leveraging his hands-on education at IE University. - Published: 2025-01-27 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/from-uni-to-kroll-how-jose-luis-built-a-career-as-a-real-estate-analyst/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: career as a real estate analyst, Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations, Real Estate, Student Stories - Tags: English José Luis carved out a unique path, blending business and politics with hands-on learning to land a demanding role at Kroll. While his career keeps him on his toes, he balances the fast-paced world of real estate with his love for sailing and music. Here at IE University, we love to keep in touch with our alumni. We’re always curious to see where their journeys take them—especially when they land at top global firms. Meet José Luis Martín, whose passion for politics and business led him to real estate analysis at Kroll, one of the biggest names in the industry. For anyone considering a career as a real estate analyst, José Luis’s story is proof that the right education and work-life balance can open major doors. https://youtu. be/okJ_UtUyKVY? si=sW4eTkVKnYgDaAl9 He chose a case-based education When it came time to choose a university, José Luis wanted something different. He was looking for an education that would set him apart by helping him build a unique professional profile. IE University checked all the boxes. The Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations gave him the perfect mix of analytical skills and business acumen—and more importantly, access to a faculty of seasoned professionals who brought real-world expertise into the classroom. “My professors weren't just academics—they were professionals with lots of hands-on experience. And that made all the difference. ” It was this practical, case-based approach that challenged him to think critically and problem-solve in a way that more traditional education often lacks. He seized every opportunity he got José Luis knew that if he wanted to get ahead, he had to gain real-world experience early. That’s why he took full advantage of IE University’s professional connections and hands-on learning opportunities. He believes the competitive edge he... --- ### Are IE University students leading the “sustainable fashion revolution”? > Join the sustainable fashion revolution at IE University, where we empower students to create real-world change - Published: 2025-01-24 - Modified: 2025-03-26 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-students-leading-the-sustainable-fashion-revolution/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Innovation & Creativity - Tags: IE School of Architecture & Design, Sustainability, Sustainable fashion, sustainable fashion revolution - Tags: English We think so. Of course, we might be biased, so you be the judge If you’re a young person who’s not happy with the environmental state of the world you’ve been handed—you probably knew this already— but you’re not alone. In fact, 70% of the world's youth very worried about the climate. You might be sick of hearing the same empty promises about new sustainable practices, and we get it. Big ideas are great, but they’re meaningless without action. Here’s some good news though: we know someone who’s actually doing something about it. And yes, it’s our students. They’re not waiting for permission or perfect conditions and are now out there, making things happen. At IE University, sustainability is not a buzzword. It’s embedded into everything we do. From the simpler things like upcycling water bottles into something useful to designing the next wave of sustainable fashion (aka, leading the sustainable fashion revolution), our students are proving that change starts with action. So how are they leading this sustainable fashion revolution? Through cutting-edge fashion labs and green partnerships, basically. The Fashion Lab & Textile Studio is currently is flipping the script on an industry known for its wastefulness. Students here are working with big names like Ecoalf to create clothing that’s stylish and sustainable. Which is exactly what a sustainable fashion revolution should look like. Although unrelated to fashion, the ReBottle initiative is also worth mentioning. With the help of innovative tech, students turn used bottles into 3D printer filament for design projects. It’s clever, it’s practical and it’s making a real difference right... --- ### What’s It like working at L’Oréal? Just ask Olivia > Discover what it’s like working at L’Oréal through Olivia’s journey, from global marketing to juggling her own ventures - Published: 2025-01-22 - Modified: 2025-01-24 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/whats-it-like-working-at-loreal-just-ask-olivia/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Student Stories, Working for L'Oréal - Tags: English At IE University, we like to follow up. We always like to ask our more successful students (which we have no shortage of) about their fancy new jobs. Here’s Olivia’s story. When Olivia Głowacka finished her Bachelor in International Relations, she didn’t just walk away with a diploma—she walked into a dream job working at L’Oréal. And honestly? It’s as dynamic and exciting as you’d imagine. Olivia, a Polish-American entrepreneur from Chicago, now works in global marketing for one of the most iconic beauty brands in the world. https://youtu. be/IiN3py80PuU? si=a0SOK8cscECzMRg1 From IE University to L'Oréal New York Olivia credits much of her success to her time at IE University. “I was always drawn to IE because of its entrepreneurial focus,” she says. That entrepreneurial mindset was also something Olivia grew up with—both her parents run small businesses in Poland, and she spent her summers there soaking in the value of hard work. During her time here, Olivia dove headfirst into hands-on learning, taking full advantage of internships and real-world projects to build her resume. “What’s amazing about IE is how international it is,” she shares. “I had classmates from all over the world, and that really prepared me for my team at L’Oréal. ” A day in the life at L’Oréal So, what is it like working at L’Oréal? According to Olivia, no two days are the same. “It’s a really creative environment,” she says. Her role in global marketing requires her to collaborate with stakeholders across different continents, manage campaigns, and keep her finger on the pulse of the latest trends in beauty and fashion. “The pace is fast, but that’s what I love about it,” she adds. Olivia’s... --- ### Young filmmaker and IE alumna Camila Barandearan releases award-winning short film > Camila Barandearan shares her experience creating award-winning short film "Where We Go Next" and offers advice for aspiring filmmakers. - Published: 2025-01-20 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/young-filmmaker-and-ie-alumna-camila-barandearan-releases-award-winning-short-film/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Advice for aspiring filmmakers, Award-winning short film, Film, IE Alumni, Student Stories - Tags: English Camila Barandearan’s passion for storytelling and creative expression has led her to achieve remarkable milestones in her career as a filmmaker. Her first and award-winning short film “Where We Go Next” is a story about a woman struggling with grief that takes place in a world where angels of death guide peoples souls. https://youtu. be/ilzjiQn56pU? si=QIupM6Vad-2rxwrn A graduate of IE University’s Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media, Camila began to explore her interest in audiovisual production from the very beginning of her studies. We sat down with her to learn about her creative process, the obstacles she faced while filming award-winning short film "Where We Go Next" and her upcoming projects. Q: What inspired your award-winning short film "Where We Go Next"? A: The inspiration came from personal experiences and uncertainties I felt in my fourth year at IE. At the time, I was unsure about my future and felt lost, which was a central theme in the film. I also drew from the loss of my grandmother, the closest person I’ve experienced passing away. These emotions shaped the story, making it sincere and personal. Q: How did you balance writing, directing and editing your first original short film? A: The writing process was systematic. My video production professor encouraged me to test ideas through loglines before fully developing them. My initial idea was about someone walking and talking with death, which I then transformed into a script. I also researched storytelling frameworks like the Hero’s Journey and Save the... --- ### Andrea Caruso: Redefining interior design education at IE University > Join Andrea Caruso, an internationally recognized designer, as he brings fresh ideas to interior design education at IE University. - Published: 2025-01-17 - Modified: 2025-01-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/andrea-caruso-redefining-interior-design-education-at-ie-university/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bahelor in Design: Interior Design track, IE School of Architecture & Design, interior design - Tags: English Internationally acclaimed designer Andrea Caruso brings his expertise and passion for innovation to IE University. Here’s what he has to say about the Interior Design track and how it’s shaping the next generation of creative leaders. At IE University, we take great pride in our faculty, an assembly of great and diverse minds that have come together from all over the world to push the boundaries of traditional education. One such great mind is Andrea Caruso, the newly appointed Academic Coordinator for the Bachelor in Design: Interior Design track. Andrea comes with great professional experience and progressive thinking toward interior-design education. He truly epitomizes our mission here at IE University: shaping the responsible leaders of tomorrow through innovative knowledge delivered by an extraordinary team of scholars and industry experts. A legacy of excellence in design Andrea Caruso’s journey in the world of design began in Italy. It's no wonder this is where the rich heritage of craftsmanship and architectural innovation inspired his creative path. From Turin to Milan and eventually to Madrid, he honed his craft, working in many different disciplines and embracing design as a universal language. He cofounded Ciszak Dalmas, a Madrid-based design studio celebrated for its ability to blend traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. His work at the studio—spanning furniture, interior design and product design—has earned international recognition, reinforcing his belief in the transformative power of design. As Andrea, seen on the right side of the photo, says: “Design is about crafting experiences that resonate and endure. ” This professional experience translates effortlessly into his role at the IE School of Architecture & Design, where he channels this ethos into his teaching. Thus inspiring students to think beyond aesthetics and view design as a tool... --- ### How to balance work and hobbies: The answer isn’t balance at all > Discover how to balance work and hobbies by integrating your passions into personal and professional success. - Published: 2025-01-15 - Modified: 2025-01-16 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-balance-work-and-hobbies-the-answer-isnt-balance-at-all/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: How to balance work and hobbies, Student Stories - Tags: English Let’s explore how passion and profession can work together to take you further than you imagined. When you’re juggling academic deadlines or climbing the career ladder, hobbies can seem like an afterthought. Something to squeeze into your schedule when all the “serious” work is done. But what if your hobbies are actually the key to your academic and professional success? Sure, it can be hard to fit in a piano lesson when you’re working, studying or both. But the time and effort you invest in your hobbies are worth it. It’s not about balancing work and hobbies; they’re not opposing forces. Instead, hobbies can complement and even help your studies or career. While we’re not implying that they built entire careers on their hobbies per se, many well-known figures have leveraged their personal passions in their career. Steve Jobs, for instance, studied calligraphy in college, a pursuit that influenced Apple’s signature typography and sleek design. Similarly, Michelle Obama turned her love of gardening into a national movement promoting healthy eating habits. Even Serena Williams has channeled her passion for fashion into a thriving design career. Take Berta Rubio, for example, one of our Dual Degree in Business Administration and Humanities students, who has a story that illustrates this beautifully. Turning passions into opportunities Berta has been dancing since she was three years old and describes it as a way of life. Now a hip-hop teacher for IE University’s Dance Club, she uses her lifelong passion to connect with other students while she hones her leadership skills. “Teaching is something I’ve done for years, and I’m thrilled... --- ### Ainhoa Busto is thriving at an international law firm: Here’s her advice for aspiring lawyers > Learn about IE alumna Ainhoa Busto’s journey at an international law firm and her top advice for aspiring lawyers. - Published: 2025-01-13 - Modified: 2025-01-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ainhoa-busto-is-thriving-at-an-international-law-firm-heres-advice-for-aspiring-lawyers/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: advice for aspiring lawyers, IE Alumni, International law firm, Student Stories, Your Own Path - Tags: English An inspiring journey from university to a top international law firm, filled with lessons on determination, diversity and taking on the world of global law. Starting a career in law is no easy feat, especially if your goal is to work at an international law firm. It’s competitive, challenging and often unpredictable. But for Ainhoa Busto, now an associate at White & Case in Madrid, the journey has been worth it. A graduate of IE University’s Bachelor of Laws (LL. B. ) program, Ainhoa knows firsthand what it takes to thrive in the world of global law. Here, she shares her story and her best advice for