My name’s Almudena and I’m from Madrid. After studying Economics at a British School in Spain, I was really excited by the chance to continue exploring the field at IE University. The combination of high-quality teaching and the program’s practical focus has made me sure that this is the best first step on my professional ladder. I’m really enjoying the chance to meet people from all walks of life and make the most of the campus experience in Segovia.
Why did you choose to study at IE University?
I took my IGCSEs and A-levels in English at a British school and I really wanted to continue my university studies in English if possible. Economics was a subject that I loved studying at school, so when I heard about the Dual Degree in Economics and International Relations at IE University I was intrigued. The fact that it was the only place in Spain offering a degree in English made it an easy decision.
I’d heard that the Segovia campus had a real international atmosphere and reputation for practical and dynamic teaching and that Segovia itself was a beautiful, lively city. Exciting as it all was, the decision to move to Segovia was a big one and perhaps the most challenging thing I’ve ever done, but it’s definitely been the right choice. In fact, I’d say it’s the best decision I’ve ever made.
Tell us about your extracurricular experience at IE University.
Segovia is a really beautiful place to study. The city has so much history and I’ve really enjoyed discovering some of its fascinating traditions and exploring the different areas in the city center and the surrounding towns and villages. There are lots of things to do throughout the year and the countryside around Segovia is stunning. One of my favorite things to do is to explore the city, find new places to visit and enjoy the beautiful views and stunning sunsets.
Another great reason to study in Segovia is that it really is a perfect size—small enough that you feel at home but big enough that there’s always something to do. The size of the city also means it’s easy to make friends. That’s one thing that’s been great about my time at IE University. There’s a huge variety of people and such a mix of cultures and languages. Making lasting friendships takes time and patience but everyone at IE University is so friendly and open that it’s been easy. In my free time, I like going out with my new friends and I love listening to music—I always have music playing in the background no matter what I’m doing.
How has IE University helped you with personal and professional experiences?
For me, one of the highlights of studying at IE University has been the opportunity to expand my professional experience. I’ve been able to take my time to choose options that really interest me. The IEU Labs are great because they give you insight into an internship and let you grow professionally at your own pace. I’m really excited about the Econ DataLab that I’m starting in the second semester. These Labs are great because you can choose the options that best align with your professional focus.
The other thing is the way that IE University shapes its students in terms of personal development. Studying at IE University pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow personally and develop as an adult. As well as learning from people from all over the world, I’ve become more open-minded and have made lifelong friends. IE University is like the first step on your professional ladder and you choose your own pace.
What about the future—what path do you want to take?
Ever since I was little, I’ve had a dream of owning my own record label. Music is a huge part of my life, I listen to all kinds of music all the time, and I would love to make music my career. However, I am open to other possibilities. I’ve always enjoyed economics and business studies and would like to continue with what I have learned about economics during my degree at IE University.
I would be interested in working as a consultant or in some other field of economics, perhaps as an econometrics analyst. I believe I still have plenty of time to discover more about myself and hone in on what I would like to do professionally in the future. I think the Dual Degree in Economics and International Relations will help me do that.