Álvaro González
I’m Álvaro González and I’m from Spain. Before joining the Global Master in Real Estate Development at IE University, I studied architecture in Madrid, then turned my attention to completing an MBA. However, I quickly changed my mind. I believe that knowledge is a tangible asset, and I was worried about losing my previous knowledge and experience in architecture by choosing an MBA. I shifted my focus and found IE University, which quickly became my top choice. Once I found the Global Master in Real Estate Development, it felt like the perfect fit—somewhere I could expand on my architecture expertise and broaden my career opportunities.
"In architecture, you tend to focus on the design or construction side and don’t get the whole picture. IE University’s Global Master in Real Estate Development equipped me with a broader perspective."
Prior to joining the program at IE University, and after completing an undergraduate degree in architecture, Alvaro Gonzalez worked for a year in Madrid. However, during this time, he realized that what he really wanted was to grow professionally in an international environment. So, he made the decision to move to London and work for Benoy for three years, mainly in retail development. This allowed him to apply his knowledge and skills to international projects, which has always been his main goal. He then joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and worked on the construction team of Nine Elms Square, which offered him a totally different perspective of the architecture world, as he got to work on-site.
Reflecting on the Global Master in Real Estate Development, Alvaro says that the blended format means you can take the knowledge you learn in class and directly apply it to real-world professional situations. Understanding all the moving parts that go into creating a building and how many people are involved in the process leaves students with a broader perspective, giving a complete and rounded education that builds on their previous architecture experience.
The time he spent in Mexico during the program—which at first he was hesitant about—ended up being an amazing opportunity. There, he experienced a new city and culture, while learning from top professionals, including Mexican architect José Castillo. Visiting new developments in Mexico opened his eyes to experiences that were totally different from anything he was used to.
While at IE University and during his time in the program, Alvaro also got to work on his networking skills, not only with his peers and professors, but with global, well-established corporations. Some of these international organizations include Hines, CBRE, Union Investment and Amazon, to name just a few.
“Learning from students and professors alike with diverse experiences and backgrounds allows you to become more open-minded and take advantage of networking opportunities.”
When asked to describe the program in one word, Alvaro said there was no single word that could be used to encompass his entire experience, but if he had to pick one, it would be “blended.” The blend of professional experiences, the expertise of the professors, and the diversity of the classroom all come together to make the Global Master in Real Estate what it is.
Now, Alvaro is back in Madrid, working as the Co-founder and Director of Infinity Dimensions S.L. We wish him the best of luck with his venture!