aspiring lawyers who dream of building careers at international law firms. Where it all started Ainhoa’s path to one of the world’s top law firms began at IE University. Here, she was surrounded by classmates from all over the world from day one, learning to navigate different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. “At IE University, I learned how valuable diversity is—not just as a concept, but as a way to broaden your perspective. Working with people from different cultures and backgrounds prepared me for the realities of working at an international law firm. ” What life is like at an international law firm like White & Case Ainhoa found herself ready for the challenge of stepping into a high-powered international law firm like White & Case, known for its high-stakes cross-border cases and influential clients. “No two days are ever the same,” she says. “One moment, I’m working on a complex corporate investigation, and the next, I’m meeting with clients to strategize on international arbitration cases. ” Plus,... --- ### Coding for everyone: A look inside IE University’s inclusive coding community > Discover how IE Coding Club fosters an inclusive coding community, empowering students of all backgrounds to build tech skills and innovate. - Published: 2025-01-10 - Modified: 2025-01-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/coding-for-everyone-a-look-inside-ie-universitys-inclusive-coding-community/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Campus Life, Clubs, IE Coding Club, Inclusive coding community - Tags: English IE Coding Club is breaking down barriers to tech education, offering workshops, hackathons and a welcoming space for students at every skill level. From beginner-friendly projects to advanced coding challenges, there’s something for everyone to explore and grow. Student-led IE Coding Club breaks down barriers to tech education by making programming accessible to everyone—regardless of their degree or experience level. This inclusive coding community is transforming how students approach technology education, creating a space where anyone can learn essential coding skills. No matter the degree, most students at IE University will need programming skills at some point during their academic journey. To ensure future readiness and adaptability, IE Coding Club provides easy access to building skills in software development. From novices to experts, the group helps students build technology skills that can be applied to any career path. IE Coding Club: An inclusive coding community Today, IE Coding Club offers supplemental technology education opportunities to its participants. Throughout the year, the group coordinates informative workshops, hackathon events, company visits and support for tech enthusiasts. To better understand the club’s unique approach and varied initiatives, we sat down with co-presidents Laura Cuellar and Anna Payne to discuss their experiences and collective vision. How did you get involved with IE Coding Club? Anna: We both joined in our second year as event coordinators. It was the last two presidents who helped us get involved in coding and invested in our events, which we really enjoyed. When it was time for them to step down, they entrusted us with the leadership, believing we would be strong successors. Laura: The event coordinator positions gave us hands-on experience in organization, leadership and teamwork. Those are the kinds of skills that typically translate well... --- ### Sui x BSA Hackathon 2024 honors our students’ blockchain-powered ticketing solution > University students shine at the Sui x BSA Hackathon 2024, tackling blockchain challenges with creativity and resilience. - Published: 2025-01-08 - Modified: 2025-01-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/sui-x-bsa-hackathon-2024-honors-our-students-blockchain-powered-ticketing-solution/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, IEU Experience - Tags: Blockchain technlology, Competitions & Challenges, Hackathon 2024 - Tags: English From learning a whole new programming language to building an award-winning blockchain innovation in just two days, our students’ appearance at the Sui x BSA Hackathon was an exciting journey to success. At IE University, we encourage students to learn in a more hands-on manner. To that end, our students participated in the Sui x BSA Hackathon 2024, a premier event that invites learners from all over the world to address interesting, real-world challenges using Web3 innovations like blockchain technology and token-based economies. Where they could get some experience tackling actual problems—all while competing for various prizes. Behind the scenes at the Sui x BSA Hackathon The annual Sui x BSA Hackathon is organized by the Sui Foundation alongside the Blockchain Student Association (BSA). The Foundation fosters the adoption of Sui, the world's first-ever Layer 1 blockchain and smart contract platform. This was the event's second edition, and it took contestants to the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) in the lakeshore city of Lausanne, Switzerland. Over the course of two days, 22 participating teams materialized their best and techiest ideas incorporating new coding languages and complex blockchain technology. This grueling experience was filled with learning, team building and, most importantly, coding. But for our student team—and most participants in general—the biggest challenge was working with Move, the Hackathon’s programming language of choice. What is Move, and why haven’t I heard of it before? Move is an open-source programming language that allows developers to build platforms to manage and transfer assets and validate smart contracts quickly and securely. Sui has successfully enhanced the language to integrate with the Sui blockchain. As a newcomer to the industry, many professionals are still figuring out... --- ### From blueprints to pixels: The synergy of architecture and video games > Explore the synergy between architecture and design in video games, where creativity shapes immersive digital worlds and innovative gameplay. - Published: 2024-12-20 - Modified: 2025-01-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-synergy-of-architecture-and-video-games/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity, Learning & Academics - Tags: Architecture, Architecture and video games, design, Video games - Tags: English How creativity and technology come together to shape extraordinary virtual worlds When we think of architects, visions of skyscrapers, serene landscapes, or even intricate sets of Hollywood blockbusters come to mind. After all, some of the most memorable movie settings were created by the architect Ken Adams—think of those iconic evil lairs in Bond films. But what if we told you that architects are also carving a niche in the dynamic world of video game design? It might sound surprising, but it does make perfect sense when one looks closer.  A quiet symbiosis between video games and architecture has been blossoming. One in which both disciplines speak to each other through a shared language of creativity, design and immersive storytelling. Games such as Minecraft and The Sims will let you be the architect of your own worlds, while the architects themselves can help create stunningly realistic and imaginative game environments. Architects who went into game design Architects bring a unique perspective to the design of video games. Their training in spatial dynamics, materiality and lighting equips them to craft game environments that feel as immersive as they are visually striking. For example, Maria Elisa Navarro, an architect and academic, applied her expertise to ensure historical accuracy in the architectural landscapes of Assassin's Creed II. She helped bring Renaissance-era cities to life and gave players an authentic glimpse into history. Similarly, Jose Sanchez, the designer of Block'hood, created a game that resonates with the ecological complication of urban building. He combined an architectural background with his personal passion for sustainability. These architects—and many others—prove how their training allows them to dream up spaces that are not only... --- ### Leaders in responsible fashion: How we're weaving a more sustainable future > Discover how IE University and Pyratex are leading the charge in responsible fashion by blending sustainability, innovation and design. - Published: 2024-12-18 - Modified: 2025-01-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/leaders-in-responsible-fashion-weaving-a-more-sustainable-future/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Fashion Design, design, Fashion, responsible fashion, Sustainability - Tags: English IE University and Pyratex are teaming up to redefine sustainable fashion—one innovative fabric at a time Imagine walking into an outlet and holding a sleek jacket. The cloth is smooth and feels great to the touch, but it is neither wool nor polyester—it’s seaweed. Does that sound futuristic? Well, it’s called responsible fashion and it's already here. The fashion industry has come to a turning point-from unsustainable to innovative creation of textiles that will be functional and environmentally responsible. The Bachelor in Fashion Design at IE University lies at the heart of this revolution, nurturing a new breed of designers who will reshape the industry. However, this is not just a degree but a call to action for any person who has the passion for combining artistry with responsible fashion. So, whether or not fashion design study is relevant in a fast fashion-saturated, cookie-cutter-idea-driven world is indeed a yes. Let's find out why this program is one of a kind, how it takes on modern design challenges, and where this unique partnership with Pyratex comes into play. First off: What's keeping fashion design relevant today? Why get a degree in fashion when the trends move so fast? It's actually a lot more than just drawing pretty dresses and predicting what would be hot this season on the runway. The modern world of fashion design is deeply combined with technology, sustainability and culture. The Bachelor in Fashion Design meets this complexity by teaching its students to design both aesthetically pleasing and responsible designs. Graduates are not taught only how to cut fabrics or sew seams but study... --- ### Beyond entertainment: Unlocking the future of video game design > Explore the future of video game design and the new track that will transforms industries and inspire innovation at IE University - Published: 2024-12-16 - Modified: 2025-01-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/beyond-entertainment-unlocking-the-future-of-video-game-design/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Videogame Design & Virtual Environments, future of video game design, video game design, Virtual Reality - Tags: English Find out how video games are changing how we learn, heal and connect. What do a hospital, a classroom and a bustling retail store have in common? In 2025, they’ll all be using video games to solve real-world problems. The video game industry has grown beyond mere entertainment. In fact, it now influences areas like education, healthcare and even how we interact with others. Technologies like virtual and augmented reality are becoming more common. As a result, gaming is now a significant part of our digital world. This exciting evolution inspired IE University to launch its Videogame Design and Virtual Environments track within the Bachelor in Design. This big shift inspired IE University to launch a new track: Videogame Design and Virtual Environments. It’s part of their Bachelor in Design program, and to kick it off, they held an event with some of Spain’s top gaming experts to offer a glimpse into what’s possible when creativity and technology come together. Keep reading to find out more about the future of video game design. A launch worth leveling up for Held at the IE Tower, the event—aptly titled “From Classroom to Console: Preparing the Future Leaders of Videogames and Virtual Worlds”—featured a distinguished panel of industry experts, including: Félix Alberto Martín Gordo, Technical Director of Madrid In Game. Jose Raluy, Engineering Manager at Electronic Arts. Jorge Huguet Rodriguez, former CEO at PlayStation Iberia. Enrique Agudo, New Media Artist. Ruxandra Iancu, Computational Researcher and 50SuperReal Cofounder. The discussion explored the transformative potential of videogame design and its impact on industries. By the end of the... --- ### The Academic Excellence Award: Maximizing your potential  > Discover how the Academic Excellence Award unlocks opportunities, scholarships and an exclusive community at IE University. - Published: 2024-12-13 - Modified: 2025-01-16 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-academic-excellence-award-maximizing-your-potential/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Academic excellence, Academic Excellence Award, IE Fellows, Scholarships - Tags: English The Academic Excellence Award provides top talent with the opportunity to pursue their studies at IE University. At IE University, we view academic achievement as a reflection of hard work, dedication and ambition. The Academic Excellence Award (AEA) honors outstanding students by rewarding them for their work and offering them access to life-transforming opportunities. For many, receiving the AEA is a turning point—the moment when their dreams of studying at IE University become a reality. Beyond the tuition benefit, the AEA connects awardees to the IE Foundation Fellows Program, where a whole world of events, experiences and community awaits. What exactly is the Academic Excellence Award? The AEA is an award that goes to students with exceptional academic merit and potential during the IE University admissions process, and all students are considered automatically when applying. For students like Mariana Valentina Guerrero, it was a totally unforgettable moment: "Getting this scholarship was such a game changer for my journey to IE University. Also, my family was super proud, since they considered it proof of all the hard work we've put in over the years. " The AEA recognizes your achievements and makes sure that your next steps are guided. Perks of the Academic Excellence Award The AEA provides a tuition benefit, but the experiences and opportunities it affords really make your time at IE University special. IE Foundation Fellows Program membership: A special community of high-achieving, motivated students like you who are passionate about their studies. Access to exclusive events: From cultural get-togethers to networking opportunities, these events really spice up your academic life and broaden your perspective... --- ### EdTech 2024: How technology and AI are shaping the future of education > Explore how AI in education and immersive technology are is transforming learning and fostering innovation. - Published: 2024-12-11 - Modified: 2024-12-31 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/edtech-2024-how-technology-and-ai-are-shaping-the-future-of-education/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Innovation & Creativity - Tags: AI in education, Artificial Intelligence, Campus Life, Innovation - Tags: English AI in education is here to stay, and poised to impact nearly every aspect of how we learn and teach. But what does that really look like? Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly transforming various sectors, and education is no exception. Common questions arise: How can AI personalize learning experiences? What are the ethical implications of integrating AI into classrooms? Will AI in education replace human educators? And is using AI for homework cheating? As schools around the globe grapple with these questions, IE University decided to tackle them head-on at its EdTech 2024 conference. We sent an envoy from Driving Innovation to uncover how the institution is tackling the challenges—and opportunities—of a tech-driven future in education. Can AI be the ultimate teacher’s assistant? Dr. Ikhlaq Sidhu, Dean of the IE School of Science and Technology, thinks so—if we use it wisely. The Dean of the IE School of Science and Technology and creator of the Berkeley Method of Entrepreneurship presented a bold yet simple idea: double testing. "Students need to master the fundamentals without AI, but they should also learn to apply these advanced tools in real-world projects. " Think of it like math class with and without a calculator—tests on the basics? No AI allowed. But when it’s time for big projects and problem-solving? Bring on the bots! Therefore, with over 60 patents and a career shaping teaching frameworks, Dr. Sidhu emphasized the need for educators to define AI’s role clearly, ensuring it becomes a tool for empowerment and not dependency or "cheating". Introducing the EdgeLab: the future of AI in education At a panel featuring Begoña González-Cuesta (Dean of Education & Academic Experience), Diego Soroa... --- ### The classroom flip: Student-led learning and the power of...dance? > Discover how student-led learning turns traditional teaching on its head with creativity, empowerment and even dance-offs in the classroom. - Published: 2024-12-09 - Modified: 2025-01-07 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-classroom-flip-student-led-learning-and-the-power-of-dance/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Behavior and Social Sciences, Campus Life, Leadership, Student-led learning - Tags: English What happens when students take the reins in the classroom? At IE University, lessons become unforgettable experiences filled with laughter, teamwork and fresh perspectives. Throughout history, some educators have boldly redefined what it means to teach. From Maria Montessori, who revolutionized early childhood education by making the classroom an exploratory playground, to John Keating, the fictional but unforgettable teacher of Dead Poets Society, who urged his students to "seize the day. " Their methods might have raised eyebrows, but their impact was undeniable. At IE University, we’re proud to count our own disruptors among these ranks—trailblazers like Professor Brendan Anglin. A rumor had been circulating through the halls: a Leadership and Influence class where students became teachers and lessons unfolded through, of all things, a dance-off. Curious, we investigated. What we discovered went beyond a quirky anecdote; it was a story about student-led learning and how this kind of unconventional teaching can spark engagement, growth and an entirely new perspective on education. A classroom turned dance floor In Professor Anglin’s second-year Bachelor in Behavior and Social Sciences class, traditional hierarchies were turned upside down. Students were tasked with leading the lesson. So, we attended a class and watched as they combined theory with practice in the most Gen Z way imaginable—through dance. The leading students tought us how to set SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound). After explaining the theory, they split the class into groups and asked them to choreograph routines that embodied these goals. The result? An unforgettable session where learning happened through movement, laughter and a whole lot of creativity. “What better way to learn behavioral science than by... --- ### Can entrepreneurship be taught? Why failure is part of the curriculum at IE University - Published: 2024-12-06 - Modified: 2025-01-27 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/can-entrepreneurship-be-taught-why-failure-is-part-of-the-curriculum-at-ie-university/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Can entrepreneurship be taught, Entrepreneurship, Going to IEU, Podcast - Tags: English Can entrepreneurship really be taught? Professors at IE University break it down. Today, IE University is renowned for its innovative approach to business education and encouraging entrepreneurship opportunities among students. Yet many wonder if entrepreneurship can be properly taught in a classroom setting. The latest Going to IEU podcast explores these questions with IE Business School Professor Maya Kumar and Academic Coordinator Gabriela Caso. In this episode, Kumar and Caso talk about the key characteristics of entrepreneurs and the benefits of failing. A different kind of educational model Whether entrepreneurship can be taught effectively in the classroom has long divided educators and practitioners. This is why IE University combines rigorous academic research with hands-on experience. According to Professor Kumar, "We try to look at entrepreneurship analytically, drawing from multiple entrepreneurs’ experiences to teach what has worked and what hasn’t. It’s not just based on anecdotal evidence—we bring research principles into the classroom to make it practical and relevant. " Given the diverse mindsets at IE University, the balance of theory and practice is critical. After all, some students enroll with pre-existing ventures or strong entrepreneurial aspirations. Conversely, other students are skeptical or pessimistic about the subject. These types of situations are where the most profound learning experiences take place. For Caso, “the most gratifying thing is when students who had a terrible image of entrepreneurship come into the course and we're able to change their mindset. ”"She adds, "Sometimes students write in their reflections things like ‘I thought I wasn't good enough for entrepreneurship, and we help them overcome these limiting beliefs.... --- ### Want to make it in the fashion industry? The president of Adolfo Domínguez tells us how > Discover how to make it in the fashion industry with insider tips from Adriana Domínguez and what qualities can set you apart! - Published: 2024-12-04 - Modified: 2024-12-09 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/want-to-make-it-in-the-fashion-industry-president-of-adolfo-dominguez-tells-us-how/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Fashion Design, Fashion, How to make it in the fashion industry - Tags: English Adriana Domínguez shares her wisdom on standing out in fashion We all think we’re fashion experts until it’s time to turn our opinions into something tangible. Creating a personal style is one thing; building a career in fashion? That’s an entirely different game. Fashion is more than glitzy runway shows and Instagram-worthy outfits—it’s where art meets business and creativity collides with strategy. So, how do you stand out in an industry brimming with talent and ambition? Enter Adriana Domínguez, Executive President of Adolfo Domínguez—a brand synonymous with craftsmanship and timeless quality. In an exclusive interview with IE University, she shared some hard-earned wisdom on making your mark. Ready? Let’s dive in. Adriana Domínguez's advice on how to make it in the fashion industry 1. Cultivate a "high culture" mindset Let’s face it: scrolling through TikTok trends isn’t enough to thrive in fashion. “Read, travel and be very alert to more than just trends,” Domínguez advises. This means broadening your horizons. Study Renaissance art, get lost in local markets during your travels, or dive into the stories of cultures far removed from your own. These experiences will fuel your creativity and set you apart from the crowd. 2. Learn (and master) the business of fashion Here’s a wake-up call: being talented isn’t enough. "The business side of fashion is becoming very professional, and you need to study very hard to be good at it," Domínguez says. Numbers matter. Understanding merchandising, finance and the intricate process of structuring a collection is non-negotiable. 3. Embrace craftmanship and sustainability Craftsmanship is not just about... --- ### IEUMUN 2024: The international model UN where diplomacy meets community > Discover how IEUMUN 2024 redefined international model UN conferences with debates, community and unforgettable moments in Madrid. - Published: 2024-11-29 - Modified: 2025-01-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ieumun-2024-international-model-un-where-diplomacy-meets-community/ - Categories: IEU Experience, Learning & Academics - Tags: Campus Life, Events, IE School of Politics Economics and Global Affairs, Internarional Model UN - Tags: English A celebration of connection and diplomacy, IEUMUN 2024 brought together participants for debates, cultural experiences and moments that will stay with them forever. What happens when extraordinary individuals from around the world come together to debate, connect and share unforgettable experiences? You get IEUMUN 2024. This year marked the fifth edition of Europe’s largest international model UN conference, hosted right here, at the IE Tower in Madrid. Here are the highlights: Delegates participated in thought-provoking debates, attended a glamorous gala at the Reina Sofía Museum and visited UNICEF's headquarters in Madrid. The latter added layers of cultural and real-world engagement to the experience. With over 400 delegates from 100+ universities and 50 countries, it was a whirlwind of culture, ideas and unforgettable moments. 14 committees, endless opportunities At IE University's international model UN, every committee is like its own mini-world. But this year, two stood out for their creativity. The Spanish-speaking Olympic Committee debated the next host city for the Olympics in a fascinating display of multilingual diplomacy. Meanwhile, a four-cabinet crisis on "Civilization Building in Ancient China" had participants diving headfirst into history, strategy and storytelling. Who says diplomacy can’t be fun? The power of policy "The resolutions you pass echo real-world efforts to find common ground," said Borja Santos, Vice-Dean of the IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, during the opening ceremony. "You are coming up with ideas that might help many achieve their dreams. " Nowhere was this more evident than in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). With a focus on "The Situation in the Sahel," delegates wrestled with topics like insurgent groups, peacekeeping missions and climate... --- ### The future begins with you: Designing sustainable fashion at our Fashion Studio and Textile Lab > Discover how conscious consumer choices and innovative design are shaping the future of sustainable fashion. - Published: 2024-11-27 - Modified: 2025-01-16 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/designing-sustainable-fashion-at-our-fashion-studio-and-textile-lab/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Fashion Design, Sustainability, Sustainable fashion - Tags: English The future of fashion is green, and it starts with you. Discover how consumers and creators can reshape the industry for a sustainable tomorrow. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, but its environmental impact is hard to ignore. The fast fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of wastewater, according to the BBC. While these statistics are alarming, there’s hope—both for consumers ready to make mindful choices and for the next generation of designers being trained to create a more sustainable fashion industry. A perfect example of the latter is IE University's Fashion Studio and Textile Lab in Segovia. Keep reading to find out more! What you can do for sustainable fashion as a consumer Consumer responsability in fashion is very much a thing. The 7 R’s of sustainable fashion—Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle and Rot—offer a roadmap for adopting more eco-friendly habits. 1. Rethink Start by reevaluating your relationship with clothing. Do you buy items on impulse or follow fleeting trends promoted by influencers? Fashion doesn’t have to mean excess. Embracing outfit repeating and choosing timeless, versatile pieces (also known as having a capsule wardrobe) can reduce your consumption while keeping your wardrobe stylish. 2. Refuse Say no to unnecessary purchases and fast fashion freebies. If your closet is already brimming with T-shirts you’ve worn once, reconsider adding more. Refusing overproduction signals companies to rethink their practices. 3. Reduce When you do shop, choose quality over quantity. Care for your clothes to extend their lifespan—washing less frequently, air drying and mending instead of replacing can significantly reduce waste. Renting outfits for special occasions is another way... --- ### Everything you need to know about IE Summer School—and how summer school in Europe can help your future > Discover how IE Summer School in Europe combines learning, culture and adventure to shape your future while exploring Spain. - Published: 2024-11-25 - Modified: 2025-02-06 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/everything-you-need-to-know-about-ie-summer-school-and-how-summer-school-in-europe-can-help-your-future/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Campus Life, IE Summer School, Madrid, Segovia, Summer programs, summer school in Europe - Tags: English Unlock a summer like no other with IE Summer School in Europe—where learning meets adventure in the heart of Spain. From hands-on projects to cultural escapades, this is your chance to grow, explore and thrive. Let’s be honest—when you hear "summer school," your first thought might be stuffy classrooms and missed opportunities for beach days. But this summer school in Europe is anything but ordinary. Here, summer is about more than soaking up the sun—it’s about soaking up experiences that could shape a lifetime. Let’s dive into what makes IE Summer School the ultimate blend of learning, growth and unforgettable fun. A summer school in Europe like no other Imagine this: sipping a café con leche on a sunny morning in Madrid or walking through Segovia’s cobblestone streets, where every corner feels like a page from a storybook. IE Summer School invites you to live these moments while building skills, exploring career paths and connecting with people from around the globe. "It was a complete cultural and academic immersion," says Bianca Lima Greco, a Pre-University Summer Program participant. "Visiting both campuses helped me confirm that IE was my first choice and gave me clarity about starting in Segovia. " Whether you’re prepping for university or upskilling as a college student, our summer school offers something unique: a chance to peak at your next steps while exploring the best of Spain. Pre-University Summer Program: Your college kickstart If you’re 16 or 17 years old and curious about university life, the Pre-University Summer Program is like your backstage pass. Here’s what makes it special: You'll explore different academic paths: Try courses in entrepreneurship, tech, law or sustainability to see what sparks your interest. You'll enjoy ands-on projects:... --- ### Top 10 things to do in Madrid before Winter > Discover the top things to do in Madrid before winter, from festive strolls to unique cultural activities. - Published: 2024-11-22 - Modified: 2024-11-22 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/top-10-things-to-do-in-madrid-before-winter/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Madrid, Things to do in Madrid before winter - Tags: English Before Madrid transforms into a winter wonderland, there’s a sweet spot for adventure, charm and seasonal magic. Discover the top 10 things you have to experience before the chill sets in If you've spent any amount of time in Madrid, you already know that winter in the Spanish capital is no joke. But if you're still braving these mild November chills thinking, “this isn't so bad”, brace yourself—you're in for a frosty surprise. January and February in Madrid are tailor-made for hot cocoa, fuzzy blankets and indoor plans. Thankfully, there's still time to soak up the not-as-cold pre-Christmas season. To make the most of it, we at Driving Innovation have put together a list of the top 10 things to do in Madrid before the city becomes a winter wonderland. 10. Get the “terraceo” out of your system in Madrid's plazas A classic that never gets old. There’s no better way to embrace Spain’s culture than by hopping from one tapas bar to another (tapeo) or enjoying a drink outdoors (terraceo) in one of Madrid’s stunning plazas. Whether you're sharing a plate of croquetas with friends or sipping sangría under the Christmas lights, this timeless tradition keeps the city's street life alive. But be warned—come January, many of those charming outdoor cafés trade their terraces for cozy indoor spaces, so take advantage of the fresh air while you still can! 9. A day trip to Patones de Arriba  Looking for an escape? Patones de Arriba is a picturesque village tucked away in Madrid’s mountains. With cobblestone streets, scenic views and an old-world charm, it’s the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s easiest to reach by car, but buses... --- ### The International Baccalaureate: One way to study abroad in Spain  > Discover how the International Baccalaureate can prepare you for top universities in Spain with skills, credentials and a global mindset. - Published: 2024-11-20 - Modified: 2025-03-13 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-international-baccalaureate-one-way-to-study-abroad-in-spain/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: English Ready to turn your dream of studying in Spain into reality? The right program can do more than just prepare you academically—it can simplify the application process. Picture yourself on warm, sun-drenched afternoons, wandering through plazas adorned with architectural masterpieces from past centuries. Imagine sharing tapas and lively discussions with classmates from around the world, all while advancing your education to the highest international standards. Spain has it all: top-notch universities, a vibrant culture, incredible food and a lifestyle that’s as affordable as it is unforgettable. But how do you go from dreaming about studying abroad in Spain to actually making it happen? One way to smooth the path is through the International Baccalaureate (IB)—a program designed to help students like you achieve their academic goals while preparing for a global future. https://youtu. be/H5m7knCVzqM? si=WsQVQcXxZvdk7KQ4 Study abroad in Spain: the basics Applying to Spanish universities can feel like uncharted territory, but the process isn’t as tricky as it seems. Here’s the breakdown: If you studied in Spain For students coming from Spanish schools and schools that follow the Spanish education system, it’s very straightforward: submit your EvAU results (the Spanish university entrance exam), and you’re good to go. If you studied in a compatible education system If you’re coming from a different European country or a high school with a curriculum like the International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate or the Chinese and Swiss education systems, all you need is a certificate from UNED. This document converts your grades into the Spanish grading scale, making you eligible to apply. It’s simple and hassle-free, especially if you’re applying to IE University. If your education system hasn’t been listed yet For... --- ### IE University students featured in Dezeen: These are the top 10 projects > Discover how IE University students' creative designs were featured in Dezeen, the world's top architecture magazine. - Published: 2024-11-15 - Modified: 2024-11-15 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-university-students-featured-in-dezeen-these-are-the-top-10-projects/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: IE School of Architecture & Design, Student Stories - Tags: English IE University students are making waves in the design world! Dezeen, the leading architecture and design magazine, spotlighted 10 of their groundbreaking projects—proving the power of creativity and a forward-thinking education. IE University’s School of Architecture and Design continues to lead the way in fostering creativity and groundbreaking ideas. This year, Dezeen, the world’s most influential architecture, interiors and design magazine, featured 10 exceptional projects from IE students. With over three million monthly readers and seven million social media followers, Dezeen is a global stage for emerging talent—and this year, our students have made their mark. Our students' top 10 projects featured in Dezeen Here’s a closer look at the exceptional student projects featured in Dezeen, in no particular order: Commodity of Land and Locals: Exotic Invasive Species by Alara Aykanat Alara's project challenges human-centered design by comparing humans to invasive species. She envisions a world where non-human elements—like animals and plants—are treated as co-creators of space. By rethinking ecology as “oikos,” or a shared household, her designs promote kinship with nature. This idea pushes us toward sustainable infrastructures that blend humanity and biodiversity in harmony. The City Under A Tree by Daniela Figueroa Rozotto By integrating temporary and permanent structures for public and private events, Daniela has created a space that adapts to the city of Malaga to its year-round needs. Her innovative eco-friendly systems—solar panels, rainwater collection, and improved bike paths—showcase a practical yet visionary approach to urban design. This project isn't just a design; it’s a blueprint for social sustainability. Sticks and Stones of Flood + Drought by Yusuf Sühan Bozkurt Yusuf has reimagined Girona's landscape with a climate-adaptive project that uses limestone terraces to manage floods and... --- ### What is living in South Korea like for a foreigner? > Living in South Korea: Gabriela’s journey through culture shock, local traditions and surprising moments of connection. - Published: 2024-11-13 - Modified: 2024-11-13 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/what-is-living-in-south-korea-like-for-a-foreigner/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Dual Degree in Laws + International Relations|Exchange|Student Stories - Tags: English Gabriela’s story of culture shock, unexpected warmth and navigating language hurdles paints a lively picture of adapting to Seoul—and finding a new home in a vastly different world. Can you imagine moving to a place where you barely speak the language, have little understanding of local customs and find yourself navigating a culture vastly different from your own? For many foreigners living in South Korea, this isn’t just an idea; it’s a reality. The challenges of adapting to life here often bring about culture shock, as well as surprising encounters with Korean hospitality and the occasional "lost-in-translation" moment. Adjusting to a new world: Gabriela’s story Our Dual Degree in Laws & International Relations student Gabriela shared her unique experience as an international student in Seoul. Before her arrival, she’d heard that Koreans could be a bit reserved toward foreigners, but her experience has been the complete opposite. She describes how classmates and even strangers make an effort to include her in traditions, often turning to translation apps or simply doing their best in English to bridge the gap. This welcoming spirit has been one of her biggest surprises—and something she’s grateful for as she adapts to life in a new culture. Navigating language barriers and everyday challenges While Korean hospitality is a highlight, Gabriela has certainly faced her share of obstacles. "The language barrier is real," she says, explaining how she often finds signs on campus written only in Korean. "What if there’s a fire? " she jokes, recalling the day she found herself trying to decipher the emergency exit signs in her dorm. However, learning to read and write Korean has become an unexpected skill for Gabriela.... --- ### Beyond the pitch: How our Tech Venture Bootcamp cultivates a new breed of innovators > Experience the journey of IE University’s tech bootcamp, where students go beyond the pitch to build real-world skills. - Published: 2024-11-11 - Modified: 2024-11-11 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/beyond-the-pitch-how-our-tech-venture-bootcamp-cultivates-a-new-breed-of-innovators/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence|Competitions & Challenges|IE School of Science and Technology|Student Stories - Tags: English Discover the drive and determination that transform first-year students into the innovators of tomorrow at the Tech Venture Bootcamp. It’s not just about the pitch—it’s about unlocking potential, challenging perspectives and creating something real. When you think of a startup bootcamp, you probably imagine long hours, high-stakes pitches and a relentless hustle to come up with a game-changing idea. At IE University’s Tech Venture Bootcamp, that’s exactly what you get—but it’s more than just the “final pitch” that leaves a lasting impact on the students. The tech bootcamp is designed to redefine what it means to be an innovator through hackathons and demos, giving participants a taste of the challenges and rewards that come with turning an idea into reality. For first-year students like Matteo Giorgetti and Christoph Rintz, the bootcamp is an exciting opportunity to take theoretical knowledge and turn it into something tangible. But the experience proved to be far more transformative than either of them expected. Why take the leap? Matteo and Christoph, both Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence students, came to the bootcamp with different expectations—but left with a shared sense of achievement. “I heard about it from a student in the year above,” Christoph recalls. “The concept was intriguing, and the opportunity to meet with investors really appealed to me. Plus, it was only a few days, so I figured it wouldn’t be a huge commitment. ” Matteo had a similar motivation. “I wanted something that would push me beyond my comfort zone. The bootcamp seemed like the perfect way to dive deeper into the world of tech and entrepreneurship. ” Both soon found that the bootcamp was more than just a side project. “I didn’t expect... --- ### Learning by doing: Juan’s law internship story > Juan Sanz’s law internship at CECA Magán Abogados offered hands-on experience in corporate law, showcasing the value of real-world learning. - Published: 2024-11-08 - Modified: 2024-11-11 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/learning-by-doing-juans-law-internship-story/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Business Administration|Bachelor of Laws|Dual Degree in Business Administration + Laws|Entrepreneurship|Student Stories, IE Business School, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English Juan Sanz’s law internship at CECA Magán Abogados gave him hands-on experience in corporate law, working on M&A deals and learning from experts across industries. His story highlights the value of seizing real-world opportunities to kickstart a legal career. As a Dual Degree in Business Administration & Laws student, Juan Sanz is already shaping a future in law through a series of real-world experiences. During the second semester of his fourth year, he secured a part-time law internship with CECA Magán Abogados—a highly regarded Spanish firm known for its “preventive advice” approach, which helps clients sidestep legal issues before they arise. Before this, Juan expanded his global perspective with a semester abroad at The University of Hong Kong, gaining firsthand experience with firms like Lefebvre and IGR Abogados. In this interview, he dives into the ins and outs of working at one of Spain's top mid-sized firms and shares his advice for students eager to get a practical start in the legal world. Juan's law internship What drew you to this internship? I wanted to work there because they’re a leading mid-sized law firm in Spain. This meant I’d get a lot of hands-on experience, which is sometimes less accessible in larger firms. Plus, I’d still get to work on major cases. To top that, they were great about accommodating my class schedule throughout the semester. Juan Sanz Magallón What did you do during your law internship, and what parts of the experience stood out to you? I got to work on everything from M&A deals to governance issues and regulatory aspects. I spent a lot of time supporting teams in due diligence for M&A operations, which was incredibly rewarding. It was exciting to see how our work directly... --- ### El impacto ético y legal de la inteligencia artificial en el derecho > Descubre cómo La inteligencia artificial en el derecho está revolucionando la práctica legal y planteando nuevos retos éticos y profesionales. - Published: 2024-11-06 - Modified: 2024-11-19 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/es/el-impacto-etico-y-legal-de-la-inteligencia-artificial-en-el-derecho/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor of Laws, Español, IE Law School, La inteligencia artificial en el derecho - Tags: Español La inteligencia artificial está revolucionando el ámbito jurídico, desde la automatización de tareas hasta complejos dilemas éticos y legales. Descubre cómo los abogados deben adaptarse a esta nueva era y qué desafíos y oportunidades trae consigo la IA. La inteligencia artificial (IA) está transformando el mundo a un ritmo vertiginoso, y el sector legal no es una excepción. Según un estudio reciente de Open Text, el 91 % de los abogados encuestados considera que la IA no solo cambiará radicalmente su campo, sino que se convertirá en una herramienta clave para el éxito en los próximos años. Sin embargo, este auge de la IA en el derecho plantea preguntas fundamentales sobre hasta dónde debería llegar su uso y cómo asegurar que el impacto ético y social sea positivo. Recientemente, Andy Ramos, socio del despacho de bogados Pérez-Llorca, compartió sus reflexiones en una charla en IE Law School sobre cómo la práctica jurídica está condicionando el desarrollo de la IA. Andy Ramos junto a ex alumnos de derecho en la jornada de puertas abiertas de IE Law School La inteligencia artificial en el derecho: ¿Innovación o amenaza? “Los abogados deben adaptarse y desarrollar habilidades para trabajar con sistemas de IA para mantenerse competitivos en el mercado laboral”, afirmó Ramos. Un mensaje que ha resonado en muchas otras disciplinas. Con herramientas de IA capaces de realizar tareas complejas como la redacción de contratos y la investigación jurídica, los abogados están obligados a evolucionar y repensar su rol en un entorno que demanda rapidez y precisión. Sin embargo, esta transformación plantea una pregunta importante: ¿hasta qué punto debería permitirse que la IA asuma roles tradicionalmente reservados para los humanos? La respuesta, según Ramos, radica en un enfoque equilibrado que valore la... --- ### You can still vote in the 2024 US election (even if you live abroad) > You can still vote in the 2024 election from abroad—here’s a short guide on how to make your voice count last-minute. - Published: 2024-11-01 - Modified: 2024-11-04 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/you-can-still-vote-in-the-2024-presidential-election-even-if-you-live-abroad/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Political Science - Tags: English Your vote can still shape the future. Here’s everything last-minute overseas voters need to know to make their voices heard in the 2024 election. The 2024 US presidential election is almost here, and its outcome has more at stake than ever before. With pivotal issues on the table, decisions made at the polls will shape the future not only for the United States but also for the world. This year, we’re seeing record-high voter registration, especially among young adults. Vote. org, the largest nonpartisan voter registration platform in the US, reported over one million new voters registered in September alone. But for Americans abroad, the question lingers: is it too late to make your vote count? Here’s the good news: it’s not. Even if you’re abroad, you can still vote in the 2024 presidential election, as long as you’re over 18 and a US citizen. Here’s what you need to know to take part in the 2024 election, wherever you are. Can I still vote in the 2024 election if I live abroad? The short answer is yes. But with Election Day approaching fast, email is the only reliable method for overseas registration and voting at this stage, as postal ballots may not arrive in time. Whether or not you can still vote also depends on state-specific rules and your registration status. How to vote from abroad If you’re living abroad, here’s how you can register and request your ballot online: Head fvap. gov and select "Still need to register and request a ballot? Click here. " Choose your state and voter classification, then fill in your personal information and your last U. S.... --- ### The first student-managed investment fund in Spain was born here at IE University > Spain’s first student managed investment fund at offers students hands-on experience in managing capital to support future scholarships. - Published: 2024-10-30 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-first-student-managed-investment-fund-in-spain-was-born-here-at-ie-university/ - Categories: Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Business Administration|Bachelor of Laws|Dual Degree in Business Administration + Laws|Entrepreneurship|Student Stories, Student Stories - Tags: English Did you know Spain’s first student-led investment fund started right here at IE University? The EDEN Fund empowers students to make impactful financial decisions—while building a legacy to support future scholarships Student-managed investment funds are launching pads for future financial leaders. As some of the most impactful educational initiatives, they allow students to work with real capital, make decisions based on their analysis, and navigate financial market highs and lows. They offer a rare chance to gain real-world investment and management skills—making them a unique resource for universities. What is an endowment fund? An endowment fund is a pool of assets held by an institution, often a university or non-profit, to generate income for long-term initiatives, like scholarships, research and academic programs. Unlike a traditional investment fund, where the main goal is maximizing returns, an endowment fund focuses on generating steady income over time. Endowment funds are designed to grow sustainably, with a portion of annual returns reinvested to ensure the fund’s longevity. Inside the EDEN Fund Did you know that the first student-managed investment fund in Spain was created at IE University? The EDEN Fund was founded by ambitious students with a clear vision. It is setting new standards in Spain by offering students real investment experience while actually contributing to a good cause. To get a closer look, we spoke with Edoardo Nicotra, a fifth-year Bachelor in Business Administration & Laws student and the EDEN Fund’s president. Tell us a bit about the EDEN Fund and your role as president The EDEN Fund is a team effort. We have about 35 students, organized into four teams. Macro and Stocks make up the Investment team, led by our CIO, Nicola... --- ### Humanitarian crisis management: Inside IE University’s refugee camp simulation > Experience how our refugee camp simulation prepares students to tackle a humanitarian crisis, building critical skills and empathy. - Published: 2024-10-28 - Modified: 2024-10-28 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/humanitarian-crisis-management-inside-ie-universitys-refugee-camp-simulation/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Economics, Bachelor in International Relations, Competitions & Challenges, IE School of Politics Economics and Global Affairs - Tags: English In this hands-on simulation of a refugee camp, students step into the role of aid workers, facing the real challenges of providing safety, support and hope to those in urgent need. A refugee is someone who has been “forcibly displaced” from their home due to events like a war, natural disaster or humanitarian crisis. By mid-2024, over 122 million people worldwide faced this reality, according to UNHCR data. This is a global concern. In fact, after World War II, 149 countries recognized it by agreeing to protect refugees under the 1951 Refugee Convention. Seeking asylum is a universal right, and it's crucial for the next generation of leaders to understand how to uphold this right. To prepare students to meet these challenges, the IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs hosts a humanitarian crisis simulation every year. This immersive experience puts Bachelor’s students in Economics and International Relations in the role of NGO team members in a refugee camp, giving them a close-up view of the work involved in humanitarian aid. Understanding refugees’ basic needs The UNHCR defines basic needs for refugees as those essentials for their survival, safety, health and well-being. Addressing these needs involves: Essential supplies such as food, water and blankets. A safe environment to protect them from potential harm. Access to basic services, including healthcare and sanitation. Support for sustainable livelihoods, enabling refugees to manage their own resources. With this framework in mind, our students learn not only to recognize these needs but also to strategize on how best to meet them in a resource-limited environment. Equipping future leaders for complex challenges During our humanitarian crisis simulation our students tackled challenges like setting up shelters, managing... --- ### Inside our BIE-IFC summer program: paving the path for careers in sustainable finance > Our BIE-IFC Summer Program gives students a firsthand look into the impact of sustainable finance in developing countries. - Published: 2024-10-25 - Modified: 2025-02-06 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/inside-our-bie-ifc-summer-program-paving-the-path-for-careers-in-sustainable-finance/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: #GOINGTOIEU, BIE-IFC Summer Program, Summer programs - Tags: English Dive into the BIE-IFC Summer Program, where students get firsthand experience tackling global challenges—combining private investment with real-world impact in developing countries. Private sector engagement is key when it comes to tackling poverty and promoting sustainable development. By joining forces with the public sector, private investments can create jobs, build infrastructure and support environmental initiatives. Keep reading to discover how sustainable finance can help build more resilient economies. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a global leader in this mission, working in emerging markets to mobilize capital and open new economic pathways. In 2024 alone, the IFC committed a record $56 billion to private sector projects, fueling sustainable growth and economic opportunity worldwide. A first immersion into sustainable finance For Bachelor in Economics students looking to explore sustainable finance, our BIE-IFC Summer Program offers a look at how private sector solutions drive global progress. Here, one participant shares how this unique experience brought theory to life and reshaped their career ambitions. What drew you to this program? I was initially intrigued by the idea of purchasing power parity and the impact of finance on sustainable development. But the main reason is that I’d seen projects like these in my home country. What projects did you work on? I focused on sustainable energy projects and the financing structures behind them. Some highlights were the Jinan Solar Park by Kong Sun Holdings in China, and infrastructure projects like Thailand’s Bangkok Mass Transit System and the NPS Floating Power Plant. These case studies were inspiring and relevant to my career goals in sustainable finance, giving me a practical grasp of how such projects can come... --- ### Guide: How to get a job at Google > Curious about how to get a job at Google? Learn about the hiring process and get tips from a student who landed her dream internship. - Published: 2024-10-23 - Modified: 2024-11-27 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/guide-how-to-get-a-job-at-google/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Google Internship, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English Discover insider tips on Google’s hiring process and how one student turned her passion for tech into an internship at one of the world's top companies. When it comes to dream jobs, Google is at the top of the list for many. Known for its innovative culture, cool perks (nap pods and bowling alleys, anyone? ) and cutting-edge tech, it’s no surprise that Google’s hiring process is designed to find people who can bring something special to the table. The phrase “I work at Google” rolls off the tongue with a certain allure, and the salaries are pretty good too. But how does one land that coveted Google internship or job? How hard is it to get a job at Google? Pretty hard. Landing a job at Google isn’t just about meeting qualifications. With over 2 million job applications received annually, Google hires only about 4,000 people each year. That makes the odds about 0. 2%. Google’s hiring process is famously long and challenging, with multiple stages designed to assess both technical and interpersonal skills. Google’s hiring process If you’re up for the challenge, here’s some advice from Google Careers with a breakdown of what to expect when applying: Craft a tailored resume Start with a blank document for each job you apply to. Align your skills with the job description, highlight specific projects, and use metrics to show your impact. Keep it concise—Google values precision over length. Use Google’s career tool Once you’ve got your resume ready, use Google’s career search tool to find the right roles. Remember, you can apply for up to three jobs every 30 days, so make sure they count. Keep... --- ### The ultimate guide to social media detox > Discover how a social media detox can help you reclaim your time and boost your well-being with our quick and effective guide. - Published: 2024-10-21 - Modified: 2024-10-21 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/the-ultimate-guide-to-social-media-detox/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Behavior and Social Sciences, Guide, Social media detox - Tags: English Struggling to put down your phone? This guide will help you break the scrolling cycle, reclaim your time and refocus on what truly matters. We all know it—social media isn’t exactly great for us. From lower self-esteem to trouble focusing, the negative effects are well documented. Statistics back it up: the more we scroll, the worse we tend to feel. There’s even a term for the endless cycle of negative content we often find ourselves trapped in—doomscrolling. It refers to the habit of continuously scrolling through distressing content, leaving us feeling drained. Before you know it, hours have slipped away, you feel horrible, and you can't even remember what you were looking at. Your reason for wanting a social media detox doesn’t matter. Whether you want to be more present, struggle to sleep at night or just need to focus on studying for exams, this three-step guide is here to help you hit reset. Before we continue, keep in mind that we are not psychologists. If you suspect you’re struggling with social media addiction, we advise you to contact a specialist for help. 1. Understand why you can't stop scrolling Ever feel like your phone is practically glued to your hand? That’s because social media taps into one of our brain’s natural reward systems—dopamine. Often called the "pleasure chemical," dopamine is released when we do something enjoyable, historically motivating us to seek out things like food or social connection. But now, instead of hunting for food, we just order it through an app, and dopamine kicks in from even simpler activities, like scrolling through Instagram. The more we indulge in quick pleasures, the less... --- ### What’s wrong with Spanish schedules? > Discover the history behind Spanish schedules, from midday naps to late-night dinners, and why geography plays a key role in its daily rhythm - Published: 2024-10-18 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/whats-wrong-with-spanish-schedules/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Discover Madrid, Discover Spain, IE Summer School, Spanish schedules - Tags: English Ever wondered why dinner in Spain starts at 11 pm or why stores close midday? From siestas to little-known historical facts, there’s more behind the chaos than meets the eye. If you’ve spent any time in Spain, you’ve probably found yourself asking: “What the heck is wrong with Spanish schedules? ” You might have tried shopping at 2:30 p. m. , only to discover that local stores don’t reopen until 5 p. m. , or you may have been invited to an 11 p. m. dinner and wondered if that’s normal. Late meals, odd work hours, and even an almost mandatory midday nap—it’s not just foreigners who find these habits peculiar. Spaniards are well aware of their unconventional schedules, but they’re not random. And they have nothing to do with daylight savings. In fact, there are deep historical and cultural reasons behind this seemingly chaotic routine. The "why" of Spanish schedules The truth is, the Spanish didn’t choose these unusual hours. Their daily schedule is shaped by several factors that go back decades, even centuries. Spain is in the wrong time zone Here’s the story: Spain is geographically located in the GMT time zone, same as the UK, Portugal and Morocco. But our clocks are set to Central European Time (CET), which is an hour ahead. A 10 p. m. sunset in Vigo, Spain Why? Well, it all goes back to World War II. Spain’s then-dictator, Francisco Franco, decided to align the country's clocks with Nazi Germany as a political gesture of solidarity. Unlike other European countries that reverted after the war, Spain never changed its clocks back. Some believe this might be because having more daylight hours was seen... --- ### Best restaurants in Caleido Madrid > Explore the best restaurants in Caleido Madrid, where IE University students share their favorite spots from tacos to healthy bowls. - Published: 2024-10-16 - Modified: 2025-01-30 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/best-restaurants-in-caleido-madrid/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Best Caleido Restaurants, Campus Life, Discover Madrid, IE Summer School, Student ratings - Tags: English Discover the top 8 student-approved restaurants at Caleido, Madrid! From tacos to Lebanese wraps, these spots are perfect for every craving. While they wouldn’t call themselves food critics, IE University students definitely know where to eat between classes. Whether it's grabbing a quick snack, catching up with a friend over lunch or shopping after an evening lecture—Caleido is like a second home to them. So, we asked them to name the best restaurants in Caleido Madrid. You might wonder why you’d take advice from a bunch of college kids. It’s because we’re not talking about regular students. We’re talking individuals from very diverse backgrounds and extensive travel experiences, so it’s no surprise they’re well-versed in world cuisines. Here’s the official top 8 ranking of restaurants in Caleido Madrid, according to our students: 8. Tacos Don Manolito Caleido Student rating: 3. 2/5 Tacos, anyone? Tacos Don Manolito is great for when you’re in the mood for something spicy and delicious. Genuine Mexican food. From fun entrees like totopos with guac to more traditional dishes like chilaquiles and sincronizadas, this spot offers quick and flavorful bites that’ll keep you coming back for more. 7. La Desayunería Student rating: 3. 3/5 Are you an American missing home while you study or work abroad? Or maybe you just want to enjoy an authentic American-style breakfast like they do in the movies? Either way, La Desayunería is the place for you. Start your day with some blueberry pancakes or really fuel up with bacon and eggs. There’s even a kids' menu for the young’uns! “Their breakfast bowls are my weekend guilty pleasure. It feels like a... --- ### Why an international experience can help launch your career > Discover the life skills you can gain through an international experience, as shared by one of our students who did a year abroad. - Published: 2024-10-15 - Modified: 2024-10-15 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/why-an-international-experience-can-help-launch-your-career/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Economics, Exchange Program, HEC Montréal, International Experience, Student Stories - Tags: English Did you know that a year abroad during college can help your personal and professional growth? Find out how it made all the difference for one of our students. Coveted work skills these days go far beyond work ethic, teamwork abilities and being on time every day. For instance, knowing your way around AI is now essential, despite being almost irrelevant five years ago. Time management is critical with the rise of remote work. One area where interns and employees can truly stand out is their ability to thrive in a multicultural environment—an ability that comes from firsthand international experience. One of our students has agreed to tell us about the skills she’s gained during her year abroad at HEC Montréal. Some less talked about in-demand skills A study by the IIE Center for Academic Mobility Research and Impact sheds light on which soft skills executives prize in the 21st century. Here are some lesser-discussed skills that are becoming must-haves: Comfort with uncertainty: Most of us like feeling in control. A willingness to adapt during times of uncertainty is hard for a lot of people. It can even affect their performance and decision-making skills. Someone dependable is a gem in the workplace. Self-awareness: Ego has no place in high-performing teams. Knowing yourself—your strengths, weaknesses and when it’s time to shift gears—is a rare superpower. Curiosity: It’s not just about getting the job done. Being genuinely interested in the “why” and “how” of things makes you more likely to find creative solutions. Intercultural skills: In a world of cross-border collaboration, understanding different cultures is essential. It makes you more empathetic, adaptable and, frankly, a better person to be around. The... --- ### Success stories from IE University’s political science programs > Learn how a Bachelor in Political Science prepared Lucía and Paula for successful careers in international relations and policy. - Published: 2024-10-11 - Modified: 2025-03-25 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/success-stories-from-ie-universitys-political-science-programs/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Political Science, Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations, IE School of Economics Politics & Global Affairs, Political science, Student Stories - Tags: English Lucia and Paula are helping shape the future of politics. Read all about their journeys, the lessons they’ve learned and the challenges they face in a career in politics. Have you ever wondered about success stories from IE University’s political science programs? Two of our alumni are already having an impact beyond the classroom. Lucia Asenjo and Paula Oliver, both graduates of the IE School of Economics, Politics & Global Affairs, have transferred their skills into the real world. Here’s a look at their experience. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your current role in the political sector? Lucia: Currently, I work at the Ministry of Defense of Georgia in the Department of Reforms and Risk Management. My role involves analyzing and managing risks associated with defense reforms, and ensuring that our strategies align with national security goals. Paula: I am a former Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations student, from Spain. In my role as Policy Assistant, I support EU Delegations in the implementation of Global Gateway, the EU's strategy for its engagement abroad. However, I am about to transition to a new role and become a Research Assistant for European Policy and Spanish Foreign Policy in Elcano Royal Institute, Spain's leading IR think tank. What motivated you to pursue a career in politics? Lucia: My motivation to pursue a career in politics stemmed from a deep-seated desire to contribute to meaningful change and governance. Growing up, I was always fascinated by how policies and international relations shape societies. Paula: I have always had a sense of public service vocation. However, I have never been interested in partisan politics or joining a political... --- ### From school to the real world: Lucía's marketing internship > Student Lucía de Pablos reflects on her eight-month marketing internship, where she applied her passion for storytelling and digital media. - Published: 2024-10-07 - Modified: 2024-10-15 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/from-school-to-the-real-world-lucias-marketing-internship/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Communication and Digital Media, IE School of Science and Technology, MArketing internship, Robotics & AI Lab, Student Stories - Tags: English Read all about Lucía's academic experience, the importance of creative freedom and how a life-changing internship helped her discover her true passions. Lucía de Pablos has seen her childhood love for storytelling and creative expression evolve into real career opportunities. Our Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media student began an eight-month marketing internship at IE University’s School of Science & Technology, where she was able to apply this knowledge in a practical setting, gaining special insights and skills that have shaped her future career. What made you realize that communications and digital media was the right path for you? A picture I took of Segovia, my hometown. I’ve always had a lot of interests but never a clear focus, which made me unsure of what field to pursue. That changed when a friend offered me some advice: "Don’t just focus on what you’re good at, but on what you’re passionate about. This is where your true path lies. ”My friend’s advice got me thinking about the moments in my life when I felt most alive. I remembered afternoons spent with my sister, improvising news broadcasts on an old video camera, editing birthday videos for friends and using my cousin’s camera during family trips. It hit me then—I was fascinated by how a moment could be captured in a single image and all these little experiences, hobbies I enjoyed so much without a second thought, were actually pieces of a puzzle that were finally coming together. Without even realizing it, communications and digital media had been the path I was meant to follow all along. With some luck and hard work, I eventually... --- ### Taking on the Big Apple at NYC Immersion Week > NYC Immersion Week took IE Business School to New York City to meet top experts and tour the NYSE, the United Nations and Google - Published: 2024-10-04 - Modified: 2024-10-04 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/taking-on-the-big-apple-at-nyc-immersion-week/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Bachelor in Business Administration, Google, New York Office, NYC Immersion Week - Tags: English Discover how IE students unlocked exclusive access to NYC’s top companies—meeting industry leaders at Google, the UN, and the NYSE—while gaining insight into real-world challenges. Stepping into the real world after college can feel overwhelming. Many graduates know the ins and outs of business, law or design but lack the practical knowledge needed to thrive—how to ace an interview, send a professional email, or navigate a work environment that’s constantly changing. Research shows that blending academic learning with hands-on experiences and exposure to real-world scenarios helps students bridge the gap between theory and practical application. This approach sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills while building adaptability—essential for adjusting plans and strategies as projects evolve. It also gives students a clearer understanding of whether they’re truly suited for the industry they’re interested in pursuing. NYC Immersion Week: A packed first day At IE University our students learn from experts and observe the working world in action before plunging into it. Recently, IE Business School students participated in NYC Immersion Week. This thrilling one-week program packed a punch with guided tours and meetings with over 20 key representatives from major American and Spanish companies in business, banking and international relations. NYC Immersion Week was organized by IE University’s New York Office and the Spain-US Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit American institution that represents companies wanting to establish business relationships between Spain and the United States. The Chamber has been facilitating access to the US job market for young internationals for 20 years. Diplomatic encounters at the United Nations First stop: the United Nations Headquarters—where international cooperation takes center stage. Students were awe-struck as they realized they were... --- ### Ana Di Filippo: Leading change through pro bono work > Discover how pro bono work can empower both marginalized communities and the young lawyers that serve them. - Published: 2024-10-02 - Modified: 2024-10-15 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ana-di-filippo-leading-change-through-pro-bono-work/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Fundación Pro Bono España, Legal Clinic, Pro bono internship, Pro bono work, Student Stories, Talent & Careers - Tags: English Discover how IE Law students like Ana Emilia Di Filippo use pro bono work to bridge the justice gap. Gaining experience at top firms like Clifford Chance, they’re not only helping vulnerable communities but also building a strong foundation for their legal careers. Pro bono work goes beyond offering free legal advice—it's a way to promote a fairer and more equitable society. It bridges the gap between those in need of legal help and the resources they lack, helping vulnerable communities, but also the lawyers who serve them. In 2023, pro bono work saw a 15% rise in activity compared to 2021, driven by pressing social issues like migrant rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy and criminal justice reform. According to The Law Society, lawyers often start voluntary legal services at a young age. Often, at their university law clinic or internships. That’s the case for Ana Emilia Di Filippo, an Argentinian-Italian student at IE Law School who landed an internship at Clifford Chance and Fundación Pro Bono España. What’s it like to do pro bono? Ana is a fourth-year Bachelor of Laws (LL. B. ) student who embodies the potential of young lawyers to make a real difference. Her internships at Clifford Chance and Fundación Pro Bono España taught her the inner workings of pro bono work. She realized it can not only shape the futures of the marginalized but also contribute to the personal and professional growth of young legal professionals. For the young law student, pro bono work isn’t just about helping people—it's about creating lasting change. Fundación Pro Bono España, where Ana interned, provides legal advice to businesses, universities and NGOs, helping them address existing and potential future challenges. This work goes beyond crisis management; it’s about strategic solutions that strengthen organizations... --- ### AI and the future of work: A threat or an opportunity? > Is AI automation a threat to your career or an opportunity for growth? Find out about AI's impact on the future of work, AI jobs and more. - Published: 2024-09-30 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ai-and-the-future-of-work-threat-or-opportunity/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: AI and the future of work, AI automation, AI jobs, AI|Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence|Bachelor in Data and Business Analytics|IE Robotics & AI Club|Madrid|Robotics Club & AI Lab, man loosing job to AI - Tags: English Is AI automation a threat to your career or an opportunity for growth? Find out about AI's impact on the future job market, most coveted skills and more. As AI continues to transform our lives— from helping us learn new skills and get free legal advice to finding local deals—it's safe to say that businesses are also exploring uses for this technology. The impact of AI on the corporate world is undeniable, and the worry that “AI will take our jobs” is similar to the one that accompanied the rise of the internet in the early 2000s. Although the internet did “replace” certain jobs, it ultimately created new industries and opened up opportunities that didn’t exist before. The truth about AI and the future of work is just as complex. The rise of AI in the corporate world Recent data from the McKinsey Global Survey shows a significant rise in AI usage amongst organizations. The percentage of companies using AI has jumped from a steady 50% over the last five years to 72% in the last year. This is proof that its influence on business operations is growing rapidly. The 2024 AI Index Report from Stanford University also empathizes that AI is helping to improve productivity and the quality of work by allowing tasks to be completed more quickly. As businesses discover new ways to use AI, it brings both big opportunities and challenges. While the technology promises to reshape industries and boost productivity, it also raises important questions about its role in the job market. Let's take a look at how AI might affect the future of work and why it's important to adapt to these changes. AI... --- ### Designing your life: How interior designers shape more than just spaces > IE University's Bachelor in Design: Interior Design track prepares future interior designers with the skills and business know-how to succeed - Published: 2024-09-25 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/designing-your-life-how-interior-designers-shape-more-than-just-spaces/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Design: Interior Design, IE School of Architecture & Design, interior design, interior designers - Tags: English Interior design shapes more than just spaces—it influences how we live, work and feel. Discover how IE University’s new Bachelor in Design: Interior Design track prepares students to transform environments with sustainability, entrepreneurship and future-focused design. Though we may not always realize it, design has been a central part of human life for centuries. As Belén Llamas, a member of the Contemporary Association of Arts and Crafts and founder of Atelier-B in Geneva, pointed out at Hay Festival 2024, “Design and craftsmanship are part of our culture. We wouldn’t be here today if someone hadn’t learned and practiced the skill of carving stone. The building we’re standing in wouldn’t exist. " And she’s right. Every space we enter has been thoughtfully designed. Architects shape the buildings we inhabit, garden and landscape designers imagine the parks we stroll through, and interior designers create our most personal environments, ensuring our living spaces feel like home. According to the EPA, the average person spends around 90% of their time indoors. This highlights just how important the interiors of our homes and workplaces are. Interior design goes far beyond picking furniture or choosing wall colors—it has a direct impact on our mental well-being. So, what about you? Do you dream of becoming an interior designer, using your taste and creativity to help people live more comfortably and enjoy their surroundings to the fullest? How to become an interior designer Modern interior designers need to have an understanding of human needs and emotions, while staying on top of new trends and innovations in the field. It’s not just about mastering design concepts; successful designers also need business acumen to thrive in a competitive industry. The first step is choosing the right... --- ### Inside IE University’s Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design track > IE University's Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design track is a blend of creativity and business skills that guarantee student's success. - Published: 2024-09-24 - Modified: 2024-10-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/inside-ie-universitys-bachelor-in-design-comprehensive-design/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design, Careers in design, Creative Campus, FabLab, IE School of Architecture & Design, science-based design - Tags: English Passion, skill and innovation come together in IE University’s new Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design track, which helps ambitious creatives turn modern problems into sustainable solutions. Design has always played a vital role in society, influencing how we interact with different products, services and environments. But in today’s fast-paced world, designers must go beyond creativity—they need to have business savvy in order to develop innovative solutions that last. It’s a tricky balance, but one that’s crucial for success in the field. That’s why IE School of Architecture & Design has launched three new tracks within the Bachelor in Design that allow students to dive into their specific interests from day one. Whether it’s comprehensive design, interior design, or video game design and virtual environments, each track nurtures both creative passion and technical know-how. A look inside the new Comprehensive Design track How do you design a product or service that changes the way people live? In a crowded digital world, how do you grab attention and turn it into real value? These are the kinds of questions that the Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design track aims to answer through its rigorous, project-based approach.   This program helps students become problem-solvers who understand the power of design thinking and human-centered solutions. It prepares students to tackle real-world challenges through a combination of design history and science-based design principles. What makes this track so special?   A focus on business, that aims to help students develop management skills and an entrepreneurial spirit, ensuring a long career in the industry. Access to cutting-edge spaces like the FabLab, where students can experiment, explore ideas and develop innovative projects.   A... --- ### How to become a video game designer: IE University’s new Videogame Design & Virtual Environments track > Calling all future game designers! IE University presents its new Bachelor in Video Game Design & Virtual Environments. - Published: 2024-09-23 - Modified: 2024-10-17 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/how-to-become-a-video-game-designer-ie-universitys-new-bachelor/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Videogame Design & Virtual Environments, IE School of Architecture & Design, storytelling, UX design, video game design, video game designer, virtual environments - Tags: English IE University is expanding its offering within the Bachelor in Design with three new innovative tracks: Comprehensive Design, Interior Design, and Videogame Design & Virtual Environments. Video games are no longer just for entertainment—they’re becoming useful tools in education, healthcare and corporate environments. Recognizing the demands of the digital age, IE University is proud to introduce the Bachelor in Design: Video game Design & Virtual Environments. The perfect degree for students eager to explore all aspects of game design, from creating virtual worlds to developing memorable characters. First steps: choosing a degree in video game design Video game design goes far beyond coding—it's about turning your vision into a lasting digital experience. Learning how to become a video game designer requires a modern, forward-thinking approach and a habit of paying careful attention to new trends. Our four-year program prepares our students with the necessary skills to stand out in this growing field. Taught by industry experts, our curriculum blends design principles with practical projects and opportunities to collaborate with professionals. This approach ensures students gain not just theoretical knowledge, but hands-on experience. With classes split between Segovia and Madrid, students will master virtual reality, augmented reality, and immersive storytelling. They'll gain skills in using new technologies, balancing gameplay, and crafting engaging stories. As a result, graduates will be well-prepared to lead in the digital revolution, contributing to the gaming industry with innovative, sustainable, and responsible technology. The program also fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, equipping students to confidently enter the industry and share their ideas. What type of game designer will I be? Game design is a very broad field. That's why this degree allows students to... --- ### Orientation Week 2024: Getting to know IE University in style > Discover the highlights of IE University’s Orientation Week 2024, where new students began their journey with exciting activities and events. - Published: 2024-09-20 - Modified: 2024-09-20 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/orientation-week-2024-getting-to-know-ie-university-in-style/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: athletic center, Campus Life, club fair, creativity center, orientation week 2024 - Tags: English IE University's Orientation Week was a blast this year! From scavenger hunts to fun mixers, students quickly got acquainted with campus life and kicked off an unforgettable college experience. The first day of college has finally arrived. Bright eyes and eager faces filled the room as new students poured into the auditorium for the start of Orientation Week. You could feel the mix of excitement, nerves and anticipation as they prepared to begin their journey at IE University. "We are fully convinced that each of you brings something unique to contribute to your generation," said Salvador Carmona, Rector of IE University, during his welcome speech. And he's right. The students who successfully passed the admissions process are part of a diverse and talented group, ready to see their dreams take flight at their new university. Icebreakers and scavenger hunts: orientation week adventures Following the opening ceremony, students from various programs gathered for drinks and conversation in the campus lounge. Many of them participated in a scavenger hunt that took them through various locations around campus, where they completed quizzes to get a deeper understanding of how their new school operates. The hunt took place simultaneously on the Segovia and Madrid campuses, leading students to spots like the IE Library in Segovia and the Librarian’s Office in the IE Tower, where they solved clues that taught them about university resources. After workshops, icebreaker activities and Q&A sessions with fourth-years, the new students attended the Club Fair—the perfect place to explore student-led clubs that match their interests and get involved in campus life. Events that bring campus to life Orientation Week was just the beginning. A whirlwind of events across both... --- ### What’s it like working for TikTok? Alexandra’s summer internship > Alexandra spent her summer working for TikTok. Hear all about the experience and the challenges she faced at het TikTok internship. - Published: 2024-09-18 - Modified: 2024-10-15 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/whats-it-like-working-for-tiktok-alexandras-summer-internship/ - Categories: Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Business Administration, Bachelor of Laws, e-commerce, summer intern, tiktok internship, working for tiktok - Tags: English Alexandra spent her summer interning for TikTok. Read all about her journey, the lessons she learned and the challenges she faced during her time at one of the world's leading tech companies. Have you ever wondered what working for TikTok is like, not as an influencer, but behind the scenes at their offices? Alexandra Martínez, a student currently pursuing a Dual Degree Bachelor in Business Administration & Laws at IE University, spent her summer interning at TikTok’s headquarters in Madrid. Here’s a look inside her experience at the tech giant’s fast-paced office. Tell us a bit about your TikTok internship. What was your role? I was a summer intern at TikTok's Madrid office, as a part of the Global E-Commerce team. My job there was really diverse, covering a range of projects across different areas. I had the privilege of working alongside a talented and supportive team on projects that aligned with my interests and areas of expertise. A big part of my work was focused on helping TikTok strengthen its position in digital advertising and ensuring that the clients achieved their goals. This involved identifying potential partnerships for companies and content creators, supporting emerging creators’ growth, and connecting them with the right brands for strategic ad campaigns. Each project came with its own challenges, of course, but that's exactly what made this experience so rewarding. What kinds of projects have you been involved in? TikTok has become the leading entertainment platform that it is today by continuously innovating in digital content and e-commerce, and by making it easy for people to share their ideas. This dynamic environment and management style allowed me to contribute to several exciting initiatives. For example, I... --- ### Next-generation digital media pioneers: inside IE University's market-driven communication program > Creativity and business take center stage in the Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media at IE University. - Published: 2024-09-03 - Modified: 2024-09-03 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/next-generation-digital-media-pioneers-inside-ie-universitys-market-driven-communication-program/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU - Tags: Bachelor in Communication and Digital Media, media lab - Tags: English Creativity and business take center stage in the Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media at IE University. Led by Academic Director Iona de Macedo, this undergraduate program is built around a hands-on, market-driven approach to education. What defines this degree is how it integrates applicable industry needs into the curriculum. The program naturally evolves alongside new trends and patterns to ensure students stay at the industry forefront. The signature market-driven approach ensures that graduates leave IE University capable of satisfying real-world demands. Regular consultations with industry leaders and adaptation of course material reinforce such methodology. This way, curriculums willingly change to reflect the latest technological advancements and communication strategies. What is the Bachelor in Communication & Digital Media? Since its founding, the Bachelor in Communications & Digital Media has been turning students into industry experts. IE University launched this program to meet the market demands in the communications industry and works continuously with our industry partners to keep it up-to-date. Over the years, the degree has unified the creative and business worlds by teaching the most in-demand subjects to students. These include branding, marketing, advertising, storytelling, content production and digital media management. We also train students in cutting-edge new technologies to ensure they are ready to thrive in tomorrow’s digital world. Who is this program for? Anyone passionate about the intersection of communication, technology and business thrive in the Bachelor in Communications & Digital Media. Naturally curious and adaptable students are ideal candidates. The program welcomes creative minds with an international outlook, eager to engage with global audiences. Qualities and skills that will be valuable for the program include critical and strategic thinking abilities, strong organizational skills, diligence and an eye for detail. Prospective students should... --- ### Ana Ocáriz’s internship journey | Stepping Up > Ana Ocáriz at IE University applies her global experience and classroom skills as a Software Developer Intern at EY wavespace Madrid. - Published: 2024-09-02 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ana-ocarizs-internship-journey/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, Others - Tags: dual degree in business administration & data and business analytics, Internship, Student Stories, Talent & Careers, technology - Tags: English At IE University, we’re dedicated to our hands-on approach to education. We help students find internships in leading companies, allowing them to gain valuable practical experience in the world of work. One student, Ana Ocáriz, is putting her newly acquired skills to the test in her internship at EY wavespace. Originally from Madrid, Ana Ocáriz has had a bit of international experience. She’s lived in Libya, Venezuela and Brazil, which played a crucial role in her choice of IE University. “The international environment made me feel right at home,” she says. Currently studying the Dual Degree in Business Administration & Data and Business Analytics, Ana landed a role as a Software Developer Intern at EY wavespace Madrid, where she uses the skills she’s learning in the classroom to tackle her daily responsibilities. The Dual Degree in Business Administration & Data and Business Analytics is designed to prepare students to understand and analyze data for corporate growth. Imparting skills in the business and data fields, students gain a comprehensive skill set that opens doors to various career options. These very skills made Ana stand out from other candidates during the competitive selection process. Skills for the ideal software developer candidate Álvaro Cid, Senior Manager at EY wavespace Data and AI Centre of Excellence, saw a lot of positive qualities in Ana. “She’s motivated, proactive and has knowledge of both the business and technology sides of our job. ” In examining the candidate pool, Álvaro explains that the main quality their hiring managers consider is an up-to-date skill set. “When hiring interns from IE University, we look at their experience and knowledge. We’re also glad to have people from diverse backgrounds. ” Ana checked all the boxes. EY wavespace Madrid is at the heart of the data and AI wave, exposing Ana... --- ### IE Robotics & AI Club, where innovation and exploration meet - Published: 2024-08-30 - Modified: 2024-08-30 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/ie-robotics-ai-club-where-innovation-and-exploration-meet/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, Innovation & Creativity - Tags: Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Madrid, Robotics Club, Robotics Club & AI Lab - Tags: English Since its launch, the IE Robotics & AI Club has become a space for connection and collaboration, inspiring the creation of several cutting-edge projects. Every day, new ideas and innovations develop and grow at IE University’s groundbreaking Robotics & AI Lab. Besides providing a space where like-minded innovators can leverage the latest STEM resources and expertise to bring their ideas to life, the Lab enables the practical learning and hands-on skills that typify our approach to education. Fostering productivity and connection The Robotics & AI Lab provides the means for students in STEM-related programs to apply what they’re learning to real projects. However, learners from any program at IE University are welcome to get involved. Most projects at the Lab are driven by multidisciplinary collaboration, and participants bring their varying specialisms to the table to advance common goals. It’s probably no surprise that many project participants are active members of the IE Robotics & AI Club, one of the hundreds of student-run organizations within the IE Community. The Lab, on the fifth floor of our iconic IE Tower in Madrid, has become something of a home for the Club—and the birthplace of various innovative projects: IE Robotics & AI Club website The Club’s website is one of the projects developed in the space. Five Bachelor in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence students conceived the site to bring the Club, and the Lab, to broader attention. Developing the website from scratch was challenging, but the project team gained advanced skills—such as project management and front-end design—that will help them stand out. They plan to improve the website in the future by integrating a virtual assistant... --- ### Connecting bright minds and leading companies in the Young Corporate Program > The Young Corporate Program is is about building tomorrow’s leaders, connecting our brightest and most ambitious bachelor’s degree students directly with leading organizations in various sectors. - Published: 2024-08-21 - Modified: 2024-08-21 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/connecting-bright-minds-and-leading-companies-in-the-young-corporate-program/ - Categories: IEU Experience - Tags: Madrid, Segovia, Talent & Careers - Tags: English The Young Corporate Program is is about building tomorrow’s leaders, connecting our brightest and most ambitious bachelor’s degree students directly with leading organizations in various sectors. 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 experienceIn 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 perfectionistLuis is studying the Dual Degree in Business Administration & International Relations. Describing himself as “restless, productive and creative,” he’s a highly... --- ### New academic programs offer multiple pathways to success  > These innovative additions to our undergraduate programs cement our thought leadership in design, innovation, business and public policy. - Published: 2024-08-02 - Modified: 2024-08-02 - URL: https://drivinginnovation.ie.edu/new-academic-programs-offer-multiple-pathways-to-success/ - Categories: #GOINGTOIEU, Learning & Academics - Tags: Bachelor in Design, Bachelor in Political Science, Dual Degree in Business Administration + Political Science, Madrid, Segovia - Tags: English At IE University, we regularly consult industry leaders and top professionals to identify academic solutions that close organizational gaps. This process allows us to offer cutting-edge programs that provide you with the most in-demand skills. Although we are always innovating and evolving here at IE University, our commitment to student success remains constant. We’re determined to provide a quality education that stays in step with changing trends in the professional landscape. That’s why we’re excited to share our new program offerings. These innovative additions to our undergraduate programs cement our thought leadership in design, innovation, business and public policy. Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design Find creative solutions  The Bachelor in Design: Comprehensive Design aims to prepare ambitious professionals to tackle real-world challenges. It’s built on our practical approach to learning as well as our faculty’s world-class expertise and research. According to Academic Director Clara Llamas, the program explores the “transformative potential of human creativity” to cultivate a “just and more beautiful world. ” During the first two years in Segovia, you’ll gain an introduction to the design world and dive into creative methodologies, among other foundational topics. You’ll study in Madrid for the last two and continue refining your design skills and business acumen. This period also provides opportunities to take personalized electives and deepen your knowledge of materials, creative coding and different tech tools.   The four-year curriculum is hands-on and forward-thinking, highlighting technologies and trends that will define design in the digital age. At the same time, you’ll benefit from our dynamic global network, connecting with peers and industry leaders who can help your career grow.   Bachelor in Design: Interior Design Make spaces work with daily life Are you interested in redefining... --- ---